Driveways
The driveway is an integral part of your home and it should reflect the quality and appearance of the overall property.
If the driveway is cracked and distorted, it might cause problems to your car tires and make your home look neglected.
If this is the case you can call “Ideal Masonry” for driveway work! We have the resources and expertise to fix, replace or get a new concrete driveway installed.
The Durability of Concrete Driveways
If durability is important to you, a concrete driveway is the way to go. On average, a concrete driveway lasts about 50-60 percent longer than its asphalt counterpart. Concrete, unlike asphalt, is not prone to cracking and distortion due to exposure to oxidation, UV radiation, water and chemicals.
Reaction to heat and light
Asphalt reacts to heat by absorbing it, whereas concrete reflects it, thus making concrete cooler during summer. Since concrete reflects light as well, lighting costs savings multiply for years to come.
Capacity to withstand heavy loads.
Concrete is a rigid material that can handle heavier loads than asphalt which cracks under to pressure of heavy vehicles, such as trucks.
Maintenance Expense.
The primary benefit of an asphalt driveway is the lower upfront cost, but such benefit is offset by higher maintenance costs.Immediately after the asphalt drive is installed, the binder begins to dry out and periodic sealcoating is required to slow this process. Even with sealcoating an asphalt driveway doesn’t last as long as a concrete one. Also concrete maintenance can be reduced through the use of penetrating sealers and contraction joints.
Environmental Considerations
Since the energy costs of a concrete driveway are lower it is more environmentally friendly paving solution. It requires less energy to produce and place concrete.
Resale value.
If you decide to put your home on the market, due to the aforementioned advantages, a concrete driveway may make it easier to sell your home, thus recovering a part of your investment.