Have you thought of installing a new driveway or parkway but you’re on a budget? Well, then asphalt pavement may be a great material for you!
Asphalt as your Pavement
Stones, sand, and liquid asphalt cement are combined to create asphalt pavement. To achieve the ideal ratio and smoothness, these ingredients are warmed and precisely combined. When it is still hot, it is applied to a constructed foundation or subgrade. Asphalt pavement is among the budget-friendly pavements available on the market and is one of the fastest to install. Despite its budget-friendly price and fast installation, it still provides high-quality paving.
But just like other things, there are pros and cons; all you have to do is weigh whether or not you can deal with its cons.
So, we’re going to discuss its pros and cons.
Pros
Cost
As we’ve mentioned, asphalt is among the cheapest paving materials on the market. Compared to other materials like concrete, asphalt material is about $2 to $5 cheaper per square foot, depending on your location.
Fast Installation
Another advantage of asphalt pavement is its fast installation time. When the materials that make asphalt are properly combined and heated, they are poured into a constructed base or subgrade. Once it is poured, it’ll most probably take 24 hours for it to dry and solidify, then you’ll be able to drive or park on your pavement already. Easy-peasy, right?
Flexibility
Flexibility is also a pro of asphalt pavement. Asphalt is designed to expand and shrink. This means that asphalt is less likely to be impacted by sudden and extreme changes in temperature, pressure, and even surface movement, making it less likely to experience major damage (unless you do not properly take care of the pavement).
Easier and Cheaper Maintenance
Compared to other paving materials, asphalt is a lot easier to maintain. Moreover, its maintenance is also a lot cheaper.
When you get damages on the asphalt pavement, you can easily apply a seal coating or repair any cracks much easier.
Durability
Since asphalt pavement is very flexible, it’s much more durable against Mother Nature’s sudden changes in weather. This means that asphalt can withstand even the harshest weather conditions.
Eco-Friendly
The final pro of asphalt is that it’s recyclable. Its lifespan is unlimited, so you can use it continuously. All of the asphalt that has been dug up during road repairs can be reused again for resealing.
Cons
Amount of Maintenance
Maintenance for asphalt-paved pavements is typically greater than for other paving materials. As an example, seal coating on asphalt needs to be done every three years. Even though the frequency of maintenance is a drawback, it is simpler to perform on asphalt than on other materials.
Lifespan
Compared to other paving materials, asphalt doesn’t last very long. Asphalt pavement typically only lasts for 25 years. Although it can be prolonged if taken care of properly with regular maintenance.
Final Thoughts
Asphalt is a great material that can be used as pavement. As long as you know how to properly take care of your asphalt and do not abuse it, then your pavement is going to last a long time.