Asphalt vs. Brick Paving: Key Differences Uncovered

When choosing between asphalt and brick paving, you'll find distinct differences in cost, installation, and maintenance. Asphalt offers a cost-effective solution at $3-$5 per square metre with quick 1-2 day installation, but requires sealing every 3-5 years. Brick paving costs more initially ($10-$20 per square metre) and takes 3-5 days to install, yet provides superior aesthetic value with various patterns and colours. While asphalt needs complete resurfacing when damaged, brick's modular nature allows for individual paver replacement. Understanding these key differences will help you make the best choice for your specific property needs and long-term value expectations.

Understanding The Core Materials

When choosing between asphalt and brick paving, you'll need to understand their fundamental composition and characteristics.

Asphalt consists of a petroleum-based bitumen mixed with carefully graded aggregates, creating a flexible surface that adapts to temperature changes. The material composition allows for quick installation and provides a uniform appearance that's particularly suited for driveways and commercial spaces.

You'll find brick paving offers a distinctly different makeup, using individual units made from clay, concrete, or natural stone.

While asphalt focuses on functionality, brick paving's aesthetic appeal comes from its variety of colours, patterns, and textures. Each paver is laid individually on a prepared base, creating a surface that's both decorative and durable.

The modular nature of brick paving means you can easily replace damaged sections without disturbing the entire surface.

Cost and Value Breakdown

Understanding the materials is just the starting point – let's look at what you'll actually spend.

You'll find that asphalt typically costs between $3-$5 per square metre for installation, while brick paving runs considerably higher at $10-$20 per square metre.

These budget considerations extend beyond initial costs:

• Asphalt requires sealing every 3-5 years, costing about $0.50 per square metre
• Brick paving needs occasional re-sanding and sealing, with individual brick replacement costs
• Labour expenses are remarkably higher for brick installation due to manual placement
• Resale value varies, with brick paving often adding more kerb appeal

When calculating your total investment, factor in your property's specific needs and long-term maintenance requirements.

Your climate and intended use will also influence which option provides better value for your situation.

Installation Methods Compared

Installing these two paving options reveals stark differences in complexity and time requirements.

When you're considering installation techniques, asphalt offers faster completion since it's applied as a heated mixture that workers can spread and compact in large sections. You'll find that a typical driveway can be completed in 1-2 days.

Brick paving requires more intricate work, as each paver requires individual placement and precise spacing. Your contractor will need to establish a proper foundation, lay edge restraints, and carefully position each brick – a process that can span 3-5 days for the same area.

While asphalt paving efficiency stems from its continuous application method, brick installation relies on methodical, piece-by-piece placement. The base preparation is essential for both, but brick paving necessitates additional steps like cutting pavers and filling joints with sand.

Long Term Care Requirements

Regular maintenance requirements differ greatly between asphalt and brick paving surfaces.

You'll need to seal your asphalt driveway every 3-5 years to protect it from weather damage and prevent cracking, whilst brick paving requires re-sanding joints annually to maintain stability.

Repair techniques vary considerably between these materials.

For asphalt, you can easily patch damaged areas with hot or cold mix compounds, especially during warmer months.

With brick paving, you'll simply replace individual damaged pavers as needed.

Seasonal considerations play an essential role in maintenance scheduling.

You should inspect asphalt for winter damage in early spring and address any cracks before they expand.

For brick surfaces, you'll want to check for loose pavers after freeze-thaw cycles and ensure proper drainage throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Asphalt or Brick Paving Increase My Property's Insurance Premiums?

Your insurance premiums typically won't increase with either option, though insurance assessments may consider how these improvements enhance your property's value and affect overall risk factors.

How Do Extreme Weather Conditions Affect the Choice Between Asphalt and Brick?

You'll find asphalt more vulnerable to extreme heat and cracking, whilst brick pavers handle temperature changes better. However, you'll need more frequent maintenance with brick due to frost heaving and settling.

Which Paving Option Is Better for Areas With Tree Root Problems?

You'll want bitumen for better tree root management since it's more flexible and can adapt to root movement. Brick paving's rigid structure makes it more susceptible to cracking and lifting.

Are There Environmental Regulations Limiting Residential Asphalt Paving Installations?

You'll need to check local council regulations for paving requirements, as some areas restrict asphalt sustainability factors like stormwater drainage, chemical composition, and installation near water sources.

How Do Vehicle Oil Leaks Impact Asphalt Versus Brick Paving Surfaces?

You'll find oil stains easier to clean from brick pavers since they're individually sealed. While asphalt's darker surface may camouflage stains better, oil can soften and destabilise its surface durability over time.