Wondering whether to choose a concrete driveway or asphalt driveway for your home? The initial price for asphalt might make it seem like a better deal, but it often comes with problems over the long term.
A concrete driveway is often better because it has a longer lifespan, more durability, and a stronger return on investment.
At Rea & Sons Cement, our concrete driveway contractors are the best choice to install a new driveway for your Farmington Hills, MI, home. Contact us today to discuss your concrete driveway construction project.
Is a Concrete Driveway a Better Long-Term Investment Than Asphalt?
Yes, a concrete driveway is a better long-term investment than asphalt. Asphalt is often cheaper upfront, but more expensive when you factor in maintenance costs over the driveway’s lifespan. Concrete driveways have a better cost of ownership, more durability and easier maintenance. They’re typically better than asphalt for a few reasons:
Longer Lifespan
A more accurate measure of a driveway’s value is its cost per year, rather than its upfront installation cost.
Asphalt has a cheaper initial cost because the material is cheaper and it needs a less intensive preparation process. However, asphalt typically lasts 15 to 20 years before it requires replacement. It also requires annual maintenance, including resealing every three to five years.
Keeping up with regular sealant application is important for preventing oxidation, cracking, and water damage.
Concrete driveways, on the other hand, can last as long as 30 to 40 years with proper maintenance. Concrete also does a better job of withstanding damage and usually requires less maintenance compared to asphalt.
Stronger Durability
The climate in Farmington Hills and Michigan more broadly make durability a key factor when choosing your driveway material. Whatever material you choose must be able to withstand freeze-thaw cycles.
Asphalt is known for softening during intense summer heat and becoming brittle in sub-zero winter temperatures. As it goes through multiple freeze-thaw cycles, it can crack and become warped.
A high-quality concrete driveway, on the other hand, often uses a cement mixture that contains air entrainment. This is a chemical additive that creates microscopic air bubbles that relieve internal pressure created from freezing water. Over time, this can reduce structural cracking and damage.
Financial Value
It’s also important to think about the financial and aesthetic value of your chosen driveway material. The material you choose can impact the curb appeal and financial value of your home as a whole.
A concrete driveway is a great choice for creating a clean, well-maintained appearance. It’s also versatile, and can be decorated with decorative stamping, integral coloring, or exposed aggregate finish.
These customization options ensure your driveway matches the aesthetics of your home and has a stronger return on investment.
Keep in mind that a new concrete driveway is often factored in by appraisers and potential homebuyers. Buyers often look for a driveway that is easy to maintain and will last for decades. For this reason, a concrete driveway is often a preferred choice compared to asphalt.
Contact Our Concrete Driveway Specialists at Rea and Sons
Ready to find a concrete driveway contractor near you in Farmington Hills, MI? At Rea and Son Cement, we have over 49 years of experience as professional concrete contractors serving communities across Metro Detroit.
Based in Livonia, our family-owned company prioritizes expert craftsmanship. We provide a quality guarantee and warranty with all our work, so you can be confident it stands the test of time.
In addition, we make sure all our concrete work is done at a fair price. We believe quality work shouldn’t break the bank.
Ready to get your concrete driveway installed? Call (734) 425-7966 or contact us online to discuss your project.