Is Asphalt or Concrete Better for a Parking Lot?

Is asphalt or concrete better for a parking lot?

Some people say that asphalt is better for a parking lot because it's cheaper and easier to repair. Others argue that concrete is the way to go since it lasts much longer and can be more aesthetically pleasing.

Who's right?
​
Well, both are strong arguments, but there are pros and cons to each type of material. Let's take a closer look at the factors:

Factors to Decide...

Since this is a decision that depends on your specific needs, there are a few factors you should consider:

Design and Aesthetic

Picking the right pavement material for your parking lot is important for both aesthetic and functional reasons. If you're looking for a wide range of color options, concrete is the way to go. Concrete can be stained or tinted in various hues, giving you plenty of options to create the perfect look for your business.

Asphalt, on the other hand, is generally only available in blacktop. However, a dark asphalt parking lot can provide a nice contrast against white commercial buildings. Both concrete and asphalt are durable and long-lasting options for functionality. 
​
However, concrete is slightly more susceptible to cracking in extreme weather conditions. Asphalt is also more forgiving if your parking lot isn't perfectly level.

Climate

When choosing between asphalt and concrete for your commercial parking lots, one important factor to consider is the climate in your area. If you live in an area with cold winters, concrete may be the better option. Concrete is less likely to crack in freezing temperatures than asphalt, making it a more durable choice.
​
However, if you live in a hot climate, asphalt may be the better material. Asphalt is less likely to soften and become oily in extreme heat, making it easier to maintain. Ultimately, the best material for your parking lot will depend on the specific climate conditions in your area.

Longevity

Concrete is known to last up to 50 years, while an asphalt parking lot can last around 30 years with preventative maintenance. If you're looking for a durable option, concrete is the way to go. However, asphalt is a more affordable option in the short term.

Important: No matter which type of pavement you choose for your parking lot, it's important to maintain it regularly. Both asphalt and concrete should be sealed and patched by joint sealing to prevent cracking and other damage. By keeping your pavement in good condition, you can extend its lifespan significantly.

Cost

Asphalt is generally cheaper than concrete, making it a more affordable option for many businesses. However, the initial cost of installing a concrete lot may be higher than asphalt. In the long run, however, concrete is the more affordable option. See our costs guide.

Repair and Maintenance

​Asphalt is generally easier to repair than concrete. Asphalt can be patched relatively easily if there's a pothole or other damage to your parking lot. On the other hand, concrete requires more time and effort to fix any damage.

Restrictions

Asphalt parking lots are a popular choice for many businesses because they can be installed relatively quickly and are ready to use within a few days. In contrast, concrete parking lots take longer to set and cure, and it can take up to a week before they are ready for use. 

---

Perks of Choosing Asphalt for a Parking Lot

Noise Reduction

Asphalt is a quieter surface than concrete, making it a good choice for businesses that want to minimize noise pollution. The main reason for this is that asphalt absorbs sound better than concrete.

Ease of Repair

Asphalt is also easier to repair than concrete, as mentioned above. Asphalt can be patched relatively easily if there's a pothole or other damage to your parking lot.

Attractive Appearance

Asphalt parking lots are available in various colors, making them more attractive than concrete parking lots. Blacktop is the most common color, but you can also find asphalt parking lots in brown, green, and gray shades.

Ease of Maintenance

Asphalt is easy to clean and doesn't require special products or sealants like concrete. But it may require immediate maintenance in some situations like oil spills.

Time to Install

Asphalt parking lots can be installed relatively quickly and are ready to use within a few days. In contrast, concrete parking lots take longer to set and cure, and it can take up to a week before they are ready for use.

---

Perks of Choosing Concrete for a Parking Lot

Strength

Concrete is a more robust material than asphalt, making it a good choice for businesses that expect a high traffic volume. Concrete can withstand the weight of cars and other vehicles without cracking or breaking.

Better Lighting

Concrete surfaces reflect light better than asphalt surfaces, making them a good choice for businesses that want to improve the lighting in their parking lot. Maintaining adequate lighting in your parking lot is important for safety and security.

Better In Summers

Asphalt becomes very hot during the summer months, while concrete remains relatively cool. If you're looking for a parking lot that will be comfortable to walk on during the summer, concrete is better.

Decorative Options

With so many colors and textures to choose from, concrete offers more decorative options than asphalt. If you're looking for a parking lot that will stand out and make a statement, concrete is the better option.

Minimal Maintenance

Concrete requires relatively less maintenance than asphalt. You don't need to seal or patch concrete as you do with asphalt, saving you time and money in the long run.

---

FAQs

​Which type of concrete is used for parking lots?

​Two types of concrete are commonly used for parking lots: Cast-in-place and post-tension. Cast-in-place is the most common type, and it's installed by pouring the concrete into place. Post-tension is a type of concrete reinforced with steel cables, making it more durable than cast-in-place concrete.

Is asphalt cheaper than concrete?

Asphalt pavement is typically cheaper than concrete, but the final price will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the parking lot and other ones.

---

Conclusion

There are pros and cons to both asphalt and concrete lots, so it's important to weigh the options and decide which is the best fit for your business. Asphalt is a good choice for companies that want a parking lot that's easy to repair and maintain, while concrete is a good choice for businesses that need a parking lot that's strong and durable.

For a custom parking lot repair / paving quote, get in touch with us here.