Frequently Asked Questions

Asphalt is primarily made of two components: a bitumen binder and mineral aggregates. Bitumen is a byproduct of the petroleum refining process and acts as a glue to hold the aggregates together. Mineral aggregates, such as sand, gravel, or crushed stone, make up the majority of the asphalt mixture and provide its strength and stability. These aggregates are carefully selected and graded to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the asphalt surface.

Concrete paving involves the process of creating hard, durable surfaces using a mixture of cement, water, and aggregates, such as sand or gravel. The mixture is poured and shaped into the desired form, and then allowed to harden and cure. Concrete paving is commonly used for sidewalks, driveways, patios, and other outdoor surfaces due to its strength, durability, and low maintenance requirements.

Asphalt and concrete are both popular choices for paving applications, but they have some key differences:

• Material composition: Asphalt is made of a bitumen binder and mineral aggregates, while concrete is composed of cement, water, and aggregates.
• Installation and curing time: Asphalt can be installed and cured more quickly than concrete, allowing for faster completion of projects and less disruption to traffic or property access.
• Cost: Asphalt is generally less expensive to install and maintain compared to concrete.
• Weather resistance: Asphalt is more resistant to cold temperatures and can flex with temperature changes, reducing the likelihood of cracks. Concrete, on the other hand, is more resistant to heat and can withstand higher temperatures without softening or deforming.

The cost to repave a driveway can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the driveway, the materials used (asphalt or concrete), the condition of the existing surface, and any additional features or customization options. To get an accurate estimate for your driveway repaving project, we recommend contacting J & J Asphalt for a consultation and personalized quote based on your specific needs.

If you have any further questions or require more information about our services, Contact us today. One of our experienced representatives would love to answer your questions.

Among various driveway options, concrete driveways are known for lasting the longest. When properly installed and maintained, a concrete driveway can have a lifespan of 30 to 50 years or even more. This durability is due to the inherent properties of concrete, its resistance to weathering, and its ability to withstand heavy loads from vehicles.

Yes, generally speaking, asphalt is typically cheaper than concrete when it comes to upfront installation costs. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Materials Cost: The materials used for asphalt paving, such as asphalt binder and aggregates, tend to be less expensive than the cement and aggregates used in concrete.
2. Installation Process: Asphalt paving often requires less labor and time compared to concrete paving, which can help reduce installation costs.
3. Quicker Installation: Asphalt can be installed more quickly than concrete because it sets faster. This can result in lower labor costs and less disruption to the property.
4. Maintenance: While asphalt may have lower upfront costs, it might require more frequent maintenance and repairs over its lifespan, which can contribute to higher long-term costs.

However, it’s important to consider the trade-offs between asphalt and concrete beyond just the upfront costs. Concrete driveways generally have a longer lifespan and require less frequent maintenance compared to asphalt driveways. Over the long term, you might end up spending more on maintenance and repairs for an asphalt driveway compared to a concrete driveway.

When making a decision between asphalt and concrete for your paving project, consider factors such as your budget, the expected lifespan of the driveway, the climate in your area, maintenance requirements, and your aesthetic preferences. It’s also a good idea to consult with our J&J Asphalt local paving contractors to get accurate cost estimates for your specific project.