Concrete is a building material made from a mixture of Portland cement, sand, gravel and water. In many cases, other materials are added into the mixture to improve its quality, physical properties as well as decrease the cost. It is a fact that concrete can be more costly than asphalt paving but it is considered stronger and more durable. Aside from that, concrete has the following advantages:
- Concrete lasts longer.
- Concrete needs less repair and maintenance.
- Concrete is safer.
- Concrete creates less noise.
- Concrete is not affected by weather conditions.
- Concrete is environmentally friendly.
- Concrete has the capability to bear heavy load and traffic.
- Concrete has a clean appearance.
In many places, concrete is a preferred road surface material because it actually costs less in the long run and costs less for users as well. It can also be used in residential applications. Although not as heavily used, driveways, patios, walkways and other parts of a home can greatly benefit with concrete paving. Concrete paving can brighten up and beautify a home while serving its purpose for a long time. And it doesn’t have to look dull, too. Concrete can be colored and patterned to create attractive designs that can enhance any structure.
In some cases concrete is highly recommended depending on how an area is to be used but for typical residential purposes the choice between concrete, asphalt and other materials as a top layer on paving is up to the homeowner.
