Choosing between asphalt and concrete for your driveway is one of the biggest decisions you'll make for your property. Both have their place, and the "right" answer depends on your specific situation. As asphalt specialists in Mississippi, we'll give you an honest comparison - including when concrete might actually be the better choice.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Factor | Asphalt | Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Cost | $4-8/sq ft | $6-12/sq ft |
| Lifespan | 20-30 years | 30-40 years |
| Maintenance | Sealcoat every 2-3 years | Minimal (sealing optional) |
| Repairs | Easy, inexpensive | Difficult, expensive |
| Heat in Summer | Gets very hot | Stays cooler |
| Stain Resistance | Hides stains well | Shows stains |
| Installation Time | 1-2 days, usable in 2-3 days | 3-5 days, cure time 7+ days |
Cost: Installation and Long-Term
Upfront Installation
For a typical 600 square foot driveway in Rankin County:
- Asphalt: $2,400 - $4,800
- Concrete: $3,600 - $7,200
Asphalt typically costs 30-40% less to install than concrete.
Long-Term Cost of Ownership
This is where it gets interesting. Over 30 years:
Asphalt (30-year cost):
- Installation: $3,600
- Sealcoating (10x at $200): $2,000
- One resurfacing at year 15: $1,500
- Total: ~$7,100
Concrete (30-year cost):
- Installation: $5,400
- Sealing (optional, 3x at $150): $450
- Crack repairs: $200-500
- Total: ~$6,350
The Real Story
If you maintain both properly, concrete is slightly cheaper over 30 years. But if cash flow matters - and for most homeowners it does - asphalt's lower upfront cost and easier repairs make it more manageable financially.
Climate Performance in Mississippi
Our climate presents unique challenges for both materials:
Summer Heat (90F+)
Asphalt: Gets soft in extreme heat. Fresh sealcoat can become tacky. Dark color absorbs more heat (can exceed 140F surface temp).
Concrete: Stays cooler and more rigid. Better for areas where you park for long periods in sun.
Edge: Concrete
Heavy Rain (55+ inches/year)
Asphalt: Water runs off well when properly sealed. Unsealed asphalt absorbs water and deteriorates.
Concrete: Non-porous when sealed. Can develop cracks that allow water penetration.
Edge: Tie (both require proper maintenance)
Occasional Freezes
Asphalt: Flexible - handles freeze/thaw cycles well. Minor cracks stay minor.
Concrete: Rigid - cracks can form and expand with freeze/thaw. Once cracked, hard to repair invisibly.
Edge: Asphalt
Tree Roots
Asphalt: More flexible, can sometimes accommodate minor root growth. Easier to repair when roots cause damage.
Concrete: Roots crack and lift concrete slabs. Repairs are obvious and expensive.
Edge: Asphalt
Durability and Lifespan
Asphalt Lifespan: 20-30 Years
With proper maintenance (regular sealcoating, prompt crack repair), asphalt driveways in Mississippi typically last 20-30 years. The key is staying ahead of maintenance.
Concrete Lifespan: 30-40 Years
Concrete can last longer, but it's less forgiving. A well-installed concrete driveway can go 30-40 years, but cracks and stains accumulate over time and are difficult to address.
The Repair Factor
This is asphalt's biggest advantage:
- Asphalt repairs blend in. Patches, crack filling, and resurfacing make the driveway look uniform again.
- Concrete repairs are always visible. Patches never match the original color, and cracks leave permanent scars.
Maintenance Requirements
Asphalt Maintenance
- Sealcoating: Every 2-3 years ($150-400)
- Crack filling: As needed ($50-200)
- Cleaning: Annual power washing recommended
Asphalt Maintenance Supplies
- Driveway sealer for DIY sealcoating
- Crack filler for small cracks
- Driveway cleaner for oil stains
- Pressure washer for deep cleaning
Concrete Maintenance
- Sealing: Optional, every 3-5 years ($100-300)
- Cleaning: Regular sweeping, occasional power washing
- Stain treatment: Oil stains require degreaser and may not fully remove
Concrete Maintenance Supplies
- Concrete sealer for protection
- Concrete degreaser for oil stains
- Concrete crack filler
Appearance and Curb Appeal
Fresh Installation
Asphalt: Rich, deep black color. Uniform appearance. Classic look.
Concrete: Clean, light gray. Can be stamped, colored, or textured for custom looks. More design options.
After 5-10 Years
Asphalt: Fades to gray without sealcoating. With maintenance, stays dark and uniform.
Concrete: Develops patina, may show stains, cracks become visible. Stamped/colored concrete may fade.
Stain Visibility
Asphalt: Dark color hides oil drips, tire marks, and most stains.
Concrete: Light color shows every oil drip, rust stain, and tire mark. High-maintenance for appearance.
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Choose ASPHALT if:
- Budget is a primary concern
- You want easier, less expensive repairs
- You have trees near the driveway
- You prefer a classic dark appearance
- You don't mind regular sealcoating maintenance
- You want faster installation
- Oil drips from vehicles are common
Choose CONCRETE if:
- You want a custom decorative look (stamped, colored)
- Minimum maintenance is priority
- You're building a forever home and prioritize longevity
- The area gets extended direct sun exposure
- You prefer a lighter-colored driveway
- You're okay with visible repairs over time
Our Honest Take
For most Mississippi homeowners, asphalt is the practical choice. The lower upfront cost, easier repairs, and better performance with our occasional freezes make it the smarter investment. The maintenance commitment (sealcoating every 2-3 years) is minor compared to the benefits.
That said, if you're building your dream home and want a decorative stamped or colored surface, concrete can be beautiful - just go in with realistic expectations about staining and crack visibility over time.
Ready for a New Driveway?
Whether you're leaning toward asphalt or still deciding, we're happy to discuss your specific situation and provide a free estimate.
Get Your Free EstimateOr call us directly: (601) 813-2533