When planning a driveway, parking lot, or paved surface, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right material. Two of the most common paving options are blacktop (also known as asphalt) and concrete. Both offer their own advantages, but many homeowners and commercial property owners often ask: Is blacktop cheaper than concrete?
At Concrete Company, we help clients weigh their options based on budget, long-term goals, climate, usage, and aesthetics. In this in-depth guide, we’ll compare blacktop and concrete to help you make the best decision for your next paving project.
What Is Blacktop?
Blacktop is a type of asphalt that uses a higher percentage of crushed stone and sand, giving it a smoother, darker appearance. It is commonly used for residential driveways, roads, and parking areas due to its quick installation and cost-effective properties.
What Is Concrete?
Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, sand, and gravel. It cures into a hard, durable surface that is used for a wide variety of residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Concrete can be customized with stamping, staining, or polishing to enhance its appearance.
Initial Installation Cost Comparison
When it comes to upfront costs, blacktop is generally cheaper than concrete.
Average Blacktop Installation Cost
- Per square foot: $3 – $7
- Typical driveway (600 sq ft): $1,800 – $4,200
Average Concrete Installation Cost
- Per square foot: $6 – $12
- Typical driveway (600 sq ft): $3,600 – $7,200
As shown, blacktop can be nearly half the price of concrete initially. At Concrete Company, we help clients evaluate whether the lower upfront cost is worth it when factoring in long-term maintenance and lifespan.
Long-Term Cost Considerations
While blacktop is cheaper upfront, concrete tends to be more cost-effective over time.
Lifespan
- Blacktop lifespan: 15–20 years (with routine maintenance)
- Concrete lifespan: 30–40 years (minimal maintenance)
Concrete lasts significantly longer, which can reduce the need for replacement or frequent resurfacing.
Maintenance Requirements
Blacktop Maintenance Needs:
- Requires sealing every 2–3 years
- Prone to cracking from sun exposure and temperature fluctuations
- Needs regular resurfacing or patchwork
Concrete Maintenance Needs:
- Occasional cleaning and sealing
- Less likely to develop deep cracks
- More resistant to UV rays and water damage
Concrete Company educates clients on total ownership costs so they can plan their projects with confidence.
Durability and Climate Suitability
The material you choose should also match your local climate conditions.
Blacktop in Hot Climates
- Can soften and become sticky in extreme heat
- Prone to rutting and warping
- Absorbs heat, making it hotter to the touch
Concrete in Hot Climates
- Reflects sunlight and stays cooler
- Maintains structural integrity under heat
- Can be treated with sealers to prevent cracking
In colder climates, blacktop has the benefit of flexing slightly, which helps it resist damage from freeze-thaw cycles. However, salt and de-icing chemicals can deteriorate both materials if not maintained properly.
Aesthetic and Customization Differences
Concrete is the clear winner when it comes to design options.
Blacktop Appearance
- Uniform black finish
- Limited customization options
- Suitable for utilitarian or low-visibility spaces
Concrete Appearance
- Can be stamped, stained, or dyed
- Offers color options and decorative textures
- Great for enhancing curb appeal
Concrete Company offers decorative concrete solutions to help customers personalize their outdoor space while increasing property value.
Installation Time and Curing
Both materials require different timelines to install and cure.
Blacktop Installation
- Fast to install
- Ready for light use in 24–48 hours
- Fully cured within a few days
Concrete Installation
- Installation can take longer depending on project scope
- Needs 7–10 days to cure before heavy use
- Strengthens over time (up to 28 days to reach full strength)
If speed is a top priority, blacktop offers a quicker turnaround. But for long-term performance, many customers find the wait for concrete to be worth it.
Environmental Impact
More property owners are thinking about sustainability when choosing materials.
Blacktop
- Made from petroleum-based products
- Can be recycled and reused
- Heat retention may contribute to urban heat islands
Concrete
- Lower carbon footprint during use
- Long lifespan reduces need for replacement
- Some types of concrete use recycled materials
Concrete Company can recommend eco-friendly options for environmentally conscious clients.
Summary: Is Blacktop Cheaper Than Concrete?
Yes—blacktop is cheaper than concrete at the time of installation. However, when you factor in maintenance, durability, and aesthetic value, concrete often provides a better return on investment.
Here’s a quick cost comparison:
Feature | Blacktop | Concrete |
Initial Cost | $3 – $7/sq ft | $6 – $12/sq ft |
Lifespan | 15–20 years | 30–40 years |
Maintenance | Frequent sealing | Occasional sealing |
Design Flexibility | Low | High |
Heat Resistance | Poor | Good |
Time to Use | 1–2 days | 7–10 days |
At Concrete Company, we help you evaluate not just the initial cost, but the total value over time so you can make the right choice for your property.
FAQs About Blacktop vs. Concrete
Is blacktop cheaper than concrete for driveways?
Yes, blacktop is generally cheaper for driveways in terms of initial installation. However, concrete offers longer durability, which can offset higher upfront costs.
Which lasts longer: blacktop or concrete?
Concrete typically lasts 30–40 years, while blacktop lasts around 15–20 years with proper care.
Can I install blacktop over concrete?
Yes, it’s possible to lay blacktop over concrete, but it must be done with care to prevent cracking or movement. Concrete Company can evaluate your site and recommend the best solution.
Which is better for hot climates?
Concrete performs better in hot climates due to its reflective properties and structural integrity. Blacktop tends to absorb heat and may become soft in extreme temperatures.
Which is easier to maintain?
Concrete requires less frequent maintenance compared to blacktop, which needs regular sealing and occasional resurfacing.
Does concrete cost more to repair?
Concrete repairs can be more expensive upfront but are required less often. Blacktop repairs are cheaper but more frequent.
Can I color or customize blacktop?
Blacktop has limited customization options and is usually black. Concrete, on the other hand, can be colored, stamped, or textured.
What is more eco-friendly: blacktop or concrete?
Concrete tends to be more environmentally friendly over time due to its longevity and potential for using recycled materials.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
If your goal is low upfront cost and quick installation, blacktop may be the right fit. But if you want long-term value, durability, and aesthetic appeal, concrete is a smart investment.
At Concrete Company, we work closely with homeowners and business owners to understand their unique needs and recommend the most cost-effective and functional solution. Whether you choose blacktop or concrete, our goal is to ensure a strong, beautiful, and lasting surface that enhances your property.
Ready to explore your paving options? Contact Concrete Company today for a free consultation and estimate. We’ll help you decide whether blacktop or concrete is the right fit—and deliver professional results you can count on.