6 Benefits of Brick Driveways vs. Asphalt Driveways

Brick Paver Driveway

If it’s time to install a brand new driveway or update your old one, you may be contemplating which material to use. Your mind may automatically go to asphalt but don’t discount the many benefits of brick pavers for your driveway. When installed by professional bricklayers, your driveway can last for years and decades to come.

Let’s take a look at the top benefits of brick driveways vs. asphalt ones.

1.     Brick Driveways Withstand the Elements Better

Bricks are able to withstand constant exposure to the weather, from extreme heat to extreme cold. When paired with the distinct edge bricks have in the looks and style department, you can rest assured a brick driveway will give you the longevity you’ve been looking for. Asphalt, on the other hand, is not ideal for use in extremely hot weather, as it can warp and become uneven with time.

2.     Bricks Are Easy to Install

Brick paver installation for driveways is relatively quick and easy, and it can be installed in any type of weather. Once installed, there is no long waiting period of not being able to use the driveway as is the case with asphalt. The bonding, heating, and curing process of creating an asphalt driveway, coupled with the assortment of graders, paving equipment, and sand spreaders, makes asphalt driveways time-consuming, dirty work.

3.     Bricks Come in Different Colors

Brick certainly adds character to your home. Not only can you choose from a variety of colors, those colors retain their natural beauty for years due to the special dyes and color pigmentations used that you won’t find in the asphalt construction process. Bricks pavers are comprised of heat-cured clay and can be easily modeled to different shapes. In addition to color, you can choose from a variety of patterns to further customize the look of your property.

4.     Bricks Are Safe

Brick driveways are slip, skid, and stain-resistant, making them a much safer material than asphalt. Due to their inherent texture, bricks pavers are naturally slip-resistant, which ensures they stay firmly embedded on the ground. If you get a stain on one portion of your brick driveway, you can easily replace the individual bricks rather than pave over the entire asphalt driveway.

5.     Brick Driveways Last a Long Time

Due to their durability and long lifespan, brick driveways can last 25 years or more – sometimes hundreds of years with good care. Bricks tend to adjust well to minor ground shifting while retaining their interlocking outline. However, driveways made of asphalt are more likely to crack when exposed to shifting and settling.

6.     Bricks Are Easy to Maintain

Asphalt driveways demand more maintenance compared to brick ones. You will need to seal your asphalt driveway every few years to prevent cracking. On top of that, you have to allow the sealer to sit for a few days before you can drive your car on it. There’s not much to do in the way of maintaining structural integrity of bricks after installation. If your brick driveway gets stained with a stubborn substance, just use a pressure washer, brush, and mild soap to get them looking great again.

Get a Free Quote on Brick Driveway Installation Today

Now that you know all the benefits of brick driveways, it’s time to contact us at 586-533-1305 or complete our online form to get your free quote on brick driveway installation from Mortar City Masonry.