Concrete Driveways & Patios

Should I Choose Concrete or Asphalt for My Driveway?

Many homeowners reach this stage after their existing driveway has deteriorated. Others are finishing a new build and want the driveway to complement the home’s design.

You may be drawn to concrete because of its clean, high-end appearance. You may also be wondering about cost.

Here’s the honest answer: concrete is often more expensive upfront than asphalt. However, cost should always be evaluated alongside performance, durability, slope conditions, and curb appeal goals.

In certain situations, concrete isn’t just a premium option, it’s the better structural solution.

Having done your research you are really wowed by some of the concrete driveways you have seen,  and you have decided that you’re looking for a strong high impact concrete driveway. That said you are concerned about the cost. Let’s be honest here, of all the paving options that exist; concrete is typically the most expensive paving option, but not always. Furthermore, there are times when it is the only viable option for achieving the goals you have set in terms of look, performance, and function.

Let’s do a quick overview of concrete versus the most common alternative forms of paving.

Concrete vs. Asphalt for Residential Driveways

Concrete driveways are typically installed thicker than asphalt and reinforced to provide structural strength. When both are properly installed by experienced contractors using quality materials, they can offer comparable long-term performance.

However, there are scenarios where concrete has a clear advantage.

If your driveway has a steep grade, asphalt can gradually shift downhill over time. This may cause thinning at the top and buildup at the bottom. Concrete, once cured, remains structurally stable on steep slopes and maintains its form.

Concrete also offers significantly more design versatility. If curb appeal is a priority, or you want decorative finishes, colour integration, or architectural detail, concrete allows for far more creativity.

For homeowners building a custom or high-end home, concrete is often the preferred choice because of the visual impact it creates. Just look at this gorgeous finish below:

Concrete vs. Rubber Paving

Rubber paving has become more popular in recent years, particularly as an overlay solution for cracked or aging surfaces. It is often installed over an existing stable base. If your current driveway base remains structurally sound, rubber paving can sometimes serve as an alternative finish option.

However, if the base has deteriorated, cracked significantly, or settled unevenly, removal and proper reconstruction is typically the better long-term investment. Installing new concrete ensures structural integrity and allows you to build from a stable, engineered foundation.

If you’re looking for the best rubber paving contractor in Vancouver, we highly recommend Eco Paving based out of Coquitlam. They are experts in rubber paving and also deliver an amazing customer experience! Please tell them Burnaby Blacktop referred you.

Concrete vs. Paving Stones

The choice between concrete and paving stones often comes down to appearance and maintenance expectations.

Paving stones allow water to pass between joints, which can assist with surface drainage. However, in Metro Vancouver’s rainy climate, joint sand can gradually wash out over time. This may lead to shifting, uneven surfaces, and maintenance requirements.

Concrete is a solid surface and must be properly graded to manage water flow. When drainage is correctly planned during installation, concrete driveways perform extremely well in BC conditions.

If you prefer a seamless, monolithic surface with long-term stability, concrete is often the preferred solution.

What Factors Most Affect the Quality of a Concrete Driveway?

This is where experience truly matters. The long-term performance of a concrete driveway depends heavily on base preparation, reinforcement, drainage planning, and concrete strength.

Proper excavation and compacted base material are critical. If the base fails, the concrete above it will eventually fail as well.

Forms must be installed straight and level to ensure proper slope and water runoff. Reinforcement, typically rebar or wire mesh, helps maintain structural integrity over time and reduces cracking risk. Concrete strength is also important.

WHAT KIND OF FINISHES CAN I GET ON MY CONCRETE DRIVEWAY?

There are many different finishes that you can choose for your new concrete driveway. We will cover the three most popular below.

Broom Finish Concrete Driveway

A broom finish is the most common and cost-effective option. This finish provides a lightly textured surface for traction and is frequently seen on sidewalks and residential driveways. It delivers a clean, functional appearance with excellent durability.

Exposed Aggregate Concrete Driveway

Exposed aggregate reveals decorative stone within the surface of the concrete. It provides a textured, natural appearance and sits between broom and stamped finishes in terms of overall investment. While trends shift over time, exposed aggregate remains a strong choice for homeowners seeking added visual interest without the complexity of stamping.

Stamped Finish Driveway

Stamped concrete is the most design-driven option. Patterns are pressed into the surface to replicate stone, brick, slate, or other textures. Colour can be integrated directly into the concrete and enhanced with secondary release agents for contrast.

Because stamped concrete is more labour-intensive and requires careful finishing, it represents a higher investment. However, for homeowners prioritizing curb appeal and design impact, it delivers unmatched visual results (see the images above).

Built to Last – Concrete Paving by Experts

A concrete driveway is a long-term investment. It should be engineered correctly, reinforced properly, and finished with precision.

At Burnaby Blacktop Ltd., we operate with fully employee-staffed crews and in-house equipment, allowing us to control quality from start to finish. We provide clear communication, detailed written estimates, and professional workmanship backed by warranty.

If you’re considering a concrete driveway in Metro Vancouver, call Burnaby Blacktop Ltd. at (778)-855-0513 or submit a quote request to schedule a consultation with one of our residential concrete estimators.

No pressure. No obligation. Just expert guidance and a clear path forward.

FAQs about Residential Concrete Paving