If you're thinking about what kind of driveway to install, there are a lot of options to consider. From a budget perspective, gravel is the least expensive, but the hardest to maintain. The two most common types of driveways, though, are asphalt and concrete. While concrete is more expensive to install, $3–$10 per square foot, it last longer and needs fewer repairs.

Generally, a concrete driveway lasts 30 years, as opposed to 20 years for asphalt. However, there are a few factors that can affect the lifespan of your concrete.

Foundation

One of the most important part of laying cement is what it is laying on top of. If you lay your concrete on a precarious or improperly packed foundation, you'll significantly shorten the lifespan of your concrete.

Proper Maintenance

With proper maintenance, concrete driveways should need far fewer repairs than asphalt, which is good because repairs to concrete can be more difficult to conceal. One of the ways people easily damage their concrete is by using the wrong de-icing products in the winter; rock salt is particular dangerous to concrete. At the same time, the right sealant can make a big difference in protecting the surface of your concrete. Find an epoxy supplier like EZ- Concrete Supply that can advise you on the correct sealant to use for your concrete surface, depending on the color and level of polish you prefer.

Shoveling

There are so many ways that the winter can wreak havoc on cement driveways, and you may be the culprit. If you're using metal shovels to shovel snow off of your driveway, you are chipping away at the concrete each season. Try using plastic shovels instead and avoiding scraping the surface instead.

Plants

The roots from trees planted too closely to your driveway can cause irreparable damage to your concrete. If you're installing a new driveway remove any trees near the driveway. Considering the long lifespan of concrete, even young trees can be damaging later down the line. If you're redoing your landscaping, be sure to remind your landscaper not to use trees with large roots too near the driveway.

Heavy Loads

Especially if your driveway is for your commercial business, you may be placing unneeded burdens on your concrete. If you have delivery vans or large garbage bins, be sure to move them around your driveway to avoid cracks.  Same goes for RVs and boats.

Concrete is usually the longest lasting option and relatively budget friendly. Keep in mind that there are a few things you can do to make sure you get the most life out of your investment. If you treat your concrete right, you'll need few repairs and will easily resell your home.