Exploring the Benefits of Asphalt Driveways

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Asphalt driveways are an affordable option for homeowners looking to improve their property. They are also durable and can withstand the elements, making them an excellent choice for any homeowner.

Most residential driveways use hot mix asphalt, which is heated and combined at the paving site. Its rich black color is aesthetically pleasing and hides automotive fluid stains.

Longevity

Asphalt is a great choice for a driveway because it can typically last fifteen to twenty years without needing to be replaced. This lifespan can be extended even further by implementing routine maintenance.

Specifically, resealing your asphalt driveway every year can significantly increase its lifespan. Also, sweeping and other basic maintenance tasks can help it remain looking new.

Additionally, an asphalt driveway can resist freeze-thaw cycles better than concrete and withstand de-icing salts with less damage. Asphalt also reflects sunlight instead of absorbing it, making it cooler to walk on during hot weather. In addition, its dark coloration hides engine oil drips and other marks that tend to appear on concrete. This can be especially beneficial for homeowners who want their driveways to look more polished.

Durability

Asphalt is more durable than concrete which can withstand heavy vehicles and the weather. It is also resistant to the freeze-thaw cycle and de-icing salts, which can damage driveways not made with a stronger material.

This is important because it allows the driveway to remain intact longer, making it easier to maintain and improve its overall appearance. A smooth driveway is a major selling point for home buyers, so having a strong, durable material in your driveway can increase your property value.

Furthermore, asphalt is less likely to crack from the sun’s heat and UV rays. It is also more flexible than other paving materials, which helps prevent deterioration and cracks that can lead to potholes.

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Aesthetics

Whether it’s a residential apartment, commercial building or resort, asphalt driveway pavers enhance the appearance of your property. They are aesthetically pleasing to behold, easy to maintain and help increase the market value of your home.

Unlike concrete, asphalt isn’t prone to cracking due to temperature fluctuations or water retention under the surface. It also doesn’t require specialized paving methods for installation, which saves you money.

Moreover, if you prefer rock salt on your driveway in winter, asphalt withstands these chemical treatments better than concrete. The dark surface absorbs more heat, allowing snow to melt faster than on a concrete driveway. However, you must be vigilant and regularly sweep your asphalt driveway to remove any debris stuck in it.

Noise Reduction

Asphalt driveways require less maintenance than concrete and are relatively easy to repair. The dark color hides oil stains and rust, cutting cleaning and maintenance costs. It also dries quickly, allowing for quicker driveway access and use.

In addition, asphalt can withstand harsh winter conditions. Its dark color reflects sunlight, which helps facilitate snow melt. The material is resistant to freeze-thaw cycles and de-icing salts. Additionally, asphalt is quieter to drive on than concrete, as it absorbs engine noise. Smooth pavement saves fuel costs and reduces vehicle wear and tear, extending their lifespan by about 10 percent. These cost-saving benefits make asphalt the best choice for homeowners. Unlike concrete, which takes up to a week to cure, asphalt can be driven on in just a few days after being paved.

Environmentally Friendly

Asphalt is one of the most environmentally friendly materials on the market. Asphalt plants recycle or reuse tires, glass, asphalt roofing shingles, blast furnace slag, and other items, saving them from landfills and helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition, a black asphalt driveway reflects sunlight rather than absorbs it, cooling city and crowded town areas by decreasing air temperatures at night and in the summer. It also withstands de-icing salts and the freeze-thaw cycle better than concrete.

Asphalt can also be made porous, allowing rainwater to soak into the ground and reducing runoff pollution. Porous asphalt pavements help the natural water cycle more than standard asphalt, even restoring a site’s hydrology.

 

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