When it comes to repaving an existing parking lot (or paving a new parking lot) there are two options: asphalt and concrete. It is a hotly debated topic that has many scratching their heads. Which pavement has the most benefits? Which will last longer? Which makes the most sense for your specific job and, most importantly, your budget? Quite frankly, which pavement is the best?
“Concrete and asphalt are comparable in many ways,” said Scott Haislip, director of streets and roads with the American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA).
Concrete or Asphalt Parking Lots? That is the Question
“There are three main factors to consider: initial cost, time to first rehabilitation, and cost of total reconstruction or major rehabilitation at the 40- to 50-year mark,” said Dave Newcomb, P.E., PhD, vice president of research and technology with the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA).
Initial Cost (Plus Total Cost of Owenership)
While cost should never be your primary determining factor, it is typically at the top of the list. On average, the initial cost of concrete is approximately 35% higher than the cost of asphalt. However, we all know that initial cost is only one part of the overall financial picture. To get a better understanding of just how much your parking lot will cost you it is important to look at Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
According to the Concrete Paving Association of Minnesota, federally funded studies have shown that concrete Interstate pavements cost 13-28% less in the long run than asphalt Interstate pavements.
Time to First Rehabilitation (Durability)
One of the reasons that concrete boasts a lower TCO is because it lasts almost twice as long as asphalt. When concrete is installed correctly, it has a life expectancy of about 30 to 40 years. Asphalt, meanwhile, typically lasts from 15 to 18 years, depending on maintenance and outstanding conditions. According to the Minnesota Department of Transportation the average life expectancy of concrete pavement is 27.5 years before repair, while asphalt pavement has an average life expectancy of only 15.5 years before the first rehabilitation.
Cost of Reconstruction
Once again, concrete tends to cost 35% more than asphalt.
The Final Verdict – Asphalt or Concrete?
So why do we see so many more asphalt parking lots than concrete? Well, it comes down to two things.
- Asphalt is much, much easier to work with.
- Cost of maintenance
One of the biggest advantages asphalt has over concrete is the ability to install resurfacing layers (overlay). This provides a much more cost effective alternative to complete reconstruction. When concrete pavement has reached the end of its lifespan, you will need to completely remove the existing concrete and reconstruct the area.
Still, concrete plays an important role in parking lot construction. Because it is so durable, concrete is often used in high stress areas, such as entrances and exits, dumpster pads, and frames (curbing).
PTG Enterprises – Specializing in Concrete and Asphalt Construction
PTG Enterprises are experts with commercial pave jobs. We have managed hundreds of pavement projects throughout Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia and have the experience you need. Our crews are extremely familiar with all types of paving, so you know the job will look professional and last for years to come.
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When you choose PTG, you can expect a fair proposal, professionalism, and quality work. That is our promise to you.
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Tags: asphalt, Concrete, parking lots
