Why does a concrete driveway add more value to my home than an asphalt driveway?

Most homes have a driveway, often leading to a garage and for parking vehicles. Asphalt and concrete are two leading substances used to create attractive, functional drives from the street to the home. Although both are commonly used, concrete adds more value to a property than an asphalt drive, for several reasons.

Concrete lasts longer.

Most homeowners expect their driveways to last many years without requiring considerable repairs or frequent replacement. Since a drive is a costly investment, it should be reliably usable for long periods of time. While both concrete and asphalt hold up fairly well, even during seasonal weather changes that can be rough or damaging, asphalt tends to break down more easily, leading to potholes and repair work that can be expensive. On the other hand, concrete is more durable and holds up well under extreme heat or cold, ice, or heavy rain.

Concrete is neater and cleaner.

When first constructed, asphalt driveways look nice and can be readily swept free of leaves or plowed free of snow. However, over time, cracks and potholes develop, making it unsightly. The asphalt can lose its fresh new color and begin to disintegrate. In hot weather, it gets sticky and clings to people’s shoes or pet paws, bringing it into the house to wedge in carpeting and furniture. Concrete chips less easily and is not usually picked up by people’s footwear or pets. It doesn’t change shape or develop potholes like asphalt does. Nor does it become uneven in color.

In conclusion. When looking at homes for sale in various price ranges, it becomes evident that those with concrete driveways cost more and hold their value longer. While this is not entirely due to the driveway alone, concrete drives offer added value to a homeowner’s property.