For many homeowners, their driveways are made of concrete. According to John R. Wood Properties, a leading international real estate company, a concrete driveway lasts anywhere from 25 to 50 years. While concrete is a long-lasting material, it isn't always the right option for every driveway. Be it for aesthetics or performance, there are many driveways composed of other materials such as asphalt, seashell, or brick. Many homeowners can actually benefit from investing in an asphalt driveway. From an expert, here are some reasons why you may want to choose asphalt for your driveway.

Asphalt Is Affordable

Concrete driveways have a long lifespan but they come at a high cost. It doesn't matter if you're an experienced or brand-new homeowner. When considering renovations, it's important to budget appropriately. If you need a new driveway but are looking for a budget option, asphalt may be perfect for you. Our experts agree that asphalt is the most economical option for a new driveway.

It's Faster to Install

One of the lesser-discussed benefits associated with asphalt driveways is that they can be installed faster. That means less downtime for your household. When working with concrete, your driveway needs to be properly spread and leveled. From there, it needs to cure — or harden — before anyone can walk or drive on it. The curing process can take a week or longer. On the other hand, asphalt installs quickly and cures much faster. You may be able to use your new asphalt driveway in just a couple of days.

Asphalt Hides Stains

Concrete is light in color and it stains easily. You can see oil spots from your car or areas where mildew or algae may have been growing. Over time, this negatively affects the appearance of your concrete surface and detracts from your home's curb appeal. Asphalt is darker and is less likely to show spots or stains. This helps to ensure your driveway looks great at all times.

While concrete is a popular option for a driveway, that doesn't mean that it's always the best material for every homeowner. Asphalt may be perfect for your driveway and your household. If you're ready to learn more about installing an asphalt driveway outside of your home, contact McNally's Asphalt Services to obtain more information. We bring over three generations of experience to any job. Schedule your consultation today.