After a long day at work, a business trip, or even a day filled with fun pulling into your driveway can immediately bring a sense of relief. As you pull in, it is a visual reminder that you are finally home and that no matter how good or bad your day has been, it is now time to unwind and relax. Your driveway should reflect the beautiful transition from the outside world to your comfortable abode. For this to happen, though, you may be wondering, “What is the best material for my driveway?”
The Best Paving Solution
Prime Paving & Seal Coating are residential and commercial paving experts that serve NC’s triad, the foothills, and Charlotte Metro areas. We have worked with a variety of clients over the past 61 years, and we feel the best paving solution for almost every driveway is asphalt.
Benefits of Paving with Asphalt
There are several benefits of paving with asphalt, and we want to share them with you so you can make a confident decision in what material to pave your driveway with.
Gravel vs. Asphalt
While paving with asphalt is not the cheapest option available, it is also not the most expensive. The most affordable solution for your driveway would be to apply a layer of loose gravel, but this is a temporary fix and by no means permanent.
Loose gravel is often used as part of a roadbed as the base layer, but without anything to hold it in place, it can easily be washed away, especially during heavy rains.
Asphalt is a permanent solution that will not wash away during inclement weather but can also be used to help divert water into proper areas for drainage.
Concrete vs. Asphalt
Asphalt costs less than concrete, which is an immediate benefit for homeowners. In addition to the lower costs, asphalt is more flexible than concrete, which makes it less prone to cracking. This is important for areas that have colder temperatures in the winter months. Concrete is more prone to cracking, and fixing it is not easy.
Conversely, asphalt can be repaired if cracks appear and the ability to repair them will prolong the life of your driveway. If a crack happens in concrete, the only way to fix it is to remove the block altogether and pour a new area of concrete.
Asphalt also sets up faster than concrete does so you can use your driveway sooner!
Additional Benefits of Paving with Asphalt
Asphalt’s appearance is sleek, clean, and modern. It immediately boosts your home’s resale value and adds curb appeal. The dark black color of asphalt also hides stains, unlike concrete, which will show them. The dark hue is also beneficial during periods of ice and snow because it preserves heat; therefore, melting frozen precipitation faster than other forms of paving.
Furthermore, paving with asphalt ensures you will have a quality driveway of upwards to 20-35 years with proper care and maintenance. However, the maintenance of your driveway needs through sealcoating is only required every 3-5 years.
As we stated before, repairing asphalt is easier than other methods, but there is another excellent thing about asphalt you may not know about. Did you know that if you feel the top layer of your pavement is looking shabby, it can be removed and a new coating applied? You can give your driveway a facelift at a fraction of the initial cost! Even if you buy a new home that has a paved driveway, you don’t have to remove what is there; you can work with whatever already exists. This gives the potential to save home buyers a lot of money!
However, when you do pave your driveway, be sure to hire a reputable contractor who is experienced. Not all paving companies are the same or have the proper equipment to handle all situations. Prime Paving & Sealcoating has been in business for over 61 years and is family owned and operated. If you are looking for a trustworthy contractor to help you achieve a driveway that is functional and beautiful, contact us today for a free estimate.
