Don’t know whether or not to use concrete as your new pavement? Well, you’re in the right place!
Today, we are going to weigh the pros and cons of using concrete pavement for your driveway.
Concrete Pavement
One of the most widely used pavement materials worldwide is concrete. Concrete paving has a timeless look that makes it perfect for almost any outside project you can think of, from driveways to roads. However, just like any other pavement material, concrete does have its disadvantages. Consider these advantages and disadvantages of concrete paving before you decide whether or not it’s right for you.
Concrete Pros
Durable
Concrete is a very strong material that will most likely only get minimal damage over many years (but will still depend on how you take care of the pavement). Concrete maintains the appropriate structural qualities while resisting erosion, chemical damage, and weathering. It can frequently support big loads with no difficulty and is non-slip. Concrete is an incredibly durable material that will provide the best long-term value.
But keep in mind that depending on the exposure to the environment, different types of concrete will have varying degrees of durability.
Long Lifespan
Concrete, due to its durability and dependability, may last a home for 50 years or more with only minor maintenance and degreasing. Since you won’t need to replace it for a while, this will allow you to save money.
Low Maintenance
Concrete has a fairly low maintenance requirement. Concrete doesn’t actually need to be sealed in the same way that asphalt does. However, given that it will enhance the appearance and preserve the surface of concrete surfaces, many individuals opt to apply a seal coating to their concrete pavement.
Applying a degreaser to the concrete is another maintenance option aside from a seal coating. Although degreasers increase the cost of driveway maintenance, they are often necessary to remove chemical, oil, and gas marks that build up over time.
Concrete Cons
More Expensive
When you compare concrete to asphalt, concrete is a bit more expensive. Concrete prices range from $4 to $6 per square foot. Seal coatings, detailing, and staining raise the cost, which can range from $10.00 to $15.00 depending on where you live.
Moreover, installing concrete pavements is also much more expensive than using other pavement materials.
Harder to Repair
Although concrete is durable, it can still get damaged with cracks and potholes, especially if it is not repaired immediately. And when that happens, it becomes much harder and more expensive to repair. In the event that you notice a crack, get it repaired immediately to lessen the cost of repairs.
Not as Smooth
Lastly, driving on concrete is not as smooth as you might think. Texture is brushed into the surface to provide the road with enough traction to avoid slips. Although the texture can make your ride a bit bumpy, it is still kind of an advantage because it will prevent you or your automobile from slipping on the road, especially during the rainy or winter season.
Bottomline
Concrete is one of the best paving materials on the market, but of course, different people have different wants and needs in a pavement. So, we hope this helped you decide whether or not you should get a concrete pavement.