Asphalt is a popular and effective option for paving and works well in countless situations, from commercial parking lots to residential driveways and everything in between. But there are some persistent misconceptions about asphalt held by the general public, and we think it’s important to set the record straight.

1. Asphalt Driveways Don’t Last

While it’s true that the average asphalt driveway won’t last as long as concrete in the same place, when installed correctly and kept up, asphalt can still last twenty five years or more even under daily use. 

2. Asphalt Has a High Carbon Footprint and Is Bad For the Environment

We are happy to report that one of the biggest issues surrounding asphalt production is no longer a problem! Asphalt manufacturers have been radically modernized in recent years and now operate with drastically reduced carbon footprints. Given that old asphalt is continuously recycled to fuel new production, asphalt in 2019 is actually a far greener option than concrete. 

3. Asphalt Contaminates Groundwater

Even though asphalt does break down down as it ages, it does not release any hazardous chemical compounds in the process and does not contaminate groundwater or nearby soil. This very fact is why asphalt linings are frequently used for public reservoirs and landfills. 

4. Asphalt Installation is Expensive

Just as with any other construction project, quality work comes with a price. But, given the long lifespan of the paving surface and the benefits involved, the cost of the installation and materials over the lifespan of the driveway, parking lot, or road is remarkably small.

5.  Asphalt is High Maintenance

Asphalt requires more service than concrete, this is true. However, this service is generally limited to sealcoating or crack filling, both processes that can be completed in a quick visit for little cost. Concrete driveways, facing the same type or level of damage, generally cost up 45% more to repair. 

6. Asphalt Driveways Aren’t Good for Seasonal Weather

Asphalt is better than concrete for extreme temperatures and weather. It doesn’t react to snow melt chemicals, warms quicker under the sun to help melt snow and ice, and can flex through hot and cold snaps instead of breaking like rigid concrete slabs. 

7. Asphalt is Easy to DIY

There are plenty of guides for DIY asphalt pouring online. But it doesn’t take much reading to learn that a proper, high quality asphalt installation requires practice, the proper materials, and heavy equipment. From the depth of the sublayers, the grade, and the actual application, asphalt paving and sealcoating jobs are best done by a pro to ensure the surface holds up over time.

Since 1986, Stripe A Lot has been providing quality asphalt and paving work for homeowners and businesses across West Michigan. We’re a local, family-owned and operated company dedicated to quality work and outstanding customer service. Call us today at 616-772-2559 for a free estimate!