Concrete vs. Asphalt - The Facts
 

Q: What are some of the environmental benefits of concrete?

A: Aside from concrete being long lasting and durable, there are many other benefits to concrete including ease of design and construction, appearance versatility, economic benefits such as reduced energy costs, and environmental benefits.
 
Q:  What is the initial cost difference between concrete versus asphalt?

A:  The initial cost difference between construction with concrete versus asphalt depends on a variety of design elements such as pavement thickness, soil conditions, design criteria and /or equipment use for placement.  The savings, when using concrete are: the cost of mobilization of heavy equipment necessary to achieve high-density requirements for the subgrade and the lime rock base: the cost of base materials and labor for proper placement, and the cost of cut/fill to compensate for the base layer.
 
Q:  Can you control cracking problems in concrete paving?

A:  Certainly! Cracks typically occur during the first 24 to 48 hours when stresses created by the natural drying shrinkage exceed the tensile strength of concrete.  One can control a cracking problem in concrete paving by having a uniform subgrade support, performing proper curing immediately after final finish and placing proper control/contraction joint spacing within 12 hours after placement.
 
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