There is no simple answer to this question of which road is better. Because there are different purposes for concrete and asphalt roads. When trying to choose between them it is important to consider the specifics of the project first. So in this article, I will give you a quick comparison between asphalt roads and concrete roads.
1. Durability:
Concrete roads have a long service life span of 20-40 years on average, whereas the life span of asphalt roads is 10 years.
2. Maintenance:
Though concrete provides more longevity and requires less maintenance, repairing it is the biggest problem. Wholes or cracks can’t be simply patched, instead, the whole slab needs to be replaced.
As asphalt doesn’t last for a long time, it requires frequent repairing. Though repairing and maintenance are easier than concrete roads. Patching and relayering over the old layer is easily possible.
3. Resistance:
Concrete road is mosre resistant as compared to asphalt road. They don’t get damaged by leaking oils from the vehicle and other extreme weather conditions suh as heavy rain, flood, extreme heat etc.
Asphalt roads get damaged by heavy rain, flood, and other extreme weather conditions and require frequent repairing.
4. Fuel Consumption Of Vehicles:
Vehicles running over concrete roads consumes 15-20% less fuel than asphalt roads. Concrete roads is also better for high truck volume because they hold up better under weight and pressure.
5. Safety:
Asphalt is quieter than concrete. Though it provides a smooth drive to vehicles due to better traction skid resistance. It also helps to keep roads free from snow and ice.
But in rainy and winter season vehicles tend to slip and slide on concrete roads.
6. Cost:
The cost of concrete roads are higher than asphalt roads. Compared to concrete roads asphalt roads are less costly.
7. Time:
The concrete must be allowed to cure and gain strength over time before vehicles may run on it. If you have a situation where traffic needs to get on the road quickly asphalt will be a better choice. Asphalt can be placed the same day that traffic is put on it.
8. Effect On Environment:
Concrete roads are environment friendly whereas, Asphalt produces harmful greenhouse gasses when melting for paving. It contributes to environmental pollution.
Conclusion:
Concrete roads are highly durable, costly, environment friendly, require less maintenance having repairing problems. They are ideal for new roads and road expansion in urban areas and underground utility repair.
Asphalt roads are less costly, easily repairable, requires frequent maintenance. It also provides little better safety and requires less time to build. Asphalt roads are ideal for rural areas.
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