Asphalt Driveways – Pros and Cons

Asphalt driveways are a mixture of stone and sand. However, it also contains petroleum products that form an adhesive base. It requires high temperatures to mix, soften and roll. Once it cools off, it becomes a solid driveway. You could easily find professionals who can make Asphalt driveways in Melbourne online and reach out to them for having your driveway at home or office space.

Let’s find out the pros and cons of asphalt driveways.

Pros of Asphalt Driveways

• Cost: It would initially cost less to install asphalt driveways which can be significantly lower when compared to the concrete driveways. It can save you on the overall driveway paving costs.
• Installation: You could drive on asphalt immediately after pouring without much hassle. However, it would be ideal to drive on it once it dries off completely in two to three days.
• Durability: Asphalt driveways can easily last for around 15 to 20 years. However, it can last for a longer period if well-maintained.
• Maintenance: The Asphalt driveways Melbourne might get cracks and potholes over time. However, they are easy to repair without much noticeable difference. The repairs would blend well easily with the actual driveway. It doesn’t show oil stains or rust due to the naturally dark colour.
• Curb Appeal: Asphalt driveways enhance the overall look of the property. It would be a good choice if you need an appearance that matches the street. It also increases the value of your home if you are looking to sell the house sometime soon.
• Climate: Asphalt can be a better choice when it comes to draining rainwater since it is porous. It is less prone to cracking and flexible during freezing weather.
• Eco-friendliness: Asphalt is recyclable and helps in saving energy during the construction process. You could reuse the asphalt from the current driveways to mix with the new surface.

Cons of Asphalt Driveways

• Cost: The initial price might be cheaper when compared to concrete. However, constant maintenance needed might be a costly affair when compared to concrete driveways.
• Durability: It would stay for around 30 to 30 years if maintained well. However, it is less durable when compared to concrete.
• Design: It is designed with lower aesthetic appeal due to the lack of options to style the driveway. However, manufacturers now mix asphalt with naturally coloured rocks or recycled glass by using coloured sealing agents to provide a creative look.
• Eco-friendliness: It is indeed an eco-friendly choice as it is recyclable and needs just 20% less energy to produce when compared to other materials. However, it makes use of petroleum products and these might release oils when they are too hot.
• Climate: Asphalt is not ideal for hot temperatures as it can absorb heat and become hot. Avoid touching asphalt with bare hands or feet on an extremely sunny day. As the temperatures soar to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, asphalt becomes gooey. It sticks to the tires or shoes and can also stain the house floors. Asphalt definitely can be a better choice for mild and cold climates.