When it comes to choosing the material for a parking lot, it’s hard to know which choice is the best. Truth is, there’s no wrong decision here. However, it’s important to know all of your options available and the benefits that come along with them.
To aid you in your decision, we’re here to show you the differences between a concrete and asphalt parking lot along with the advantages and disadvantages of both.
Concrete Parking Lot Pros
One huge benefit of concrete is that it requires less maintenance and offers better performance than asphalt pavements. A concrete parking lot typically has a long lifespan and needs only joint sealing and annual cleaning. For those looking for an option that has the ability to handle heavy vehicular loads and severe environmental exposure, concrete is the material for you.
In addition, concrete parking lots can be colored and textured to meet your needs. With more design options available, concrete parking lots have a variety of colors to enhance the look and value of the parking lot. Additional benefits include:
- Reduced energy costs
- Smaller material requirements
- Long service life
Concrete Cons
Concrete is more expensive to install than asphalt. Additionally, depending on the season, a concrete parking lot can take up to a week to be ready for use. Another disadvantage of concrete is that unlike asphalt, concrete is not pliable. This makes concrete less durable when it comes to the freeze and thaw cycles during the winter season.
Asphalt Parking Lot Pros
An asphalt parking lot offers the benefits of a quick installation at a lower cost. Depending on the size of the project, this type of material can typically be laid in just a few days. While concrete usually takes twice as long to install, an asphalt parking lot can be ready for use in only two days.
Another benefit of an asphalt parking lot is that asphalt is less susceptible to freeze/thaw expansion and contraction. Unlike concrete, asphalt is subject to less damage and deterioration from ice and salt.
Asphalt Cons
Although asphalt has a lower cost than concrete, it will need to be resealed and resurfaced over time. Asphalt is typically cheaper to initially install, but regular maintenance is necessary, thus increasing the cost of the material. Furthermore, asphalt parking lots need to be resurfaced every 10 years or so and can potentially cause interruptions to the use of the parking lot for the business.
Asphalt or Concrete: The Choice is Yours
We understand that there are a lot of advantages and disadvantages to consider when it comes to the material for a parking lot. That’s why regardless of what size parking lot you need, you can count on the concrete experts at JBS Construction. Our durable, high-quality parking lots are built to last and endure Wisconsin’s erratic weather conditions.
We service residential and commercial properties all over Southeastern Wisconsin. Contact us today to receive your free estimate.
