How To Choose The Best Driveway Paving Option For Your Home

When it comes to choosing paving for your driveway, some homeowners may resurface their driveway with the same type of paving, while others may choose the most affordable option. However, the most affordable option doesn’t always mean the best option. In this article, we will distinguish between the most common types of driveway paving, so that when it’s time to install your new or replacement driveway, you will know the best paving option to choose for your home.

Tarmac/Asphalt

Tarmac, or asphalt is one of the most popular types of driveway paving. It’s quick and easy to lay, making it ideal for large driveways. However, it’s not quite as aesthetically pleasing as other paving options, so it may not suit every style of property. Another problem with a tarmac or an asphalt driveway is certain spots can begin to sink from heavy use over time, creating continuous puddles of standing water on your driveway, leading to the growth of algae.

Loose Gravel

Like tarmac/asphalt, loose gravel is also easy and quick to install – it also has the added benefit of being the most affordable option. Gravel driveways tend to offer a natural aesthetic and are best suited to traditional property styles. When laid correctly, it offers natural drainage as it is a permeable material. This means it allows rainfall to pass and drain through, reducing the chances of your driveway becoming flooded.

However, a gravel driveway requires some maintenance such as topping up the gravel every one or two years, as well as regular weeding. If a gravel driveway is not laid and maintained correctly, it can cause potholes and other issues on your driveway. 

Block Paving

Another popular option for driveways is block paving. This material is aesthetically pleasing, low maintenance and available in different shapes and colours. Having said that, many homeowners with block paving experience issues further down the line including weed and moss growth, colour fading, unevenness, or sinking of pavers. Another problem is if the block paving is not permeable, you will need to install a suitable drainage system, which can add to the cost of installation.

Paving Slabs 

Similar to block paving, paving slabs are available in different colours, types (such as limestone and sandstone), shapes (such as square or rectangular) and various sizes. More visually appealing than other paving options, paving slabs can bring attractiveness to modern property styles. However, they are more commonly seen in smaller areas such as patios, as it can be quite expensive to lay a whole driveway with paving slabs. These slabs also require a well-laid sub-base. Without it, the slabs can be less durable and eventually may lead to cracks from heavy use. Another issue is the slabs can become slippery when wet, causing a safety hazard. If you have younger children or elderly family members in your household, paving slabs may not be the safest paving option for your driveway.

Concrete

If you are looking for something simple, a classic concrete driveway is a good option. Like loose gravel, it is another affordable option. Concrete is also low maintenance and extremely durable as it can last up to 30 years. However, a concrete driveway requires sealing every 3 to 5 years to prolong its lifespan. Without it, cracks and other damage can form. In terms of appearance, it may look too plain or basic for some homeowners and their property style.

Imprinted Concrete Driveways From Cobblecrete 

If you want a durable, low maintenance and aesthetically pleasing driveway, an imprinted concrete driveway is the way to go. Here at Cobblecrete, we have been laying them for homeowners across Wolverhampton for the last 30 years. What makes our imprinted concrete driveways different to other options is that your desired pattern is imprinted into the semi-firm concrete surface, giving the illusion of block paving or paving slabs without experiencing their disadvantages. In other words, it combines the practicality of a concrete surface and the design aspect of block paving or paving slabs.

From site preparation and drainage systems to adding crack control joints and finishing touches, our team is on hand to talk you through the whole installation process. We can advise you on different sizes, shapes, patterns and colour choices. If you’re interested in an imprinted concrete driveway for your home, please get in contact for more information by calling us on 07815 497939 today. We look forward to working with you and transforming your current driveway!