The Difference in Price of Concrete and Asphalt

Cost Per Square Foot

• If you're concerned about the initial cost of the project, asphalt is the cheapest option. Plain concrete costs between $4 and $8 per square foot, while concrete with colors or aggregate included can cost as little as $6 per square foot or as much as $25, according to Driveway Installation & Maintenance Tips. The Concrete Network lists initial prices a little lower, at between $2.50 per square foot and $4.50 per square foot. Standard asphalt costs between $1 per square foot and $6 per square foot. Macadam, a cheaper option that combines asphalt and gravel, costs between $1 and $3 per square foot.

Cost Over Time

• Over time, the difference between asphalt and concrete costs is less marked. That's because asphalt has a shorter lifespan than concrete. A properly maintained asphalt road or driveway lasts between 10 and 30 years, while concrete lasts between 30 and 50 years. Macadam lasts only around six to 10 years. That means that you'll need to replace your asphalt driveway between one and five times before you need to replace a concrete one. This can drive up the cost of using asphalt.

Maintenance Costs

• Consider maintenance when you figure the cost of your asphalt or concrete project. Concrete should be washed a few times each year, and may need periodic sealing at a cost of around $.75 per square foot. Asphalt should also be washed every few months, and requires a seal coating or layer of macadam every two to four years, at a cost of between a few cents per square foot and $3 per square foot, depending on the type of sealer used.

Finishes

• Fancy stamping or finishes can drive up the cost of both asphalt and concrete installations, but can also improve their appearance and functionality. Stamped and colored concrete can cost as much as $30 per square foot, while special porous concrete for good drainage costs up to $12 per square foot. Stamped and colored asphalt costs up to $12 per square foot and needs recoloring at a cost of $1 and $3 per square foot every eight to 10 years.