One for the Road

Pros and Cons of Concrete vs. Asphalt

With springtime here we figured it would be the perfect time to answer a frequent question we get.  Should I pour our new parking lot with concrete or asphalt?  The answer is; it depends.  Keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of each method.

The Pros of Concrete Installation - There are several benefits to building a commercial parking lot with concrete including:

• Better Suited for Hot Weather

• Less Maintenance

• Longer Life Span

• Additional Customization Options

The Cons of Concrete Installation - One of the biggest things to consider when choosing between a concrete and asphalt parking lot is the climate. In fact, many of the cons of concrete installation are centered around its reaction to below freezing temperatures.

• Susceptible to Salt Damage

• More Expensive to Install/ Costly Maintenance

• Long Curing Time

• Water Runoff Management Required

The Pros of Asphalt Installation - Asphalt installation offers many potential benefits, including:

• Easy Installation

• Not Affected by Cold Temperatures

• Less Expensive to Install

• Easier to Repair

The Cons of Asphalt Installation - Asphalt parking lots do have a few potential drawbacks, including:

• More Preventative Maintenance

• Surface Damage from Gasoline

• Shorter Lifespan

• Negatively Affected by Heat

There is no definite "winner" in the battle between asphalt and concrete; the decision comes down to which is best for your climate, your budget, and your tolerance for maintenance needs.

Endres Northwest, Inc. (ENI) has been serving the needs of commercial clients throughout the Portland, OR area since 2004. Our clients include retail, medical, office, restaurant, education, and industrial complexes. Contact us today to learn more about our services.