Asphalt or concrete Driveway? Pros and Cons

A driveway is an essential part of any home. When it comes to choosing the right material, you have two main options: asphalt and concrete. Groupe Bellemare’s experts have worked on countless projects of this kind, and have seen the pros and cons of each material.

Here are the pros and cons of asphalt and concrete driveways. You’ll be able to make the best decision for your needs and preferences.

Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt driveways are composed of a mixture of aggregates and bitumen, a sticky, black, highly viscous liquid that acts as a binder. Here’s everything you need to know about them.

Pros of an Asphalt Driveway

• Cost-Effective: Asphalt is generally less expensive than concrete, making it a popular choice for homeowners who prefer an economical option.
• Easy Maintenance: Asphalt driveways require relatively little maintenance. Periodic sealing is recommended to prevent cracks and potholes.
• Quick installation: Asphalt driveways can be installed very quickly, usually within a few days. This is ideal for homeowners with tight deadlines.
• Weatherproof: Asphalt is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, making it an excellent choice for Quebec’s harsh winters. Heavy snowfall, ice and freezing temperatures can damage less durable materials.

Cons of an Asphalt Driveway

• Limited Colour Options: Unlike concrete, asphalt comes in just one colour: black.
• Shorter lifespan: Although asphalt driveways can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance, they generally have a shorter lifespan than concrete driveways.
• Sensitive to Oil and Gas Stains: Asphalt is more porous than concrete, making it susceptible to oil and gas stains, which can be difficult to remove.
• Quebec Winter: Frequent freeze-thaw cycles can cause water to seep into the asphalt, creating cracks and potholes over time. It’s important to seal your asphalt driveway regularly to avoid these problems.
• Not too Eco-friendly Choice: Although asphalt is an economical option for driveways, it’s not the most environmentally friendly choice. Asphalt production requires fossil fuels and emits greenhouse gases, which can contribute to climate change.

Concrete Driveway

Concrete driveways are made from a mixture of cement, water and aggregates such as gravel and sand. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of this material.

Pros of a Concrete Driveway

• Aesthetics: Concrete driveways offer a range of colour and design options, making them an excellent choice for homeowners looking to add a unique touch to their property. They are also available in a variety of finishes, such as stamped or stained patterns that mimic the appearance of natural stone or brick.
• Durable: Concrete is incredibly durable, lasting up to 30 years or more with proper maintenance. It stands up well to Quebec winters.
• Easy to Clean: Unlike asphalt, concrete is less porous and less susceptible to stains, making it easier to clean and maintain. A high-pressure cleaner and a mild detergent will do the job just fine.
• Increased Home Value: Concrete driveways can increase the value of your home, making them a good long-term investment.
• Environmentally Friendly: Concrete is a sustainable, environmentally-friendly building material made from natural materials such as sand, gravel and cement.

Cons of a Concrete Driveway

• Higher Cost: Concrete is generally more expensive than asphalt, which can be an important factor for homeowners on a tight budget.
• Longer Installation Time: Concrete driveways take longer to install than asphalt driveways.
• Subject to Cracking: Although concrete is durable, it may be subject to cracking over time, particularly in areas subject to extreme weather fluctuations.

How to Make a Choice?

The choice between an asphalt or concrete driveway depends on your personal preferences, your budget and the specific needs of your property. Both options have their unique pros and cons, so it’s important to weigh them carefully before making a decision. 

Whether you choose asphalt or concrete, investing in a high-quality driveway can enhance your home’s exterior appeal and increase its value for years to come!

For all your concrete needs and questions, contact our experts!

Specialized Services to Facilitate your Driveway Projects

Stone Slinger Rental

For precise work that wastes no material, consider using a stone slinger. Groupe Bellemare makes its specialized equipment available for rental. Contact us for more details.

Concrete Mixer Rental

Whatever the size of your project, Groupe Bellemare has a variety of concrete mixers to meet your needs. Nos opérateurs qualifiés sont en mesure de vous aider à trouver le bon équipement. 

Construction Waste Container Rental

Do you need a container to dispose of construction waste? Discover our container rental service and its positive impact on the environment! Contents go directly to our sorting center for maximum recycling and repurposing.

Concrete Calculator

For the best quality concrete, choose Bellemare concrete! Use our concrete calculator to find out the exact quantity of concrete required for your project.

How to maintain your driveway?

Here are expert tips for maintaining asphalt and concrete driveways to preserve their durability and appearance over time.

Winter-specific protection

Regular Snow Removal: During winter, regularly clearing snow from your driveway is essential to prevent excessive accumulation. Too much snow and ice can put pressure on the surface, leading to damage!

Using Proper De-Icers and Anti-Slip Products: When de-icing, be sure to use products specifically designed for concrete or asphalt surfaces. Some chemicals can cause deterioration over time.

Check out Groupe Bellemare’s Nordic products and learn how to use them!

Preventive Sealing: Before winter begins, consider sealing your asphalt or concrete driveway to protect it from water infiltration. A high-quality sealant can extend the lifespan of your driveway by reducing the risk of cracks and freeze-related damage.

Want to learn more? Here are 13 tips to protect your driveway in winter!

General Damage Prevention

Quick Repairs: If cracks or other damage appear, repair them as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration. Small cracks can be sealed with specialized products, while larger issues may require professional assistance.

There’s No Wrong Choice!

Choosing between an asphalt or concrete driveway depends on various factors, including your aesthetic preferences, budget, and specific home needs. While asphalt driveways offer benefits such as lower initial costs and quick installation, concrete driveways stand out for their durability, customizable appearance, and environmental benefits.

Regardless of your choice, investing in a high-quality driveway is a sure way to enhance your home’s curb appeal and increase its value.

For personalized advice or to take advantage of our services, don’t hesitate to contact our experts at Groupe Bellemare.