Driveways can be constructed using a variety of surface materials. Which driveway surface is a solid choice for your home? And which materials should you steer clear of? This post explores the pros and cons of different driveway surfaces to help you make the right choice. 

Asphalt

Asphalt has long been a simple and practical material for driveways. It’s what most roads are made of, so it makes sense to build your driveway out of asphalt too. Due to being easy to install, asphalt is relatively affordable compared to many other driveway options. It’s also easy to repair – you can simply fill in holes and cracks to make it look brand new again. 

Unfortunately, asphalt is not the most long-lasting option, so you may find yourself scheduling regular repairs – the cost of which could add up in the long run. Asphalt is also sometimes not recommended in hot climates as it can get soft and sticky in high temperatures. 

Gravel

Gravel driveways are some of the cheapest and easiest options to install. You may even be able to lay a gravel driveway yourself! You can compare gravel delivery prices online and explore a range of different types of gravel from crushed bluestone to golden flint, allowing you to explore all kinds of colors and textures. A gravel driveway may also have practical benefits over other driveway surfaces such as superior drainage.

What are the downsides of a gravel driveway? Firstly, they can be noisy – you won’t be able to drive off quietly at 5am. Secondly, if you or someone else has mobility issues, you may find the uneven surface challenging. On top of this, gravel driveways require a fair amount of maintenance to keep stones evenly distributed and prevent weed growth. 

Concrete

One of the most popular driveway surfaces is concrete. Known for being highly durable, a concrete driveway can last up to 50 years if well maintained. It is also resistant to high and low temperatures – it stays cool in sunny weather and is easy to shovel snow from. Another perk of concrete is its versatility. It can come in different colors and can be made to look smooth or textured to imitate stone. 

Although concrete can last for decades, it is worth noting that it is prone to cracking and staining, which may spoil its appearance. Concrete may also not be ideal for those on a tight budget – it is a more expensive driveway surface option than asphalt or gravel, but still cheaper than stone pavers or resin. 

Pavers

A driveway made from stone pavers can give your property a sophisticated look. There are different types of stone you can explore and many different paving patterns to consider from basic stretcher bond patterns to complex arrangements. Such driveways are often very durable and resistant to many weather conditions. 

Unfortunately, a paver stone driveway can be expensive – especially if you choose high quality paving slabs and use a professional company. It is possible to lay a paver stone driveway yourself, but if you do a poor job, you can increase the risk of stones coming loose and weeds growing between them. A good quality paver driveway is often low maintenance, but a poor quality one may require a lot of upkeep in the long run such as removing weeds and replacing slabs. 

Resin

Resin driveways are made from gravel that is binded together with epoxy resin to create a stone carpet. Such driveways can offer the aesthetics of a gravel driveway without needing to be raked or weeded. In fact, resin driveways are arguably the most low maintenance option, as well as being very durable – staying strong and looking good for years to come.

You’ll need to hire experts to lay a resin driveway. This can make resin driveways quite expensive – especially if you also choose a high quality gravel. It’s worth collecting multiple quotes and comparing prices.

Which driveway surface should you choose?

The right choice of driveway depends on your budget, local climate, lifestyle and long-term goals. If cutting costs is important to you, choose a gravel or asphalt driveway. If you want to splash out on something more luxurious, consider paving or resin. Those living in extreme climates may want to consider a concrete or resin driveway, while a gravel driveway may be suitable for flood-prone areas. Concrete and resin are the most low maintenance options, while well-installed pavers and resin are likely to stay looking good the longest and add the most value to your home.