When paving your parking lot in Hamilton, it’s essential to choose the best material for durability, cost-effectiveness, and long-term maintenance. We’re asked this question regularly here at Via Pave Ltd.: “Concrete or asphalt?” Each material has its own advantages, and it is essential to understand the benefits of each so that you can determine which one is best suited for your home.
1. Cost Considerations
Asphalt:
- Generally, it is less expensive initially than concrete.
- Less labour to install can mean less expense.
- An excellent option for companies seeking an affordable and practical sleeve.
Concrete:
- Higher initial investment.
- Provides lasting strength and will outlast other surfaces, such as Asphalt.
- It may be more cost-effective in the long run for heavily trafficked areas.
2. Durability and Lifespan
Asphalt:
- Flexible and durable, so less likely to crack in cold weather.
- Life span is 15—20 years when maintained correctly.
- It can be reconditioned to lengthen its service life.
Concrete:
- It is very robust and can withstand heavy loads without deformation.
- Life expectancy can be over 30 years with good care.
- Oil and chemical-resistant, making it easy to maintain.
3. Maintenance Requirements
Asphalt:
- Needs to be seal-coated every 2-3 years to protect from UV and water damage.
- Repairs, such as filling in cracks, are easy and inexpensive.
Concrete:
- Low-maintenance once installed.
- It may require smoothening rarely, but fixing it can be more expensive and time-consuming.
- It tends to hold up longer, so it is often used in industrial or heavy-duty locales.
4. Aesthetic and Design Options
Asphalt:
- Provides a nice, dark finish that looks great on your property.
- Easier to stripe and mark for parking spaces, handicapped zones and directions.
Concrete:
- May be stained, stamped or textured with no special tools.
- Provides a brighter surface that helps you see night colours more clearly.
5. Climate Considerations in Hamilton
Cold winters, freezing and thawing cycles can all play havoc on your parking lot in Hamilton.
- Its flexibility means that, in colder areas, asphalt is a good choice.
- It may crack more easily under freeze-thaw conditions, but if properly installed with expansion in mind, it remains very durable.
6. Environmental Impact
- Asphalt is recyclable and can be repurposed for new paving, making it an environmentally friendly option.
- Concrete lasts much longer than asphalt, reducing the frequency of repaving and its long-term environmental impact.
What Material is Best for You?
Choose either asphalt or concrete based on factors such as budget, application, including long-term maintenance estimations, or appearance. For high-traffic commercial use and long-term durability, concrete is the popular choice—asphalt, with its pliable, inexpensive quality and straightforward maintenance, often proves to be among the top choices.
At Via Pave Ltd., we offer professional advice and services to ensure your parking is fit for purpose and long-lasting. Contact us today to discover the benefits of pavers for your Hamilton home.