Do I install interlocking concrete or asphalt in my driveway?

Featured product: Blu 80 Smooth paver 

This is a very common dilemma that homeowners are faced with upon preparing for their outdoor renovations. Let it be known that there are many reasons why one should opt for interlocking concrete over its lesser alternative, plain black asphalt. Here are a few of the many advantages: 

Design and patterns

Interlocking concrete is available in endless colors, textures and dimensions to create the patterns, mosaics that will increase your home’s curb appeal and make your front entrance stand out. For more details on patterns, press here. 

Featured product: Industria Smooth paver

Color

Asphalt only gives you one choice. Black. In contrast, interlock offers a variety of colors and textures, which can accent, highlight and compliment your existing home’s colors and features. Color is key in tying your front entrance to your home and, ultimately, creating one continuous and harmonious look.

Ease of repair

With interlock pavements, if damage, cracks or spills occur, affected pavers can be easily removed and replaced with new units. Keeping spare units from the initial installation lets you easily switch the stained units when these circumstances occur. On the other hand, when asphalt cracks, suffers staining or other damages, it does not repair as well. Coating and patching are possible, but never look as good as new.

Featured product: Victorien paver 

Flex of the system

Interlock paver systems are naturally flexible. In other words, interlock pavement systems flex with the movement of the ground during freeze-thaw cycles, and then gradually settle back down. Asphalt is not a flexible system. In most cases when the ground moves, asphalt will move and crack with it. The seams between the pavers allow for flexibility in the system so cracks occur in the joints and not on the pavers.

Property value

The natural stone appeal of interlock is arguably far more pleasing to the eye. Therefore, it is a far better investment than asphalt in terms of increasing the resale value and curb appeal of your home.

Durability

Point blank, interlock pavers just last longer than asphalt. In fact, they also require less maintenance and repair over the years. After all, no one wants potholes in their driveway. Techo-Bloc offers a transferable life-time warranty on interlock pavers that cover matters like salt resistance, which is especially crucial for those who inhabit northern regions. In short, asphalt cannot stand time like interlocking concrete can.

Featured product: Flagstone 60 mm patio slab

Costs in maintenance and repair

Maintenance costs also need to be evaluated when considering whether to choose asphalt or concrete products. As previously mentioned, there is virtually little to no maintenance required with interlock pavers other than perhaps a pressure wash from time to time based on your tolerance to dirt. However, asphalt involves sealing costs every 2-3 years in order to help keep it looking new and in good shape. Regular maintenance is a must to keeping asphalt looking it’s best. With interlock, sealing is an option, but certainly not a necessity as it will look beautiful for years to come regardless.

READY TO MAKE THE NEXT MOVE?