If you have a concrete driveway or parking lot, it might be time to switch over and enjoy the benefits of an asphalt paved surface. As great as asphalt is, is paving asphalt over concrete a good idea? Many businesses get asphalt paved over their existing concrete slabs to save money and time, but it doesn’t mean it’s always the right approach. If it’s time for a driveway change, explore if placing asphalt over an existing concrete base is worthwhile for you.
Can Asphalt Be Placed Over Concrete?
If you don’t want to remove your existing concrete, you’re in luck. It’s safe to pave asphalt driveways over concrete, and many cities and states pave over concrete roads and highways each year. Many places recommend placing asphalt over concrete because they provide plenty of benefits. It saves time, as construction companies don’t have to worry about removing the existing concrete and giving the asphalt a solid foundation. It provides a stronger resistance to weather and is the most cost-effective solution.
So if you’re considering laying asphalt over concrete, yes, it is possible. But there’s also the question of whether or not it’s worth doing. Laying asphalt over concrete may sound good at first, but a few negatives can make this an unreliable solution.
What Risks Do I Face Applying Asphalt Over My Concrete Driveway?
While asphalt can be placed over concrete, there are some challenges the process cannot account for. A good construction company will always keep you attuned to the pros and cons of each project, but it’s also wise to understand them beforehand. Here are the main reasons your asphalt over concrete project might not be such a good idea.
Asphalt Needs a Strong Base
Asphalt driveways need a strong base underneath to maximize their lifespan. Asphalt cannot adhere to all parts of concrete surfaces. As traffic moves, the concrete slabs will move with it, slowly causing damage and cracks in the asphalt. The stronger your base, the longer your asphalt will last, and concrete isn’t guaranteed to provide a stable enough base.
Expansion Joints
The standard way of placing asphalt over concrete is to pour it into sections. Concrete expansion joints, or the cracks between the sections, are created to prepare for the freeze-thaw cycle and eventual expansion of the material. As concrete cracks, so does asphalt, meaning that your pavement is at immediate risk of degradation because of these expansion joints.
You’ll Get Less Life Out of Your Driveway
One of the biggest perks of asphalt is its durability, and laying asphalt over concrete reduces that lifespan. What you’ll save in costs for the installation will likely be given back when your driveway needs a replacement earlier than anticipated. Homeowners and especially businesses with high traffic will have to pay for repairs much sooner and eventually settle on a replacement in time.
Is Asphalt or Concrete Better for My Driveway?
Many places are beginning to switch from concrete to asphalt for their driveways. Asphalt is extremely beneficial, providing extra durability and strength — especially for busy locations — and is easy to install and maintain. Asphalt also remains in good condition for a long time, providing a beautiful look and feel that anyone would appreciate. Concrete is also a very solid option and provides a strong foundation, but if you’re considering asphalt paving, it’s probably better to install it without the existing concrete base.
Call Stanley Paving for a High-Quality Driveway
Whether you need to remove the concrete from the driveway or if you choose to lay asphalt over concrete, it’s a job meant to be completed by professionals. A poor installation will not only enhance the inherent flaws in installing asphalt over concrete but can lead to short and long-term problems with cars and other machinery operating on the driveway.
The best way to find the right application for your driveway is to contact Stanley Paving for our commercial paving services in Burlington County, NJ. We will give your concrete base a proper evaluation and lay out the pros and cons of laying new asphalt on old concrete. Contact us today and get in touch with one of our professional pavers to begin your evaluation.