Differences Between Asphalt and Concrete?
Monday, October 8, 2018What is the difference between asphalt and concrete? Both materials are both commonly used for pavement, but they have very different properties. First, concrete is recognized in the pavement industry as a “rigid” material, and asphalt is considered “flexible.” These qualities have a lot to do with how concrete and asphalt (respectively) react to the environment and force loads. At Total Asphalt Paving, Inc., we understand that asphalt is the best material for roads, driveways, and parking lots. And we are the Southeast Michigan leaders in commercial paving and residential paving Michigan.
Why Asphalt is the preferred material for Roads, Driveways, and Parking Lots
Believe it or not, professional pavers used to prefer concrete, but this is no longer the case. Both concrete and asphalt are made with aggregates (sand or crushed rock). However, with concrete, cement is used to bind the aggregate. Then, as this mixture dries, the cement becomes a stiff solid that breaks and cracks easily.
However, when the asphalt is created, the aggregate is bound by a substance called bitumen – a dark, sticky substance that comes from crude oil. Normally, with asphalt paving, a light aggregate is mixed with bitumen then spread over a bed of heavier aggregate. The asphalt is then pressed with a roller. This process makes asphalt paving durable, strong, and flexible enough to handle traffic and every type of weather condition.
In addition, asphalt paving requires minimal maintenance, it is long-lasting, and asphalt is recyclable – meaning that it can be reused if a road, driveway, or parking lot is no longer needed. As a bonus, an asphalt paving service typically costs less than concrete paving.
Contact Total Asphalt Paving for the best in Driveway Paving and Commercial Parking Lot Paving
If you need commercial asphalt paving or residential asphalt paving, call (586) 752-9060 or reach out to us through the contact form on our website. In addition to driveways and parking lots, we also provide the best in recreational asphalt paving, so give us a call for bike paths, tennis courts, or basketball courts!