Sidewalks are to the city like the skin is to the body: the outside appearance is a reflection of what’s within. Similarly, a commercial establishment’s sidewalk will tell customers a great deal. Material selection is crucial to the project’s outcome, and it may make a more positive impression. Concrete and asphalt are the two most common choices, and both are explained here.
Asphalt Sidewalks: Their Pros and Cons
For more than 90 years, asphalt has been a top choice for public walkways. Not only does it have a high yielding property, but it’s also resistant to disintegration and cracking. Asphalt may be formed and stamped to resemble cobblestone, brick, and other materials. It’s commonly found in zoos, shopping malls, parks, and other highly-trafficked outdoor areas. Although it’s very durable, it’s very sensitive to the sun’s rays. When it’s exposed to heavy sunlight, it may start to melt, and exposure to soil erosion or rain may damage it as well.
Sidewalks Made of Concrete: The Benefits and Disadvantages
As far as sidewalk applications are concerned, concrete presents significant advantages over asphalt. It lasts longer; up to 50 years in some cases, where asphalt lasts a maximum of 20 years. Because concrete isn’t as sensitive to the sun and other elements, it requires less maintenance in the long term. It’s so durable that it’s a popular choice in high-load places such as driveways and streets. Although most sidewalks don’t encounter such heavy traffic, they’re constantly exposed to the elements, which makes concrete a great choice.
Think About the Weather
One of the first things to think about is the climate in the project location. In a colder climate with hard winters, there’s no denying that asphalt is better for parking lots, driveways, and roads. Here’s why:
- Concrete is more likely to contract and expand with frost, causing deterioration and damage.
- Concrete deteriorates with the application of salt, which is used to melt ice and snow.
- Asphalt isn’t affected by cold and doesn’t deteriorate from the use of salt.
- Asphalt absorbs the sun’s heat, causing ice and snow to melt quicker than it would with concrete.
While there are many reasons to choose asphalt in colder climates, the opposite applies to warmer areas. Concrete is better in such areas because asphalt tends to soften up in the heat. Local Concrete Contractors can provide more information on the advantages of concrete sidewalks.
Impress Customers With Durable Sidewalks
Let customers know that the company cares about the minor details. The concrete experts can help businesses of all sizes achieve their goals by providing solutions and repairs for sidewalks and curbs. Not only do they do installation and repair work, but they can also provide the aesthetic touches that truly impress current and potential customers.
Contact the Pros Today
While there’s much to be said about the durability of asphalt in many applications, concrete is a better choice for sidewalks. To learn more about the advantages of concrete sidewalks and pathways, visit the website. Alternatively, customers can call a Concrete Contractor to request a free, no-obligation work estimate.