Choosing Between Asphalt and Concrete for Michigan Commercial Construction

Asphalt vs Concrete for Michigan Construction Projects

Choosing Between Asphalt and Concrete for Michigan Commercial Construction

Choosing the right surface for commercial construction in Michigan is a decision that can affect project costs longevity maintenance and performance under the state’s demanding climate of freezing winters and thaw cycles. Whether you are building a commercial lot, improving a municipal roadway, or preparing a high traffic industrial site, the material you select for pavement affects long term durability, maintenance costs, safety, and curb appeal.

Property owners and developers across Southeast Michigan regularly ask us the same question: "Should I choose asphalt or concrete for my project?"

This guide will help you compare asphalt and concrete based on cost, lifespan, maintenance, performance, and intended use. It also explains how Merlo Construction delivers expert concrete flatwork and asphalt services with precision and safety.

Understanding the Differences Between Asphalt and Concrete

Asphalt is a petroleum based paving material composed of aggregate and bitumen that is heated and applied in layers to form a smooth surface. It is widely used for roads parking areas and driveways because it can be installed relatively quickly and repaired with ease.

Concrete is a mixture of cement water and aggregate that cures into a rigid and very strong surface. It is prized for its structural strength durability and ability to handle heavy loads. Concrete can also be finished in a variety of textures and colors to match commercial design requirements.

Understanding how each material behaves helps you match the surface to your project’s needs.

Key Differences Between Asphalt and Concrete

When comparing asphalt and concrete for commercial use, consider the following:

Performance: Asphalt tends to be more flexible, which can help it resist cracking under freeze thaw cycles. Concrete is stiff and strong but can crack if not properly reinforced or if ground shifts beneath it.

Lifespan: Concrete generally outlasts asphalt when properly installed and maintained, often providing decades of service. Asphalt typically has a shorter lifespan but can be resurfaced more easily.

Cost: Initial installation of asphalt is often less expensive than concrete. However, maintenance and resurfacing costs over time may narrow the gap depending on usage and climate conditions.

Maintenance: Asphalt surfaces need sealing and periodic overlay to maintain performance. Concrete requires less frequent maintenance, but repairs can be more costly when cracking or spalling occurs.

Appearance: Concrete has a lighter appearance and can be customized with finishes. Asphalt has a dark, uniform look that hides oil stains and tire marks more effectively.

Environmental: Recycled asphalt can be reused in new installations, while concrete can be recycled for base material. Both materials benefit from sustainable planning.

Climate and Environmental Differences

Michigan weather changes dramatically across seasons, which means surface material must be selected with climate in mind. Asphalt becomes softer when warm and more brittle when cold. Concrete remains firm in high summer heat but can crack when water freezes inside its pores. The success of either surface depends heavily on the preparation beneath it. Proper grading, drainage management, controlled expansion joints, and sub base density all play roles in longevity.

Snow removal is another major factor. Improper plowing can damage asphalt and concrete. Salt exposure can deteriorate concrete if it is not sealed correctly. Water pooling on the surface will damage both materials over time. Completing drainage improvements, slope design, and snow management planning alongside surface installation will protect the investment and reduce premature failure.

Installation Time and Business Operations

Commercial properties must often remain accessible during renovation or construction. Install time becomes a critical factor when selecting materials. Asphalt typically allows earlier traffic return because it hardens quickly after installation. Businesses can often reopen within a day or two. Concrete requires curing time, often several days to a full week before heavy vehicles can drive across it. This time difference is important for schools reopening after summer upgrades, retail centers that rely on customer access, and distribution sites moving constant product.

Project planning must balance future durability with immediate usability. A location prioritizing long term investment may find concrete worth the wait. A property facing strict operational deadlines may consider asphalt the smarter short term decision.

Cost Comparison for Commercial Projects

Understanding the cost tradeoffs helps you plan your budget effectively:

Initial Installation: Asphalt is typically lower in cost to install, making it attractive for large areas such as parking lots or access roads. Concrete installation costs more due to material strength and curing time.

Long Term Costs: Concrete’s durability can reduce the need for frequent resurfacing or major repairs. Asphalt may require periodic sealing and overlays to extend its service life.

Maintenance: Asphalt maintenance tends to be less expensive in the short term, but may occur more often. Concrete’s maintenance intervals are longer, but individual repairs can be complex.

Typical Commercial Use Cases in Michigan

Parking Areas: Asphalt’s smooth look and ease of repair make it ideal for retail and office campus parking lots. Concrete is also used for parking in high load areas where heavy trucks frequent.

Roadways and Driveways: Municipal roads near Detroit or industrial driveways with frequent truck traffic often use concrete for its long term strength. Asphalt roads can be resurfaced quickly to minimize disruption.

Walkways and Sidewalks: Concrete is common for sidewalks and pedestrian zones due to its stiffness finish options and longevity. Asphalt works well for trails or secondary pathways where ease of maintenance is a priority.

Summary Table Comparing Asphalt and Concrete

Category	Asphalt	Concrete
Typical Initial Cost	Lower initial cost	Higher upfront cost
Lifespan	Shorter lifespan but can be resurfaced	Longer lifespan with lower major repair needs
Installation Time	Fast installation and quick reopening	Requires longer curing time before full use
Ideal Uses	Parking lots, access drives, temporary or high turnover sites	Entrances, plazas, industrial pads, permanent commercial areas
Maintenance	Requires regular sealing and crack repair	Needs joint sealing but less frequent maintenance
Climate Response	Flexible and adapts to frost movement	Resists heat and chemicals but sensitive to freeze water expansion
Appearance	Softer look and darker finish	More professional aesthetic and customizable options

Choosing the Right Surface for Your Project

Start by evaluating expected traffic loads budget constraints long term maintenance plans and aesthetic priorities. If you anticipate heavy vehicle traffic or want a surface that will last many years with minimal intervention, concrete may be the better choice. If your priority is lower initial cost and ease of maintenance, asphalt could be the right fit.

For many Michigan business owners a combination approach works best, using concrete in high stress areas and asphalt where flexibility and cost savings are priorities. Consulting with experienced professionals ensures your project is designed to withstand Michigan climate conditions and usage patterns.

Why Partner with Merlo Construction

We at Merlo Construction bring decades of Michigan commercial construction expertise to help you make a choice with confidence. Since 1991 we have provided site preparation, asphalt paving, commercial concrete flatwork, structural concrete and related services across Michigan and beyond. Our team uses advanced equipment GPS guided grading and quality materials to deliver surfaces that meet your performance expectations and stand up to Michigan climate conditions year after year.

Our work is visible throughout the Michigan on sidewalks, plazas, parking lots, and commercial complexes that support daily community life. Whether your project uses asphalt or concrete for surface, our team bring craftsmanship, safety, and reliability to your project. For commercial property owners and project managers ready to move forward with construction planning, contact us today to schedule a consultation and request an estimate for your next commercial paving project.