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Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveways: Making the Right Choice for Your St. Louis Home

How to Choose Between Concrete and Asphalt for Your Driveway in St. Louis

At St. Louis Concrete Works, we often field questions from homeowners about the best material for their driveways. While we specialize in concrete, we believe in providing comprehensive information to help you make the best decision for your property. Let’s compare concrete and asphalt driveways in the context of St. Louis’s unique climate and lifestyle.

Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveways 2

Climate Considerations in St. Louis

Before diving into the comparison, let’s consider our local weather:

  • Hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F
  • Cold winters with frequent freeze-thaw cycles
  • Occasional severe weather, including heavy rains and snow


These factors significantly impact driveway performance and longevity.

Concrete Driveways: Pros and Cons

Pros of Concrete in St. Louis

  1. Durability: Lasts 30-40 years with proper maintenance
  2. Heat Resistance: Stays cooler in our sweltering summers
  3. Strength: Handles heavy loads, ideal for RV owners in West County
  4. Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep
  5. Versatility: Can be stamped or colored to match historic homes in Lafayette Square or modern designs in Clayton
  6. Eco-Friendly: Reflects more sunlight, reducing urban heat island effect

Cons of Concrete

  1. Higher Initial Cost: More expensive upfront than asphalt
  2. Staining: Can be stained by oil or rust, a consideration for DIY mechanics
  3. Cracking: May crack due to soil movement, common in areas like Chesterfield
  4. Salt Damage: Can be damaged by de-icing salts used on St. Louis roads
  5. Curing Time: Requires longer curing time before use

Asphalt Driveways: Pros and Cons

Pros of Asphalt in St. Louis

  1. Lower Initial Cost: More budget-friendly upfront
  2. Quick Installation: Can be used sooner after installation
  3. Easy Repairs: Cracks and damages are typically easier to fix
  4. Flexibility: Handles ground movement better, useful in areas with clay soils like South County
  5. Winter-Friendly: Less affected by salt and stands up well to snow plows

Cons of Asphalt

  1. Shorter Lifespan: Typically lasts 15-20 years
  2. Regular Maintenance: Requires sealing every few years
  3. Heat Susceptibility: Can soften in extreme heat, common in St. Louis summers
  4. Limited Design Options: Fewer aesthetic choices compared to concrete
  5. Environmental Concerns: Petroleum-based product with a larger carbon footprint

Maintenance Realities

St. Louis’s climate demands attention to driveway maintenance:

Concrete Maintenance

  • Seal every 2-3 years
  • Clean oil stains promptly
  • Avoid using de-icing salts in the first year

Asphalt Maintenance

  • Seal every 2-5 years
  • Fill cracks annually
  • Expect to resurface every 10-15 years

Environmental Impact

For eco-conscious St. Louisans:

  • Concrete is more reflective, reducing heat absorption
  • Concrete can be made with recycled materials
  • Asphalt is recyclable but is petroleum-based
  • Both can be permeable, aiding in stormwater management – crucial in our flood-prone areas

St. Louis Concrete Works' Recommendation

While we specialize in concrete, we recognize that each homeowner’s needs are unique. However, for most St. Louis homes, we recommend concrete driveways for their:

  1. Longevity in our variable climate
  2. Ability to withstand our hot summers
  3. Lower long-term maintenance requirements
  4. Excellent return on investment
  5. Design versatility to match diverse St. Louis architecture

Ready to Make a Decision?

Choosing between concrete and asphalt is a significant decision. At St. Louis Concrete Works, we’re here to help you navigate this choice. Our experts can assess your property, consider your budget and preferences, and recommend the best solution for your St. Louis home.

Whether you choose concrete or asphalt, proper installation is key to longevity and performance. If you opt for concrete, our skilled team ensures a driveway that will serve you well for decades to come.

Contact Us for a Free Driveway Consultation

Remember, your driveway is more than just a place to park – it’s an investment in your home’s value and curb appeal. Choose wisely, and enjoy a beautiful, functional driveway for years to come!

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