What’s the Difference Between Pavement and Asphalt?

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.

What Are the Differences Between Asphalt and Pavement?

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.

Pavement vs. Asphalt: Side-by-Side Comparison

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.

Maintenance

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.

Cost

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.

Weather-resistance

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. 

Lifespan

Asphalt lasts between 15 and 30 years, while pavement can last for 30 to 50 years with proper maintenance. 

Appearance

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.

Installation

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.