Concrete vs Asphalt Parking Lots: Which is Right For You?

Parking lots take up between 50 and 60% of public space in bigger American cities. In cities with lots of people and not a lot of public transportation, parking space is crucial. 

If you’re looking to create a much-needed parking lot, there are two popular parking lot materials for you to choose from. Your options are concrete or asphalt, each with its own pros and cons. 

Keep reading to learn more about the concrete vs asphalt debate to learn which one is right for your project. 

Concrete Parking Lots

Concrete pavements are common in the US, but concrete parking lots are not as popular. This is theorized to have something to do with the lack of knowledge about the benefits of concrete. 

Pros of Concrete Parking Lots

Concrete doesn’t react to heat, which is ideal for parking lots that don’t have any coverage. Concrete is also a lighter color which means it gets less hot when exposed to the sun. 

Concrete needs very little maintenance after it has been installed. As long as no damage happens to the concrete, its lifespan is much longer than asphalt.

Concrete is also easier to work with in terms of design. Concrete can be shaped and painted over easily. Since the parking lot is the first impression your customers get from your business, having more design options is an advantage.

Cons of Concrete Parking Lots

Parking lot concrete needs a drainage system. Without drainage systems, the concrete gets damaged by long-term exposure to water that pools on it. 

The drawback most businesses have with concrete parking lots is that it takes a few more days to install than asphalt. This also translates to a higher cost for the installation. Many businesses don’t think the delay and cost is worth it. 

Asphalt Parking Lots

Asphalt is the most common parking lot material in the US. Since it is the more affordable option, many businesses will opt for it. But this doesn’t mean it’s the ideal parking lot material. 

Pros of Asphalt Parking Lots

Asphalt’s key benefits are that it’s quick and cheap to install. Asphalt only needs a few days for installation before it is ready to use, which is better for your business. Preventative maintenance is also more affordable since it is quick and cheap to redo the top layer of asphalt if it’s damaged. 

Asphalt parking lots are also better for the environment. Old asphalt can be ground up and reused in future projects. 

Cons of Asphalt Parking Lots

Asphalt becomes a problem in areas with high temperatures. Because of its color and material, asphalt attracts heat. This results in a sticky and oily feel to the asphalt, which is unpleasant for the people using it. 

Choosing the Right Material for Parking Lots

Parking lots are the first things your customers see when they come to your business. Choosing the right material is an important business decision. 

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