What Is the Difference Between Asphalt and Concrete?
Technically, asphalt is considered to be a kind of concrete. However, concrete tends to refer to aggregate that has been mixed with a cement binder to create a rock-like substance. In contrast, asphalt consists of aggregate that has been mixed with a bitumen binder to create something that is similar but not quite the same. Both options have their fair share of advantages and disadvantages, meaning that you need to put some serious thought into choosing the one that is right for your business.
What Are the Strengths of Asphalt?
Asphalt is flexible in a way that concrete is not. Although this sounds like something undesirable, this can be a serious advantage under the right circumstances because it will deform instead of breaking beneath excessive weight, which can happen when concrete is allowed to set on an uneven surface. Furthermore, it should be noted that repairing asphalt is much easier than repairing concrete because potential problems can by fixed by pouring fresh asphalt before smoothing it out with a steamroller. In contrast, serious breaks in concrete cannot be fixed without removing the section and then replacing it altogether.
What Are the Strengths of Concrete?
It should be noted that concrete tends to be cheaper in the long run so long as it has been laid down with the right expertise and experience. In part, this is because concrete needs minimal maintenance, whereas asphalt needs regular application of a sealer to shield it from sunlight, water, and other potentially damaging elements. However, it should also be noted that concrete is stronger, meaning that it can handle heavier weights better so long as it has been installed in the right manner. Finally, the rock-like substance comes in a lighter color than asphalt, which can mean potential savings on both lighting and cooling because it reflects more of the sunlight that shines upon it.
Should You Choose Asphalt and Concrete?
Summed up, if you are concerned about cost in the long run, you should choose concrete for your land improvement rather than asphalt. So long as you make sure to choose someone that you can trust for your installation, you can count on getting something that will last you for years and years with minimal chances of something going wrong, which is important for areas that are expected to see high traffic.
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Whether you choose asphalt or concrete for your land improvements, you will need to clean them on a regular basis to keep them in a professional-looking state. As a result, if you want the best results, you can count on Atlantic Sweeping & Cleaning, Inc. to provide you with them in a fast and reliable manner.