Concrete Versus Asphalt: Which is Better for Paving?

Posted on December 23, 2022 by admin

When it comes to paving a driveway or parking lot, homeowners and businesses alike have an important decision to make: should they choose concrete or asphalt? Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best option depends on a variety of factors. In this blog post, we’ll compare concrete versus asphalt in terms of cost, versatility, appearance, maintenance, and longevity. Continue below to review the facts.

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What is Asphalt?

Asphalt is a common construction material composed of many different natural and aggregate components. It is most commonly used for paving roads and parking lots due to its durability and water resistance compared to other pavement materials. Asphalt is made up of bitumen, mineral filler, washed stone, gravel, and sand, with the exact composition depending on the project requirements. It is a popular choice for road projects because of its extensive security range, from extremes in hot temperatures to freezing temperatures in winter months. This kind of pavement also has a long lifetime when compared with other pavements, with maintenance than possible throughout its life span which adds to its cost effectiveness. Asphalt’s versatility has led it to become one of the most trusted materials for any residential or commercial construction project.

What is Concrete?

Concrete is a construction material that has been used for centuries to create incredibly durable structures. It is a composite of aggregates such as sand, gravel, or crushed stone that is bound together tightly with cement and water. Concrete can be used in many forms including blocks, slabs, molds, and even sprayed on surfaces. It offers many advantages due to its strength and resistance to weather damage. This makes it an ideal material for many types of construction projects in both residential and commercial buildings. Concrete also requires far less maintenance when compared to other building materials, making it an economical choice for most construction projects.

5-Point Comparison of Asphalt and Concrete

Cost: Asphalt is typically cheaper than concrete initially. However, asphalt wears away quickly and may need to be replaced within 10 years or less of installation. Concrete, on the other hand, can last up to 50 years with proper care and maintenance. Over the long term, concrete is often a more cost-effective option.

Versatility: Asphalt is particularly versatile in terms of form and design. For example, it can be easily manipulated to create curves or contours in the pavement. Concrete, while not as amenable to complex designs, can still be poured into a variety of forms and styles.

Appearance: Many people prefer the look of concrete over asphalt. Concrete can be poured in a variety of colors and textures, giving it more potential for customization. Asphalt is typically available only as black, though some companies offer decorative options such as stamped designs or colored asphalt.

Maintenance: Asphalt requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition, such as resurfacing or sealcoating every three to five years. Concrete is easier to maintain, but it can still benefit from occasional sealing and repair of any cracks that may form over time.

Longevity: Asphalt usually needs to be replaced every 10-15 years, depending on the climate and amount of use. On the other hand, concrete can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance.

Ultimately, the choice between asphalt and concrete depends on your individual needs and budget. Asphalt is often a better choice for shorter-term projects due to its lower upfront cost. However, if you’re looking for a longer-lasting solution that offers more design options, concrete may be the better choice. Be sure to consult with a professional Indianapolis paving contractor to determine which material is right for your project.

Ready to trust a commercial paving repair company? Search no more. ACI Asphalt & Concrete is the one for you! Contact us today at 317-549-1833 and discover our top-notch commercial pavement repair services in Indianapolis, as well as book a detailed consultation. Get your business’s pavement looking perfect with just one call!

How Thick Should Pavement Be?

Posted on December 13, 2022 by admin

Thick pavement is the key to a long lasting surface, whether you are working with asphalt or concrete. It can be tough to determine how thick your pavement should be, but with the right knowledge, you can make sure your paved surface or lot has enough thickness and durability to last for many years. In this blog post, we will discuss how thick asphalt and concrete pavement should be, as well as tips on how to determine the best thickness for your project. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your driveway is built to last.

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Proper Thickness for Asphalt and Concrete Pavement

Asphalt and concrete are both popular materials used for paved surfaces, each offering its own advantages and characteristics. As with any large-scale project involving either type of pavement, one of the most important considerations is achieving the correct thickness. Asphalt pavement should typically be laid between 4 inches and 6 inches thick. Residential driveways should be between 2 to 3 inches thick and commercial lots should be between 6 and 7 inches thick.

