Paver Driveway Vs. Blacktop

Driveways are an important part of a homeowner's private property. They are no longer just used for parking cars, they're also used as play and work areas. There are many different designs, styles, colors and materials used in the construction of driveways. Concrete pavers and asphalt are two of these types of substances.

Pavers

Paver driveways are formally known as concrete pavers and are often referred to as paving stones. They are individually cut concrete pieces interlocked to form a particular pattern when they are assembled to form a driveway. Concrete pavers are produced in various textures, form different patterns and have a variety of color.

Blacktop

Blacktop driveways are asphalt driveways and asphalt is a substance that mainly consists of left over petroleum taken from the bottom of oil drums. This substance is mixed with sand or crushed rock and cement. Pavement is another name for this material and it is commonly used for streets and highways. Asphalt used to pave an area with just a black appearance is called blacktop.

Comparisons

When comparing concrete paver with blacktop driveways, keep in mind that concrete pavers are typically easier to install and maintain. Blacktop (or asphalt) driveways can withstand the rigors of weather and are less prone to cracks and wear since blacktop has the ability to expand.

References

• Concrete Network: Concrete Paver Information
• Concrete Network: Thickness of Concrete Pavers
• National Asphalt Paver Association: Hot Mix Asphalt