Bob Oesterling of Oesterling's Concrete in Center Township says concrete is more durable and has a longer life span than asphalt. However, it is also more expensive. Price is just one of the factors to keep in mind when making a paving decision.

If you’re going to pave your driveway, you really only have two choices: asphalt or concrete.

Although made from the same materials, they have numerous differences. For starters, the adhesive in asphalt is tar, and the adhesive in concrete is cement.

For the most part, asphalt is the cheaper material.

The cost of an asphalt driveway generally ranges between $2.50 and $4 per square foot. Concrete is more expensive, generally costing $4 to $6 per square foot for a basic installation, and it can cost more depending on different finishes and other details or decorations.

Concrete is the more durable material. In terms of longevity, asphalt driveways last about 20 to 30 years, while concrete driveways can last up to 40 to 50 years with proper maintenance.

“Definitely more durable and longer life span,” said Bob Oesterling, owner of Oesterling’s Concrete in Center Township.

In terms of maintenance, asphalt driveways should be sealed about six months or a year after installation, and then should be sealed every three or five years. This can make them last up to 30 years.

Concrete driveways do not really need to be sealed, but it can preserve the looks and the finish.

“They should be sealed, especially the first year,” Oesterling said, saying they should be sealed about every two years after that.

Concrete also requires degreasing to clean any oil stains. Oesterling said dish detergent can help remove grease.

Cracks in both materials can be repaired, but cracks in asphalt are easier to fix and they can more easily be blended in than cracks in concrete. Additionally, asphalt can easily be resurfaced.

Weather and climate are other things to consider.

In colder climates with harsh winters, concrete can crack and road salt can create pits.

Oesterling said sealing can help prevent pitting, and driveways made up of smaller concrete slabs are less likely to crack.

In hot climates, the tar in asphalt can become soft and deform.

Concrete is much easier to get in different designs, colors and finishes. Asphalt has fewer options.

“There are a lot more decorating options with concrete,” Oesterling said.

Despite the many differences, there are some similarities.

Both need to have gravel bases before being applied.

Both also need time to cure before use, which allows the material to dry and strengthen.

Asphalt takes a few hours, while concrete takes about seven days.