When it comes to paving projects, the choice between using asphalt or concrete is a key factor in the overall project cost. You want to find a material that will last for years to come and save you money in the long run. Here are five things that you need to know about paving with concrete instead of asphalt:
The initial cost
Depending on the job, concrete can be cheaper than asphalt. If you have a project that will be completed quickly, such as a parking lot or street, concrete may be the better option for you. It can be poured and set up in less time, which will minimize traffic delays.
Savings on fuel
If you are paving a parking lot or street with concrete, you can save quite a bit of money on your fuel costs. In fact, America’s Federal Highway Administration reported that nearly 1.2 billion gallons of diesel could be saved every year by paving with concrete instead of asphalt.
In addition, the amount of energy that concrete uses is lower than asphalt. This means that you can use less power to maintain your new pavement, which will help save you a lot of money over the long haul.
More durable
Because of its thicker, stronger structure, concrete roads tend to be more durable than asphalt. This allows them to hold up to more damage from vehicles, including potholes and cracking. It also helps prevent the need for major resurfacing or replacement.
More environmentally friendly
Concrete is produced from limestone, which can reduce pollution caused by mining. It also tends to be a greener material because it creates less emissions than asphalt.
It is a highly recyclable material, making it one of the most environmentally friendly options for paving projects. It is also a highly porous surface, which helps control the flow of water.
Lighter Colors
While the natural color of concrete is grey, it can be colored in almost any way. This gives you a more aesthetically pleasing surface, as well as making it easier to see in dark areas.
Keeping Areas Cool
Because concrete is lighter in color, it reflects more of the sun’s energy than asphalt does. This can help to keep your work areas cooler, which can also reduce electricity costs.
Less Maintenance and Resurfacing
Unlike asphalt, concrete doesn’t need to be resurfaced or patched as often. In fact, it can last for decades without needing any resurfacing at all.
The main reason why many cities choose concrete over asphalt is because it is more durable. It can take more punishment from heavy vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs.
It also keeps roads safer and more sanitary, as it can resist corrosion and road salt buildup. It also helps keep vehicles from skidding, which is essential to the safety of drivers and their passengers.
In addition, asphalt can get very hot in the summer, which can be damaging to it and accelerate issues like raveling, cracking and tracking. It can also be prone to a heat island effect, where it absorbs more of the sun’s energy than concrete does.