When choosing the best material for your parking lot, the two primary options are asphalt and concrete. Both materials have their advantages, but asphalt stands out as the preferred choice for many businesses and property owners.
If you’re considering a new parking lot or need an asphalt parking lot repair, understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision.
In this guide, we’ll compare the pros and cons of asphalt and concrete parking lots and explain why asphalt is often the superior choice, especially in Tucson, AZ.
Asphalt Parking Lot: Pros and Cons
Asphalt is the most common choice for paving contractors in Tucson, AZ, and for good reason. Let’s explore the benefits and drawbacks.
Pros of Asphalt Parking Lots
More cost-effective – Asphalt is much cheaper to install than concrete, making it ideal for businesses on a budget.
Faster installation – Unlike concrete, which takes days to cure, asphalt can be ready for use within 24-48 hours.
Easier repairs and maintenance – Asphalt can be quickly repaired with resurfacing, overlays, or crack sealing.
Weather-resistant – Asphalt flexes with temperature changes, reducing the risk of cracking in extreme weather.
Recyclable and sustainable – Old asphalt can be reused, making it an eco-friendly option.
Better traction and safety – Asphalt provides a smoother driving surface with better skid resistance.
Cons of Asphalt Parking Lots
Requires periodic maintenance – To extend its lifespan, asphalt should be sealcoated every 3–5 years.
Absorbs heat – Asphalt gets hotter than concrete, but this can be managed with proper coatings.
Slightly shorter lifespan – While asphalt lasts around 20–30 years, regular maintenance can maximize its longevity.
Concrete Parking Lot: Pros and Cons
Concrete is a common choice for parking lots, particularly in commercial settings. Here’s what you need to know about it.
Pros of Concrete Parking Lots
Longer lifespan – Concrete parking lots can last up to 30–40 years with proper maintenance.
Minimal maintenance – Unlike asphalt, concrete doesn’t require sealcoating and holds up well against oil spills.
Better in hot climates – Concrete absorbs less heat than asphalt, making it a cooler surface to walk on.
Higher load-bearing capacity – It’s more resistant to heavy loads, making it ideal for industrial settings.
Cons of Concrete Parking Lots
Higher initial cost – Concrete is significantly more expensive to install than asphalt.
Difficult to repair – Cracks in concrete are costly and time-consuming to fix.
Longer installation time – Concrete takes several days to cure before it can be used.
Prone to staining – Oil, grease, and chemical spills leave visible marks that are difficult to remove.
Susceptible to cracking in cold weather – In areas with freeze-thaw cycles, concrete is prone to cracking and requires expansion joints.
Why Choose Asphalt Over Concrete?
If you’re looking for a durable, cost-effective, and easy-to-maintain parking lot, asphalt is the superior choice. Here’s why asphalt parking lots are preferred in Tucson:
- Lower Cost – Installation and repairs are much more affordable compared to concrete.
- Quick Repairs – Asphalt parking lot repair is straightforward, unlike costly concrete repairs.
- Ideal for Heavy Traffic – Asphalt can withstand heavy traffic loads and is less likely to crack under pressure.
- Efficient Drainage – Properly installed asphalt allows for better water runoff, reducing the risk of puddles and erosion.
Looking for Reliable Asphalt Paving in Tucson?
At APS Chipsealing & Asphalt Paving, we specialize in high-quality asphalt parking lot paving and repair. With years of experience serving Tucson and Phoenix, our team provides durable, cost-effective asphalt solutions for businesses and homeowners.
Services We Offer:
- New asphalt parking lot installation
- Asphalt overlays and resurfacing
- Crack sealing and pothole repair
- Sealcoating to extend the lifespan of your parking lot
Whether you need a new asphalt parking lot or repairs for an existing one, our experts are here to help.
