Here, discover six popular driveway materials to choose the perfect option for your home.
Asphalt surfaces consist of a mixture of sand, aggregate, and a tar-like liquid, sometimes called bitumen.
Concrete driveways look great when they’re new.
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It can be applied simply by dumping it on a flattened area and raking it into a smooth layer.
The process is time-consuming but not difficult.Gravel drivewayscan quickly develop potholes, but repairs are quite easy.
It is simple gravel spread out over a prepared, flattened base.
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Another popular option is sorted river gravel, composed of smooth pebbles.
Concrete pavers are an increasingly popular choice, available in various geometric shapes.
In particular,cobblestone paversare one of the most long-lasting surface coverings, lasting centuries.
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When they break or become dislodged, the repair is simple enough.
Stone pavers and cobblestones require sourcing from a stone quarry.
While the work is time-consuming and physically demanding, installing cobblestones is not too complicated.
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Regular maintenance includes hand weeding between stones to ensure root growth doesn’t unset the stones.
It is a more sustainable paving surface, best used to reduce stormwater runoff.
It also takes longer to cure and requires professional installation.
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It requires regular cleaning to maintain its porosity and function properly.
The most popular paving materials for driveways are between these extremes: asphalt and poured concrete.
And your choice may also be governed by whether or not you want to attempt the installation yourself.
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Be sure to check local building and zoning departments.
Gravel and asphalt are not allowed in some areas.
Gravel is the least expensive options for a driveway surface.
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Cobblestones are one of the most maintenance-free driveway surfaces.
Cobblestones or stone pavers are resilient by nature.
They can hold up to external pressure and vehicle load.
They can last centuries without cracking or chipping.
