When you’re deciding which pavement material to use when building or redoing your parking lot, you will need to consider whether to use Asphalt or Concrete. Both of these materials have their strengths and weaknesses that need to be considered, and the right choice depends on factors such as budget, climate, traffic load, and long-term maintenance expectations. In this article, we will discuss when it makes sense to use concrete vs. asphalt for your parking lot construction project.
When to Use Concrete for a Parking Lot
Concrete is a durable, long-lasting material that can be the right choice for certain parking lot projects. Here are the things you should consider when it comes to concrete:
- Heavy Traffic Loads
Concrete is a more durable material compared to asphalt. If the parking lot you’ll be paving will be subject to heavy vehicle traffic, such as forklifts, trucks, buses, or frequent delivery vehicles, consider choosing concrete.
- Hot Climates
If your parking lot is in a region where the climate can reach extreme heat, concrete would be the smart choice. Unlike asphalt, which softens in extreme heat, concrete remains solid and retains its structural integrity, reducing the risk of ruts and surface damage.
- Long-Term Cost Efficiency
While concrete certainly has a higher upfront cost than asphalt, it will last much longer than any asphalt pavement surface. While also requiring less maintenance. If you’re looking for a long-term investment with a lower frequency of maintenance requirements, then concrete is the better option.
- Aesthetic Appeal
Concrete offers more design flexibility, as it can be colored, stamped, or textured to match a particular look. This makes it a sought-after choice for high-end commercial properties, office parks, or residential developments.
When to Use Asphalt for a Parking Lot
Asphalt is a flexible, cost-effective, quick-to-install material ideal for specific applications. Below, you’ll find what you’ll need to consider if you’re thinking about choosing asphalt for your parking lot.
- Budget Constraints
If cost is a major factor in your decision-making process, asphalt is the more affordable option upfront. You will have more frequent maintenance requirements with asphalt, like sealcoating, to extend its lifespan.
- Faster Installation
Asphalt parking lots can be installed and ready for traffic within a few days, whereas concrete requires a longer curing time before heavy traffic.
- Easier Repairs and Maintenance
While asphalt does require a more frequent maintenance schedule, such as sealcoating and resurfacing every few years, repairs are simpler and more cost-effective than concrete. Asphalt patch repair allows for relatively easy repairs without significant disruption.
- When Ice Melt is Used Frequently
Ice melt or salt causes accelerated deterioration of concrete surfaces. Areas to NOT use concrete are retail centers, restaurants, etc. Asphalt should be used on any parking lot with high retail foot traffic where frequent ice melt will have to be used.
Final Decision: Concrete or Asphalt?
The choice between concrete and asphalt depends on your specific needs. If you need a pavement surface that’ll ensure heavy vehicle traffic and extremely hot temperatures, then concrete is the pavement you need. However, if you’re looking to be more cost-effective and have a quick installation, then asphalt might be the way to go. McConnell & Associates can help you evaluate what will best suit your needs and restrictions so we can deliver you the project you’ve been needing.
You can contact us by using the schedule an estimate buttons in this article. You can also visit our website at mcconnellassociates.org or by calling us at (816) 842-6066. You can also check out our business listing in the NKC Business Council.
