Driveways perform an important role, and as such, it’s important to carefully consider the materials a new driveway will be constructed from. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your tired, drab or damaged driveway, or are having a driveway installed for your newly built home, an expert construction firm can guide you as to the most suitable materials for your location, and here are just a few of them:
Concrete
Once the preferred material for constructing driveways from, concrete is no longer as popular as it once was, but it does have its advantages and is still chosen by some:
Pros
- Concrete is easy to process
- It’s a cheap material
Cons
- It can have a drab appearance
- Concrete weathers relatively quickly
- The floor is sealed
Brick
Characterful and long lasting, brick is a popular choice for driveways, but it does require a lot of planning and preparation.
Pros
- Bricks are highly weatherproof, absorbing little moisture to remain frost-free in winter
- They’re robust and suitable for heavier loads
- Little maintenance is required
Cons
- Bricks cost more than other materials like concrete
- Color options are limited
- Brick driveways are more labor intensive
Gravel
Choose from light or dark gravel, and make your driveway look aesthetically appealing while potentially deterring burglars, too.
Pros
- Gravel is inexpensive
- Easy to apply
- Rainwater doesn’t pool
- The ‘crunch’ of gravel can deter trespassers and burglars
Disadvantages
- Leaves and snow are difficult to remove
- Fairways and faults can be a problem
Rubber
This material is an especially effective one for an attractive driveway that requires minimal maintenance.
Pros
- Requires little maintenance
- Maintains its attractiveness for many years
- Weeds and moss will not grow on a rubber driveway
- Cleaning is simple due to the nature of the rubber surface
Asphalt
An increasingly popular choice among homeowners today, asphalt is a strong and durable material for a driveway, and when applied professionally, looks smoother and more aesthetically pleasing than concrete. Provided your driveway isn’t going to be subject to heavy loads, asphalt is a good choice.
Pros
- Once laid, an asphalt driveway can be driven on almost immediately
- Repairs are made easy
- Asphalt can last for as long as 20 years
Cons
- It is prone to crumbling or cracking at the edges
- In some instances, an oily, tar-like substance can rise to the surface and cause problems
Understanding what material is most suitable for your driveway is best achieved after a consultation with a professional construction company who deal with driveways often. While you might like the look of a certain material, your budget, location and other factors may take the decision out of your hands.
To get a sleek, functional and high-performance driveway for your home, always work with an experienced company in your locality.