Paver Stone Vs. Asphalt
If you are a homeowner that is building or remodeling your driveway, you may be thinking about the different types of materials you can use for this area of your property. Driveways see heavy use and are continuously exposed to the elements, including rain and snow, de-icing chemicals and UV rays from sunlight. These factors can degrade the surface of driveways, so you must consider the capabilities of different materials, such as paver stones and asphalt. Does this Spark an idea?
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About Asphalt
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Asphalt is a building material made of aggregates such as rock, sand, gravel and slag along with binders and fillers generally made from residues, called bitumens, left over from the petroleum industry. Other components are often added to increase certain features of the material such as waterproofing or sound insulation. Asphalt has been used as a surfacing materials for many decades and continues to be used for surfaces in communities throughout the United States.
Advantages of Asphalt
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Asphalt has many advantages over other materials. It is inexpensive to initially construct surfaces with asphalt and also inexpensive to repair. Asphalt is quick to install and can be used two to four days after installation, according to the BradleyAsphaltServices site. Asphalt’s dark surfaces also helps to absorb sunlight to melt snow, avoiding the heavy use of de-icing chemicals. Cracks from expansion and contraction of the surface can be easily repaired.
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Disadvantages of Asphalt
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Though a durable and serviceable material, asphalt is not a very attractive surface for residential use. The surface is black or gray and does not come in other colors. It can develop cracks that are unsightly. Asphalt can soften in hot climates and requires re-sealing every three years.
Pavers
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Paver stones, also called pavers, are small, individual cast pieces of concrete, brick or other materials that are assembled into patterns for driveways, patios and walkways. They are usually made from concrete, brick or stone. The pavers are cut or molded into various shapes to allow for placement into a variety of designs, from the simple to the elaborate.
Advantages of Paver Stones
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Paver stones provide a high-quality surfaces that increase the beauty and value of your home. They come in a variety of colors and textures, and can be laid into a wide range of designs to complement your exterior home design. Paving stones do not crack, sag or shift, according to the PacificPavingStone site. They are cheap to repair, only requiring replacement of individual stones.
Disadvantages of Paver Stones
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Paving stones generally cost more than asphalt for driveways and other surfaces. Their cost may be prohibitive for some construction purposes. They are not a good choice for high- traffic areas that may see spilling of oil or other deposits that can stain the surfaces. Under these circumstances, pavers would require constant cleaning to maintain their appearance. Pavers can shift and weeds grow up in the sand between the paver stones.
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References
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