Concrete Driveways
Concrete driveways are aesthetically pleasing and versatile. There are multiple finishes to choose from, including tinted or stamped finish, broom finish or an exposed aggregate finish which gives it that pebble-like look. Whichever finish you choose, the concrete takes several days to cure.
Cold Canadian winters and the freeze-thaw process can cause concrete driveways to crack. Fortunately, concrete can be repaired by concrete contractors in Edmonton. Concrete is easy to shovel snow off of in the winter; homeowners may want to avoid using salt on their concrete driveways as it can create unattractive pits or blotches.
Concrete driveways also retain their shape well in the hot summer months and show less wear and tear over time. Unlike asphalt, the edges are less likely to deteriorate.
Concrete driveways are generally more expensive than asphalt, both in installation and repair.
Concrete contractors in Edmonton can install a brand new concrete driveway for your home.
Asphalt Driveways
Asphalt is made by mixing aggregate with liquid asphalt cement made of petroleum. The aggregates are heated up, mixed with the asphalt cement and then installed on your driveway while it is still hot, then hardens as it cools.
Asphalt does well in colder climates since the materials can flex with the freezing and thawing making your asphalt less likely to crack. It is also more porous in nature, meaning water can drain through it more easily. However, asphalt driveways can start to crumble and crack over time, and extreme heat can cause your asphalt driveway to become soft and even deform.
Asphalt driveways are less expensive to install than concrete driveways, and do-it-yourselfers repairs can be done more easily on an asphalt driveway using products available at most building supply stores. Just make sure you maintain your asphalt by sealing it within a year of installation and every few years after that. Asphalt sealing products are available at your local building supply store as well. Learn how to seal a driveway.
Leave A Comment