A well-constructed and maintained driveway can make a real statement about a home, and as such, investing in them makes a lot of sense. If your existing driveway is less than impressive, or you want to create one from the space outside your home, it’s important to make the right choices when it comes to the materials you use. The following brief guide will give you a basic idea about the different materials available, but a conversation with your local paving or general construction contractor, will help give you a much more detailed understanding:
Asphalt driveways
Commonly used as a driveway surfacing material by homeowners the length and breadth of the country, asphalt is an affordable and durable choice. When professionally installed, an asphalt driveway can last for more than 20 years, although it may require a few minor repairs throughout its lifespan. Below are its pros and cons:
Pros
- Cost effective
- Durable – lasts for longer than 20 years on average
- Repairs are typically minor and affordable
- It’s aesthetically pleasing
- Able to withstand freeze and thaw cycles
Cons
- While repairs are often minor, they are often required frequently
Concrete driveways
Highly durable and long lasting, concrete driveways often require minimal maintenance and repairs. Below are its pros and cons:
Pros
- Minimal maintenance
- Minimal repairs
- Incredibly durable
Cons
- It can be expensive
- Oil stains may be retained
- Unable to withstand freeze and thaw cycles as well as other materials
Stamped concrete driveways
Stamped concrete is a cost-effective alternative to a stone or brick driveway, and is patterned or embossed to make it closely resemble brick, tile or stone. Below are its pros and cons:
Pros
- Can be used on a variety of surfaces, such as patios, sidewalks and driveways
- Design options are varied
- Costs less than stone or brick
Cons
- If the concrete mixture is too dry, it has a tendency to crack prematurely
- Under heavy traffic load, it can crack and develop scratches
Chip sealed or tar-and-chip driveway
Typically costing around half the amount of a standard asphalt driveway, this kind of material is a cost-effective alternative for homeowners on a budget. Below are its pros and cons:
Pros
- Its rough surface affords better traction
- It can last for as long as a decade
- There is no need for it to be repeatedly sealed
Cons
- Snowplows can damage it
- Has a limited lifespan
Exposed driveways
With smooth textured stones as part of the concrete surface, exposed driveways are a popular, aesthetically pleasing choice for many homeowners today. The most commonly used aggregates for these driveways are rocks, pebbles and sand. Below are its pros and cons
Pros
- Can withstand heavy traffic and loads
- Performs well in both snow and rain
- Minimal cleaning and maintenance are required
Cons
- Surface stones can become dislodged in extreme weather conditions or by heavy objects
Interlocking pavers
Imitating the look of a cobbled pathway, interlocking pavers are usually made out of concrete or cement, and are more expensivebut highly durable and very attractive. Below are its pros and cons:
Pros
- Can be installed quickly
- Resistant to weather and can last longer than 30 years
- Easy to repair as individual pavers can simply be replaced
- Water runoffs are reduced thanks to the permeable surface
Cons
- The pavers can become loose over time, if not correctly installed
Whatever type of material you choose to have your driveway made from, always choose an experienced, local contractor to complete the work, and listen to their maintenance advice for the coming years.