Whether paving a commercial or private parking lot, there are two main options: asphalt or concrete. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, making it difficult to decide which one is right for your business.
Straight Edge Contractors LLC compares asphalt parking lot vs. concrete parking lot to help you choose the right option for your Midland business.
The Pros of Asphalt Paving:
No. 1: Quick Installation, Lower Cost
Asphalt paving can be completed quickly, making it a great option if you need to get your parking lot up to and running as soon as possible. It’s also less expensive than concrete, making it a more affordable option for many businesses.
No. 2: Green Thumbs and Roads
We value asphalt for its environmental friendliness. Asphalt comes from recycled materials, so it doesn’t require burning fossil fuels as concrete does. You can even recycle old asphalt to create new asphalt pavement, further reducing its environmental impact.
No. 3: Long Lifespan
While it demands regular maintenance, asphalt can last you several years with proper care. Only the top layer is removed instead of the entire pavement when repaving, which saves you time and money.
The Cons of Asphalt Paving
There’s a bad apple at the bottom of every barrel, and asphalt is no exception.
- Hot Weather: An asphalt pavement will not stand summer temperatures of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Instead, it will start to melt, and the tar will run off the sides of the road.
- Maintenance: Asphalt requires attention and frequent repairs and sealants every few years to preserve its color and protect it from the weather.
The Pros of Concrete Paving
Now for the good news! Concrete is an excellent choice for paving parking lots because:
No. 1: Durability
Concrete paving can last for numerous years without needing repairs or replacement. Your concrete pavement might even outlast the asphalt around it. When concrete does crack, the cracks are usually small and easily repaired.
No. 2: Beat the Heat
Concrete is much more heat resistant than asphalt, so if you live in an area with long, hot summers, concrete is excellent for your parking lot.
No. 3: Design Options
Not only is concrete paving aesthetic, but it can also be stamped or stained to create a more customized look. You can even add color if you want! Add some dimension and style to your parking lot with concrete.
The Cons of Concrete Paving
Nothing is perfect, and concrete has a few drawbacks.
- Installation Time: As opposed to ready-set-go asphalt, concrete takes twice as long to install and even longer to cure.
- Water Drainage: While porous or permeable asphalt allows water to drain into the soil, concrete does not. This can lead to water pooling, which is an eyesore and a potential safety hazard.
- Winter Blues: Asphalt holds up pretty well in the winter, but concrete is susceptible to freeze or thaw expansion and contraction cycles that can cause cracking.
Conclusion
Looking for a reliable paving contractor in Midland, TX? Look no further than Straight Edge Contractors LLC. We provide quality paving solutions at competitive prices, and we’re always here to answer any questions you may have.
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All-Inclusive Asphalt & Concrete Paving Company Serving El Paso, Texas.
We Construct Stunning Commercial & Residential Pavement Assets While Protecting Your Investment
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| Hours | |
|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 12:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |