
Crushed Asphalt vs. Gravel: Which Is Better for Your Driveway in 2024?
Choosing the best material for your driveway can be tricky, especially with so many options available in 2024. Whether you’re in Gurnee, IL, or anywhere else, a well-maintained driveway can add curb appeal and convenience to your property. Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head comparison of two popular driveway materials: crushed asphalt and gravel. Let’s see which one comes out on top for your needs in 2024.
Crushed Asphalt vs. Gravel: What Are They?
Before deciding which is better, it helps to understand what crushed asphalt and gravel actually are.
Crushed Asphalt: The Road Reborn
Crushed asphalt is made from reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP). Instead of ending up in a landfill, old asphalt is recycled and crushed into small pieces, making it an environmentally friendly option for homeowners. Plus, using crushed asphalt helps reduce waste, which is a major win in 2024, where sustainability is more important than ever.
Crushed asphalt retains the tar-like qualities of traditional asphalt, which helps bind the material together when it’s compacted, creating a stable surface. It looks dark and smooth, similar to a traditional asphalt driveway, and provides a cost-effective way to achieve that familiar paved look.
Gravel: Classic and Functional
Gravel, on the other hand, has been around forever. It’s made up of a mix of stone, sand, and clay, creating a rough texture that’s easy to install and maintain. Gravel driveways have a timeless, rustic look that many people love. The size and color of gravel can vary, which allows homeowners to customize the look of their driveway.
Gravel is usually the go-to material if you want something simple and affordable. It’s readily available in Gurnee, IL, and many people like its natural appearance.
Pros and Cons: Crushed Asphalt vs. Gravel
Both crushed asphalt and gravel have pros and cons that could make or break your decision. Let’s break them down.
Benefits of Crushed Asphalt
- Affordable and Recycled: Crushed asphalt is made from recycled materials, which makes it an affordable option compared to new asphalt.
- Stability: It becomes more stable over time, as it can be compacted to form a solid surface.
- Reduced Dust: Crushed asphalt creates less dust compared to gravel, making it ideal for those with respiratory sensitivities or for driveways near gardens.
Downsides of Crushed Asphalt
- Requires Maintenance: Over time, crushed asphalt can develop small cracks that will need sealing to maintain stability.
- Not Ideal for Rainy Areas: Crushed asphalt can get slick in heavy rains, which might be an issue in Gurnee’s unpredictable weather.
Benefits of Gravel
- Affordability: Gravel is one of the cheapest materials available for driveways.
- Great Drainage: Since gravel is loose, it allows water to pass through easily, preventing puddles and reducing the chance of flooding.
- Easy to Repair: Potholes can be filled easily with extra gravel, keeping maintenance stress-free.
Downsides of Gravel
- Erosion: Gravel can easily be washed away during heavy rains, requiring regular refills.
- High Maintenance: Gravel needs more frequent upkeep to prevent ruts and uneven surfaces from forming.
- Dust: During dry spells, gravel driveways can get very dusty, which can be a nuisance, especially near a busy road.
The Cost Factor in 2024
Both crushed asphalt and gravel are affordable options, but costs can vary depending on availability and the price of materials. Here in Gurnee, crushed asphalt costs slightly more due to the processing required, but it could be worth the extra expense given its additional benefits. Gravel remains the budget-friendly choice for those looking to save money upfront.
2024 Trends to Consider
In 2024, sustainability is trending big. People in Gurnee are becoming more conscious of their environmental footprint, and the reuse of asphalt is a great way to align with that green mindset. Crushed asphalt is also more resilient to wear and tear, which means fewer replacements and less impact on the environment over the long run.
Gravel, while not as eco-friendly as crushed asphalt, still holds its charm for those looking to add a bit of rural personality to their property. Gravel’s charm is timeless, and many people love its natural vibe. Ultimately, deciding between these two materials comes down to what matters most to you—cost, look, or maintenance requirements.
Which Performs Better in Gurnee Winters?
Let’s be real—Gurnee winters can be tough. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and constant plowing all affect driveway materials differently.
Crushed Asphalt in Winter
Crushed asphalt tends to perform well in winter, providing a firm surface that snowplows can easily clear. Its solid, compacted nature makes it less likely to develop ruts or potholes during the constant freezing and thawing cycles of 2024’s Midwest winter.
However, one downside of crushed asphalt is that if water manages to seep in, it can freeze and expand, causing small cracks. Keeping the driveway well-sealed is essential for preventing significant damage.
Gravel in Winter
Gravel, while easy to install and repair, tends to shift around during winter plowing. Snowplows can inadvertently scoop up sections of the gravel, leading to an uneven surface that will need replenishing come springtime. Additionally, gravel can get muddy if not properly maintained, leading to a mess during the winter melt.
Maintenance Tips for 2024
Whichever material you choose, maintenance is key. Here are a few simple tips to keep your driveway in top shape:
- Seal Crushed Asphalt Annually: To ensure your crushed asphalt driveway lasts, seal it at least once a year to keep moisture out.
- Refill Gravel as Needed: Add gravel periodically to fill in areas where it’s washed away or settled unevenly.
- Clear Snow Carefully: Use a snowplow with a rubber edge or shovel gently to avoid displacing gravel or damaging the asphalt.
Crushed Asphalt vs. Gravel: The Verdict for Gurnee Residents
The final decision boils down to your needs and preferences. Crushed asphalt is a great option for those looking for a low-maintenance, sturdy, and eco-friendly choice. It’s ideal if you want something that feels more permanent and less dusty—perfect if you live in Gurnee and want a driveway that will stand up to our unpredictable weather.
Gravel, on the other hand, offers a classic, natural appearance at a lower price. If you’re comfortable with regular upkeep and you like that rustic look, gravel might be the right pick.
In the end, it’s all about what works for you in 2024’s world—whether you want a sustainable choice with crushed asphalt or the laid-back charm of gravel. Whichever you choose, Armored Asphalt has got you covered to make sure it’s installed perfectly.
Ready for a New Driveway?
Maintaining your asphalt pavement is crucial for extending its life and maintaining its functionality and appearance. Armored Asphalt recommends regular inspections and prompt repairs to address any issues before they become major problems.
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