Paving refers to a variety of materials used to create a hard and durable surface, while asphalt is a petroleum-based composite material commonly used for road construction.

The most critical element in extending the life of asphalt pavement is proper maintenance and upkeep. Properly maintained asphalt pavement should last between 20 and 30 years, or 25 years on average.

Cost Comparison – Blacktop vs Concrete Driveway There are both short-term and long-term costs for asphalt and concrete. Asphalt is cheaper than concrete to install, at about $3 or $4 per square foot. Concrete typically costs at least $6 per square foot to install.

While these substances certainly look alike, function similarly and may even be used interchangeably in some regions, blacktop and asphalt are in fact two separate products. Made from the same two main ingredients, crushed stone and bitumen, the difference between blacktop and asphalt lies largely in how each is mixed.