The decision over what type of pavement best suits your needs may not always be easy to figure out. All of the major differences between asphalt and concrete may not jump out to the average person. While pavement may play an essential role in getting us to where we need to go every day, you might not have thought that much about the distinct types of surfaces we interact with daily.  To help you better understand why you should consider using asphalt over concrete for your next project, we’ve put together a few points highlighting why this versatile paving material can be so advantageous.

Asphalt Ideal for Use in Michigan

Asphalt is ideal to use for paving in the Northeast because it flexes and can handle temperature fluctuations well. Concrete can face issues with cracking in harsh winter environments. Asphalt can hold up just as well as concrete if it is put down the right way and can prove to be the cheaper option. While asphalt typically needs more maintenance than concrete, it is often much easier to repair than concrete. Cracks and holes can be patched and sealed at a cheaper price and appear less obvious than concrete patching.

Asphalt Resurfacing Good Option to Reduce Paving Costs Over Time

Additionally, as the pavement ages, installing resurfacing layers is usually an option for asphalt as opposed to concrete. Resurfacing can be cost-effective and extend the lifespan of the pavement. Due to the nature of the product, concrete cannot be resurfaced and needs to be completely replaced once it has reached the end of its lifespan.

Primary Benefits of Asphalt When Compared to Concrete

In summary, while concrete may be rather durable, concrete may also:

  • Be more expensive
  • Be difficult to repair
  • Wear more easily in colder climates

The benefits of asphalt are that it can:

  • Be cheaper
  • Be repaired more easily
  • Be installed faster
  • Be maintained more easily

Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Asphalt

Asphalt is not always the perfect paving solution, particularly if it is not installed properly or well maintained. Remember, the lifespan of asphalt can easily be extended by:

  • Asphalt maintenance
  • Patching
  • Crack filling
  • Sealcoating (which helps protect the asphalt from harmful agents such as oil and the weather)
  • Resurfacing

Leave Your Paving Needs to the Experts at Michigan Paving & Materials

Proper installation and maintenance is best left to be the experts. While working on your next paving project, consider contacting Michigan Paving & Materials to help fulfill all your industrial and commercial paving needs. We have been in business since 1959 and work with you each step of the way to make sure your project is a success. Our expertise truly shows, and we have even received a large number of national recognition awards as an organization. To find out more information, contact us now.

 

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