It is also important to remember that the asphalt layer should be supported by a strong base beneath it. If the granular base aggregate is not deep enough, the road surface can become compromised and result in further issues. Deeply compacted soils such as clay are also not suitable for supporting an asphalt surface, and this should be taken into consideration when laying your pavement. For best results, the base aggregate should be 6 to 8 inches deep for a stable and long-lasting asphalt surface.

Concrete slabs usually need to be at least 4 inches thick depending on factors such as traffic volumes and number of cycles traveled over the surface. For light use, concrete should be a minimum of 4 inches thick. Moderate regularity requires that the layer is 5 to 6 inches, while heavy utilization calls for 7 or more due to its enhanced durability and stability. By selecting the right thickness for concrete, a properly laid pavement can provide long lasting durability that delivers optimal results.

What Happens if Asphalt is Too Thin?

If the asphalt layer is too thin, it can result in a number of issues. The road surface may begin to crack and deteriorate quickly due to normal wear and tear, as well as extreme weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold. A thin asphalt layer will also be unable to support the same amount of weight that a thicker layer can. It is important to ensure that the asphalt layer on your property meets the recommended minimum thickness based on local regulations and standards. If you are unsure of what these standards are, it is best to consult a professional for advice. Additionally, an experienced Indianapolis commercial paving contractor should be able to assess your existing surface and provide suitable recommendations.

Tips on How to Determine the Best Thickness for Your Paving Project

1. The thickness of your paving project will depend on the surface you are paving.

2. If you are paving a driveway or patio, a thicker slab is recommended.

3. For other projects, such as sidewalks or pathways, a thinner slab may be sufficient.

4. Always consult with a professional before starting your paving project to get their expert opinion.

By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the best thickness for your paving needs and budget!

Choosing Between Concrete and Asphalt

When it comes to paving a large surface or lot, choosing between concrete and asphalt can be a difficult decision. Asphalt is usually less expensive and quicker to install than concrete, but it requires more maintenance over time due to its susceptibility to damage from water, snow, ice, and chemicals from car exhaust. Concrete is more durable and can last longer, but the installation process is more time-consuming and costly.

When deciding between concrete or asphalt for your project, consider factors such as cost, installation time and maintenance requirements. Asphalt tends to be less expensive than concrete and can be installed in a short amount of time. However, it requires frequent sealing every two to three years to protect against wear and tear. Meanwhile, concrete is more expensive and takes longer to install, but does not require regular sealing to stay in good condition.

Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages; the best option for your paved surface depends on your budget, time constraints, and maintenance expectations. Consider all of these factors before making a decision to ensure you get the best result for your parking lot. No matter which material you choose, proper installation and maintenance are essential for extending its life span and ensuring that your parking lot looks its best.

With the right combination of materials and expert installation, your parking lot will be a functional and attractive centerpiece for years to come. Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for licensed, bonded, and insured pavement installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana.

A Fundamental Comparison of Concrete and Asphalt Pavement

Posted on August 29, 2022 by admin

When it comes time to choose between two of the most popular and constructive paving materials for your property, understanding their differences, advantages, and disadvantages is a wise step toward making the best investment decision. Continue reading to learn what makes asphalt difference from concrete, as well as some of the most common pros and cons of each paving material.

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Asphalt and Concrete

Asphalt, also known as bitumen, is a dark bituminous pitch made from a combination of binder (usually refined liquid petroleum), filler, and aggregates like sand, gravel, stones, and grit. It is essentially crushed rock that has been heated and then cured into a hard, flat finish. Once cured, it is sealed with a seal coat, making it a non-permeable pavement that retains flexibility in order to withstand changing weather conditions and more.

Concrete is a man-made material prepared from cement, as well as certain aggregates like sand and gravel. It is a porous pavement, making it highly vulnerable to water permeation. After water enters the pores of the concrete, it will freeze and thaw with the changing seasons, which will cause cracks and other defects to surface in the following years.

