Parking Lot Paving Hampton VA

We service commercial parking lot requests at offices, church buildings, and other places. So, what are some important things to keep in mind when choosing a contractor that is the right fit?

Firstly, are you looking for asphalt or concrete? Let us dive into what is right for you. Many persons usually make the mistake of not deciding the correct surface type before embarking on any parking lot project. Finding out the best place for a parking lot project is very crucial to having a durable parking lot.

To decide the best surface for your parking lot, a good examination of the differences between asphalt and concrete paving would go a long way in making the best decision.

For driveways, there are two primary surface materials to choose from: asphalt and concrete. Though these surfacing materials vary in different ways, they also have similarities. Both surfacing materials have a gravel base for the similarities, and they are both formulated with stone and sand. The main difference between these two surfacing materials is in their adhesive materials. Concrete surfacing is made of cement, while asphalt surfacing is a petroleum-based adhesive.

This difference in adhesive materials leads to a variety of differences between asphalt and concrete surfaces. Therefore, these are the five main disparities in asphalt and concrete surfaces.

• Durability – Asphalt is less durable than concrete. If you give both surfaces proper and quality maintenance, concrete surfaces can last more than 50 years, while asphalt can last about 30 years.

• Cost – The cost of an asphalt surface is cheaper than a concrete surface. In terms of per square foot cost, asphalt surfaces cost around $2.00 to $4.00. However, the cost of asphalt surfaces tends to fluctuate according to crude oil prices.  When it comes to concrete surfaces, the cost per square foot cost between $4.00 to $6.00 for a quality concrete surface. Take note, extra quality finishes and detailing can increase the price by as much as $16.00 per square foot.

Maintenance and repair differences – When it comes to maintenance and repairs, asphalt surfaces require more maintenance and repairs when compared to concrete surfaces. Generally, after eight months of installing asphalt, driveways should be seal coated every three to five years. Of course, this type of maintenance is not compulsory, but it is necessary for a durable asphalt driveway.

For concrete surfaces, not as much maintenance is required. Applying seal coating maintenance to a concrete surface is unnecessary but would enhance the look and preserve the finish. Degreasers increase maintenance costs for concrete surfaces, but they are necessary to remove oil, fuel, and chemical stains that accumulate in the long run.

For cracks, asphalt cracks are easier to fix and can return beautiful as well. But for concrete cracks, are harder to fix and impossible to resurface.

• Stamping and Design – When it comes to stamping certain designs and crusts on your driveway, you can experiment better with concrete surfaces. Concrete surfaces make it easier to create different impressions of various designs and stamps. On the other hand, asphalt surfaces do not lend themselves well to designs and prints. It must be rolled and compressed to your particular stamp during installation, and most times, the designs do not come out clear.



• Climate and Weather – For hot weather conditions, asphalts are not recommended. This is because extremely hot weather conditions can melt and spoil an asphalt surface. On the other hand, concrete surfaces are not advisable for cold weather conditions as they are prone to cracks and deep thawing.

From these differences, you can make a sound decision on whether to make use of asphalt or a concrete surface for parking lots and other driveways. Due to the minimal cost, ease of design and impression, and other personal preferences, many tend to go for asphalt surfaces.