Just because your commercial driveway is driveable does not mean it does not need improving. Your driveway is a part of your commercial building you likely will not pay much notice to until it needs repairing. Potholes and cracks can make it difficult for transport trucks to manoeuvre around your facility. A broken down driveway also looks unprofessional. While other materials are cheaper upfront, they do not hold up to the test of time and outdoor elements as well as concrete. Bortolo and Sons lists down some advantages you will benefit from once you make the switch to a concrete driveway:
Durable
Concrete is built to endure heavy loads frequently. Asphalt flexes and heavy loads like a truck can cause it to break. It is incredibly resilient under pressure and can hold up well against busy traffic for years and years. On average a concrete driveway can last 50-60% longer than asphalt. Expect a concrete driveway to last between 20 to 40 years. That is why it is the preferred material in most commercial parking lots.
Less maintenance
Asphalt and cobblestone driveways require far more maintenance than concrete does. A concrete driveway simply needs a good scrubbing with a power wash now and then. You could also use a brush or leaf blower to remove debris and make your premises look even more beautiful, but it is not necessary.
You could also use sealers to prevent moisture absorption and protect against salt. Concentration joints can be used to reduce cracking when concrete shrinks in colder temperatures. The binder in an asphalt begins to dry out the day it is installed. Sealants need to be applied to asphalt periodically to prevent this, but it still does not last as long as concrete.
Cooler in the summer
Because concrete is light in colour, it reflects heat and light from the sun. This makes its surface cooler than dark asphalt. Your customers and employees will not have to be cautious of an overheated driveway if it is made of concrete. There are also oils that evaporate from asphalt driveways when it is first installed. This slick substance can get brought indoors by people and vehicles, especially when the weather is hot.
Attractive
A concrete driveway looks uniform and sleek, and there are plenty of decorative options if you want something extra. You can choose from coloured stamps, exposed aggregate, or unique embellishments to give your commercial property character and charm.
Eco-friendly
Concrete is the most recycled building material in the world. It also has fewer petroleum components than most other materials. It requires less energy to produce and fit concrete than most other driveway materials. Asphalt requires a lot of energy to heat it to 95-120’C so it can be placed on a driveway. It also has to be resealed every three to five years with more petroleum products.
You will be able to reap these benefits once you upgrade your commercial driveway to concrete. Call Bortolo & Sons to learn more about how we can help your business or home looks its best.