Pros and Cons of Both

Take a look at some of the most common advantages and disadvantages of asphalt and concrete. This will give you an idea of what to expect, and perhaps help you make a wise buying decision. If you still have questions and concerns, your best course of action would be to talk to a licensed, bonded, and insured paving company for answers and advice you can trust.

Pros and Cons of Asphalt

Asphalt is easy to repair, cheaper to purchase, quicker to install (which also means cheaper labor costs) and is much better for the environment. It is widely noted for its sleek, smooth finishes and uniform appearances. On the other hand, asphalt has a lower lifespan than concrete. It is also less durable, requires ongoing maintenance, and can even soften in extreme heat conditions.

Pros and Cons of Concrete

Concrete is highly versatile and can be finished in an infinite array of colors, stains, scores, styles, and designs. It can even be made to imitate higher end materials, like brick, tile, and cobblestone. Compared to asphalt, it is more durable, can withstand extreme heat, and lasts much longer. However, concrete is more expensive to install and more difficult to repair. It is also prone to cracking in seasonal temperature fluctuations (freeze thaw cycles).

Do you have questions about your commercial paving needs? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for licensed, bonded, and insured pavement installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Top 3 Reasons Why is Asphalt More Popular Than Concrete

Posted on June 16, 2022 by admin

In modern construction, asphalt is one of the most fundamentally used materials for paving driveways, roads, parking lots, sidewalks, and more. It’s commonly used in place of concrete by contractors and property owners for a variety of reasons. Asphalt has several desirable features and qualities that makes it a better for many industrial and commercial paving projects.

Continue reading to learn the top three reasons why asphalt pavement is commonly preferred over concrete, plus how to get started with an estimate for asphalt paving in Central Indiana.

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The Benefits of Asphalt are Ample

Although asphalt is a preferred form of paving, this doesn’t mean that concrete has no benefits or advantages. Depending on the project, one material may be better suited than the other; however, many paving project managers are using asphalt instead of concrete these days. Below are some of the most talked about advantages of using asphalt over concrete for commercial and industrial paving projects.

Low Initial Costs

Concrete, in the long run, costs less than asphalt pavement; however, the initial cost of installing asphalt is cheaper than concrete paving projects. This means it’s more economical than concrete as well. The only downfall to the initial cost affordable is that long-term maintenance care for asphalt is sometimes disregarded.

Time Efficiency

One of the most attractive features to asphalt is that it is more time efficient than concrete paving projects. Not only is it time effective, it’s also easy to apply and dries quicker than concrete. This means asphalt is the perfect approach for minor pavement repairs, such as potholes, cracks, and more. When it comes to paving projects or repair, saving time saves money on both ends.

Durability

There is a big difference between asphalt and concrete when it comes to durability, strength, and resilience. Concrete is more susceptible to damage and cracks much easier, making it much more prone to wear and tear, than asphalt paving. This means concrete also requires more maintenance and sealing then asphalt pavement does. Asphalt is also more weather resistant than concrete. It is resistant to normal or extreme climate changes, as well as harsh weather conditions and much more.

These reasons are just the start to why so many consumers choose asphalt for industrial or commercial pavement applications. It is highly recommended to consult your local Indianapolis commercial paving company for accurate and reliable information.

Are you looking for a trusted commercial paving company in your area? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to speak with a licensed contractor about commercial asphalt paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve clients all throughout the state.

Will I Pay More For Asphalt or Concrete?

Posted on June 7, 2022 by admin

Cost comparisons play a vital role in all business-related expenditures, large or small. So, when it comes to paving new surfaces for your company, you will naturally want to know which pavement material is more cost-effective. Basically, you want to know if asphalt will cost you more than concrete, or vice versa. Scroll down to learn some facts about the cost of asphalt and concrete paving materials that will help you make the best spending decision for your business.

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The Price of Asphalt Versus the Price of Concrete

Asphalt and concrete are two entirely different paving materials used to render the same types of paved structures. From roads and parking lots to courts, plazas, sidewalks, curbs, bollards, and more, both asphalt and concrete have proven to be tried and true paving products. But which one will cost you more, upfront and in the long run? The answer is complicated and more importantly, will vary depending on the unique details and specifications of your paving project. For this reason, lean on the facts about asphalt and concrete prices to help you get started in the right direction.

