Asphalt vs. Concrete: What’s Best for Your Commercial Project?

Asphalt and concrete each offer a smooth, durable surface for commercial roadways, driveways, and parking lots. However, each has benefits and drawbacks. When deciding between asphalt vs. concrete, what’s best for your commercial project depends on several factors.

When to use asphalt for commercial paving

Asphalt is the best choice for those looking for faster installation and the most cost-effective paving option for large parking lots, driveways, and roadways.

When to use concrete for commercial paving

Concrete is the ideal choice for aesthetically pleasing entrances and walkways, as well as improved durability in heavy-traffic commercial and industrial applications.

Pros and Cons of Asphalt in Commercial Paving

Consider these benefits and drawbacks before deciding on asphalt installation for your commercial paving project:

Asphalt cost

Asphalt costs less up-front to install than concrete, making it a popular choice for many commercial applications.

Asphalt installation speed

Asphalt provides a quick turnaround, minimizing downtime, curing in just 1-2 days.

Asphalt durability

Properly maintained asphalt lasts 15-25 years on average. It is naturally flexible and resists cracking from traffic and temperature changes. However, it can soften and become damaged in high heat and is more susceptible to damage from oil and chemical spills compared to concrete.

Asphalt maintenance

Asphalt requires more frequent care to prevent fading and surface damage, but it is faster and cheaper to maintain. We recommend regular sealcoating every 2-3 years and prompt crack filling to prevent water infiltration.

Asphalt customization

Specialized asphalt additives and mixtures improve durability for specific applications; however, aesthetic options are limited, except for custom striping and signage. Its smooth, dark surface offers the ideal backdrop for pavement markings.

Asphalt sustainability

Asphalt requires less energy to produce and install, reducing emissions. Made from bitumen, a petroleum product, its dark surface absorbs and retains heat, increasing the heat island effect. However, asphalt is 100% recyclable – the most recycled material in the US.

Pros and Cons of Concrete in Commercial Paving

Before installing concrete, be aware of its advantages and disadvantages in commercial applications:

Concrete cost

Concrete has a higher installation cost compared to asphalt, but offers an excellent return, providing lasting, low-maintenance use.

Concrete installation speed

Curing time for concrete may take several days, impacting project completion.

Concrete durability

Concrete can provide up to 40 years of use with proper care. It stands up to heavy vehicle traffic at loading docks and industrial facilities. Concrete performs better in hot climates, resisting softening. However, it’s less flexible than asphalt and may crack with temperature changes if not properly installed. While more resistant to chemical staining than asphalt, spots from oil and rust can be difficult to prevent and hide without sealants.

Concrete maintenance

Concrete requires less frequent care but is more expensive and time-consuming to repair. Cracks, settling, and upheavals may require concrete resurfacing or replacement. Regular pressure washing removes mildew and stains, and surface coatings protect against erosion, stains, and water damage.

Concrete customization

There are many options for enhancing concrete’s aesthetics, including concrete stamping, colorants, and sealing finishes.

Concrete sustainability

Concrete requires high heat to produce, and its cement component has a higher environmental footprint. It is also difficult to recycle. However, it lasts longer and requires less frequent repair and replacement, reducing environmental impact. Its reflective surface also reduces the heat island effect, lowering cooling costs in nearby facilities.

Get an Estimate on Asphalt or Concrete Installation

Asphalt vs. concrete: What’s best for your commercial project? Find the best solution to meet your needs and budget with help from the friendly team at American Asphalt. Contact us at 510-723-0280 to discuss commercial asphalt and concrete installation today.