Choosing a new driveway is a major investment for Spokane homeowners. One of the most common questions we hear is:
Should you install concrete or asphalt?
Both materials have advantages, but Spokane’s climate, maintenance needs, and long-term value often make concrete the stronger long-term solution for many homeowners.
Spokane Weather Matters
Spokane experiences freezing winters, snow, ice, summer heat, and constant seasonal expansion and contraction. Your driveway needs to withstand all of it.
Both asphalt and concrete can perform well when properly installed, but they behave very differently over time.
Asphalt
- Softer material
- More flexible in freezing conditions
- Can deteriorate faster in heat and UV exposure
- Requires ongoing sealing and maintenance
Concrete
- Stronger and more rigid surface
- Better long-term durability
- Handles heavy vehicles well
- Cleaner, brighter appearance
- Lower long-term maintenance
For homeowners planning to stay in their home long-term, concrete often becomes the better investment.
Maintenance Differences
One of the biggest differences between asphalt and concrete is upkeep.
Asphalt Maintenance
Asphalt driveways typically require:
- Resealing every few years
- Crack filling
- Edge repairs
- Surface patching over time
Without regular maintenance, asphalt can begin looking worn fairly quickly.
Concrete Maintenance
Concrete driveways are generally much simpler to maintain:
- Occasional pressure washing
- Basic crack monitoring
- Long-lasting surface integrity
Properly installed concrete can last decades with significantly less ongoing work.
Appearance & Curb Appeal
Concrete has become increasingly popular because of its clean, modern appearance.
Today’s concrete driveways can include:
- Decorative borders
- Broom finishes
- Exposed aggregate
- Colored concrete
- Custom scoring and layout patterns
Concrete also reflects more light, helping driveways appear cleaner and brighter compared to asphalt.
For homeowners focused on curb appeal and resale value, this can make a major difference.
Strength for Heavy Vehicles
Concrete is especially popular for:
- RV parking
- Large trucks
- Heavy SUVs
- Trailers
- Extra-wide driveways
Its rigid structure helps reduce rutting and sinking when installed with proper base preparation.
Long-Term Cost Considerations
Asphalt sometimes costs less initially, but ongoing maintenance and shorter lifespan can change the equation over time.
Concrete may require a larger upfront investment, but many Spokane homeowners appreciate:
- Longer lifespan
- Reduced maintenance costs
- Improved appearance
- Better long-term value
In many cases, concrete becomes more cost-effective over the life of the driveway.
Which Driveway Is Right for You?
Every property is different. Budget, drainage, vehicle use, slope, and appearance goals all play a role in choosing the right material.
At Need Concrete?, we help Spokane and Spokane Valley homeowners install durable concrete driveways designed for long-term performance in Inland Northwest weather conditions.
Whether you’re replacing an aging driveway or building a new home, a professionally installed concrete driveway can provide lasting durability, clean curb appeal, and years of dependable use.