Let’s examine the pros and cons of both paving materials in terms of price and maintenance.

Average Prices

Asphalt is generally cheaper than concrete. That is why it is so widely used to pave roads, highways, and interstate systems. Oppositely, concrete tends to come with a high price tag. On average, asphalt can be procured between $1 and $5 per square foot (installed), while average concrete prices range between $3 and $10 per square foot installed.

Routine Maintenance

Although asphalt is the cheaper paving option upfront, it generates additional costs every 3 to 5 years when it needs resealing. A single bucket of asphalt sealant can cost upwards of $20, so you can imagine the total cost to reseal a multi-level parking lot or business front driveway. Without a proper sealcoat, asphalt will incur more damage, which can lead to premature repairs and overlays.

Concrete does not require much maintenance other than routine cleaning, pressure washing, and if applicable, fresh paint application. However, concrete cracks tend to be a challenging repair, and therefore, pricey. That is something to think about when deciding on a paving material.

Square Footage

Because asphalt and concrete are typically priced by the square foot, installed, the size of your project will largely impact the total cost of paving. The more surface area, the higher the cost, both upfront and in the long run.

Lifespan

Concrete pavements can last between 20 and 60 years with good care. Asphalt pavements can last between 10 and 30 years with regular sealcoating and good care.

Are you looking for qualified road construction and commercial paving in Central Indiana? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for licensed and insured paving services for asphalt and concrete pavements in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve commercial and industrial clients all throughout such parts of the state.

Which Paving Material Performs Better in Winter?

Posted on October 15, 2019 by admin

In most cases of developing or restoring a property, pavement is going to be an important factor. From sidewalks and driveways, to patios, parking lots, ADA ramps, and more, paving generally plays a large role in real estate construction and renovation. This time of year, proprietors are asking questions about pavement installation, including which paving material is a better choice for winter weather conditions.

Continue reading to find out what you need to know about choosing a paving material for your construction project this season.

Asphalt or Concrete?

The two primary categories of pavement are asphalt and concrete, both of which retain separate qualities and properties, as well as, contain a list of sub-categories of paving materials. It is important to understand the differences and similarities among the paving options available to choose the best material for your property.

Asphalt Options

There are three main types of asphalt materials to choose from. These include hot-mix asphalt, cold-mix asphalt, and UPM asphalt. There is also warm asphalt mix.

Hot mix asphalt is poured at a high temperature of 300 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and is only applied when outdoor temperatures exceed 40 degrees Fahrenheit because it cools so rapidly. In the United States, it is the most common method of asphalt paving used for high-traffic pavements like highways, roads, interstates, and more.

Warm mix asphalt is manufactured and shipped at lower temperatures, usually between 200 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit, and it has a slower cooling rate than HMA. This means it can be used in colder seasons or climates for road, highway, and interstate construction.

Cold patch asphalt is emulsified in water using soap, and then mixed with an aggregate, usually concrete, to render a stronger, more durable paving material. It is mostly used to fill potholes on a year-round basis. There are various grades, all designed for specific climates. There is a specially-formulated winter grade for temperatures of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, a spring and fall grade for temperatures between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and a summer mix for temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

UPM® permanent patching material is manufactured by the company, Unique Paving Materials, hence the acronym “UPM.” Although one of the most popular products, there are various brands offered on the market aside from UPM® permanent patching material, such as EZ Street® and Aquaphalt®.

Concrete Options

There are several different types and grades of concrete available. The type chosen depends on the application and similar factors. Common concrete options include normal strength concrete, plain or ordinary concrete, reinforced concrete, pre-stressed concrete, precast concrete, light-weight concrete, high-density concrete, and air-entrained concrete. Grade options range in ratios of cement, sand, and aggregates, from M5 to M70.

Talk to a Paving Professional in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial and municipal paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide several Indianapolis asphalt and concrete paving services, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, winter cold patching, and more. We are the industry veterans to trust for skilled craftsmanship and competitive prices! Request a free estimate, today.

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