Learn the differences between these landscaping superstars
Asphalt roads use bitumen for flexibility and strength, while pavement combines materials like concrete, asphalt, and gravel for your driveways and walkways.
Asphalt costs $7 to $15 per square foot, while pavement runs $6 to $12, so your upfront pricing stays comparable between options.
Your climate determines the better choice: asphalt resists cracking in cold weather, while pavement handles heat better without becoming tacky on hot days.
Hiring a local asphalt company provides reliable guidance on material selection and professional installation, ensuring your driveway or pathway lasts for decades.
You might hear people use asphalt and pavement interchangeably, but they are two different materials. If you are considering one or the other for your driveway, walkway, or other landscaping needs, it’s important you know the key differences between the two before you make a decision—asphalt, for instance, is better in colder climates while pavement thrives in warm places. Read on to learn what makes asphalt and pavement distinct from one another so you can choose the best option for your home.
Asphalt is a paving material made from hot Bitumen, a dark, petroleum-based liquid substance found in the earth. Pavement, however, is made from a mix of materials, which might include asphalt but can also include concrete and gravel. A binding material ensures that the materials adhere and become a solid mass.
Asphalt is often used for roads as it is more flexible than pavement, allowing it to absorb the shock from cars better than pavement. Pavement is more commonly found on sidewalks and pathways.
| Type of Difference | Asphalt | Pavement |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | Must be sealed months after installation, then every 2-3 years | Regular power-washing is all that is needed |
| Lifespan | 30 years | 50 years |
| Cost | $7 to $15 per square foot | $6 to $12 per square foot |
| Installation | Ready in 24 to 48 hours | Takes several days to cure |
| Durability | Can withstand heavy loads and traffic | Cracks easier than asphalt; better suited to walkways |
The main difference between pavement and asphalt is that because of asphalt’s flexibility, it is much better at withstanding heavy loads, such as that from motor vehicles. It’s also able to be installed and ready for use within a day or two, while pavement requires several days to cure. There are other differences to consider, however, before making a decision for your home.
Asphalt, while slightly less expensive upfront, does require more maintenance than pavement, which can make it a costlier option in the long run. Asphalt needs to be sealed regularly—every few years—while pavement can be power washed every now and then but is by-and-large maintenance free.
The materials are priced similarly, with the cost of asphalt running between $7 and $15 per square foot and pavement running between $6 and $12 per square foot. That said, pavement has a longer lifespan and requires less maintenance than asphalt.
Asphalt is less prone to cracking in colder climates—the material is less porous, so water isn’t able to soak through and freeze. Asphalt is also more flexible than pavement, allowing it to adapt to changes in soil pressure. This can be useful if you live somewhere with clayey soil that expands and contracts with changes in moisture. That said, asphalt can become tacky in high heat, making pavement a better option in warm climates.
Asphalt lasts between 15 and 30 years, while pavement can last for 30 to 50 years with proper maintenance.
Unfortunately, asphalt is only available in one option: black, and with zero finish options. Pavement, on the other hand, can be customized to match a home’s aesthetic and design. Homeowners can choose from a variety of colors and patterns.
Both asphalt and pavement will require the services of a local asphalt or paving pro, but it’s worth noting that the installation process for asphalt is much quicker than pavement—it dries and is ready for use within a day or two. Pavement takes several days to cure before it can handle any pressure or use.
Archie did a good job cleaning up the driveway before he laid down the sealer. It looks good. He was gracious and even helped me bring up my groceries. His rate was comparable to another company who came out to give me a quote and he talked to me personally rather than just text me a quote...
Pro Seal Roofing & PavingD1 Roofing delivers outstanding service from beginning to end, backed by a strong warranty and expert teams. I highly recommend them for their excellence in meeting and surpassing expectations with unmatched communication. Choosing D1 Roofing was flawless decision
Division 1 Roofing LLCFirst of all, the gentleman I dealt with (Cam?) was very responsive to my many questions and concerns throughout the project, which is a huge plus to me. From the first time I met him for the estimate all the way til the completion of the job, he and his crew were professional and respectful....
All Star Paving and SealingWe had a 20+ year old landscape lighting system that needed replacement. Midwest Lightscapes worked with us to design a much improved lighting system, lighting the exterior of the house and the back yard. Installation of the 45 light system took one and one-half days, and went very smoothly....
Midwest LightscapesWorking with Peter and his crew was a breeze. They were exceptionally polite and did a neat job to repair and seal our driveway. I will definitely talk to them first for additional work.
Central PavingWe hired Jim to replace our hardwood floors with new hardwood. He and his helper Jerry did a fantastic job. Their work ethic is impeccable!! We would highly recommend McColl Floors!
The preformed a really good job the staff is incredible never been so happy with my home, A brand new driveway is like a face lift!!
Pristine PavingCalled Mark on a Thursday morning. Not really knowing if he could help me or not. I was having driveway, flooding issues due to a clogged channel drain and I was trying to figure out what direction to take. Heavy rains had come on Monday and again on Thursday leading to flooding in my garage...
Mark Rodgers ConstructionHad already met with 2 other contractors before Blue Ring, and Blue Ring's price quote for the work was better than either of the other 2, and the came out the next morning and cleaned up a very large fallen tree branch from a storm that was blocking my driveway. Work was completed in...
Blue Ring Residential Services, LLCHIRED TO CLEAR SNOW FROM MY DRIVEWAY. HUGE SNOW STORM COMES, THEY DON'T SHOW. MULTIPLE PHONE CALLS TO ''SNOW EMERGENCY'' NUMBER PROVIDED WERE IGNORED. UNRELIABLE, UNPROFESSIONAL. ALMOST TWO DAYS SINCE SNOW STOPPED, STILL NO WORD. THEY DID SHOW UP A COUPLE OF TIMES LAST WINTER, BUT VERY...
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