- Asphalt. Asphalt (sometimes called blacktop) is an ideal driveway material because it's affordable and durable.
- Poured Concrete. Another popular option among the various types of driveway surfaces is poured concrete. A concrete driveway can last for decades.
- Gravel. The most common type of loose aggregrate used for driveways is gravel. To make a gravel driveway, small stones are poured onto the driveway area.
- Paving Stones. When it comes to paving stones, there are no shortage of options available. Common choices include brick, cobblestone and flagstone.
- Oil and Stone. Oil and stone, also known as chip and tar, is a happy medium between a blacktop surface and gravel. ...
Full Answer
What driveway materials should you use?
5 Types of The Best Surface Gravel for Driveaway
- Crushed Stone #411. It is crushed up #57 stone combined with rock dust. ...
- Quarry Process. It is also called “crusher run” and works well for the surface of both driveways and walkways. ...
- Pea Gravel. Pea gravel is popular gravel for driveway aesthetics. ...
- Jersey Shore Gravel. ...
- Marble Chips. ...
- Blackstar or Blacktrap Rock. ...
What is the best material for a driveway?
Here are the pros of asphalt paving:
- It is less prone to frost heaves than is concrete.
- It offers superior ease of snow removal (but read about a puddling problem you may have in late winter at the bottom of this article).
- Both asphalt and concrete do offer decorative options, although the latter offers more.
- Unlike concrete, it can be re-layered.
What is the cheapest material for a driveway?
What are the Advantages of Gravel Driveways?
- Easy to Maintain. Gravel driveways are also easy to maintain. ...
- Affordable. One advantage that you can get from using gravel is that it is affordable. ...
- Easy Installation. Another advantage that you can get from gravel is that it is easy to install. ...
- Permeable. Gravel is also permeable. ...
What materials are best for steep driveways?
- Apply gravel to your steep driveway. If you have a steep incline from your recently constructed home, consider putting in a gravel driveway instead of a paved one.
- Add curves to your steep driveway.
- Create a safety barrier.
- Add a steep driveway ramp.
- Consider a resin driveway surface.
What material can you use for a driveway?
Driveway materials come in four major types, ranging from inexpensive, easy-to-install gravel, to expensive and elegant paver bricks made from natural stone, fired clay, or shaped and colored concrete. Between these extremes are the most popular paving materials for driveways: asphalt and poured concrete.
What is the best material to put on a driveway?
Concrete. Among the most durable options on the market is a concrete driveway surface. Although it provides a hard and stable surface, that is highly dependant on professional installation, high upfront costs, maintenance, and weather conditions.
What can I use for a driveway instead of concrete?
These are the best options for driveway surfaces gravel, because they are small stones combined with rock dust, which makes a more solid driving surface.Crushed Stone #411. It is crushed up #57 stone combined with rock dust. ... Quarry Process. ... Pea Gravel. ... Jersey Shore Gravel. ... Marble Chips. ... Blackstar or Blacktrap Rock.
What is the cheapest surface for a driveway?
A gravel driveway is by far the cheapest and quickest to install, especially if the existing driveway's sub-base is sound.
What is the most maintenance free driveway?
Low-Maintenance Driveway OptionsPaving Stones. Paving stones are known to last up to a full century if properly laid. ... Concrete Grass Pavers. An interlocking concrete grass paver driveway made may be an option for your driveway. ... Plastic Permeable Pavers.
What is the most popular driveway surface?
ConcreteConcrete is the most popular driveway material, and for good reason. Durable and low-maintenance, you won't have to give much thought to a concrete driveway.
What is the cheapest way to make a driveway?
Pound for pound, aggregate is the cheapest of these four common driveway materials. A basic gravel driveway can cost as little as $0.50 per square foot – an order of magnitude less than a professionally installed asphalt, stone, or concrete driveway. Durability. Aggregate is extremely durable.
What is a cheap alternative to concrete?
Gravel is one of the more common alternatives to concrete. There are a few different types you can find in the home improvement store that can replace concrete cement used for driveways and walkways. These include pea gravel, crushed stone, and quarry process.
What type of driveway lasts the longest?
ConcreteConcrete is the old standby for driveways. Most suburban homes opt for this material for two big reasons: Concrete is typically the longest-lasting driveway surface, and, if installed properly, it is practically maintenance-free.
How do you make a homemade driveway?
4:1810:01DIY Cement Driveway - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBefore we start I just wanted to explain that we put wire mesh and reinforcements all the way aroundMoreBefore we start I just wanted to explain that we put wire mesh and reinforcements all the way around the cement slab and anywhere a car will be pulling on or off of the cement slab.
What is the least expensive way to pave a driveway?
Gravel is one of the most inexpensive paving options for a driveway, at as little as 50 cents per square foot, according to the LandscapingNetwork. It provides a rustic look that works well with cottage-style homes, and it can be installed relatively quickly.
How much does a driveway add to property value?
5-10%You may be considering if the driveway is worth cleaning up, or about adding one to your home. You may be surprised to learn that a driveway does add value to your home. On estimate a driveway can increase your property's value by 5-10%. That is quite a bit for an area you do not really need to pay a lot to revamp.
What type of driveway lasts the longest?
ConcreteConcrete is the old standby for driveways. Most suburban homes opt for this material for two big reasons: Concrete is typically the longest-lasting driveway surface, and, if installed properly, it is practically maintenance-free.
Is gravel driveway cheaper than concrete?
Is a gravel driveway cheaper than a concrete one? A gravel driveway is a more budget-friendly option than paving with concrete, which runs from $4 to $15 per square foot.
What is the cheapest driveway surface Australia?
Gravel driveways are by far the cheapest driveway option in Australia. Often able to be laid without professional assistance, a gravel driveway will set you back around $15 per square metre, depending on your gravel of choice.
Is concrete driveway better than asphalt?
Concrete is more durable than asphalt. Because it is a less flexible material, it cracks in freezing temperatures, and many people turn to concrete patching products. Concrete offers 50+ years of use. The only maintenance required is occasional degreasing.
Get in the know with our guide to types of driveway materials
When considering the different types of driveway materials it's always best to choose ones which are recommended by people who know what they're talking about.
1. Concrete
Concrete driveways are extremely durable and can be a great option for a more modern-looking scheme. From an aesthetic point of view, you can't really go wrong with concrete for front yard landscaping as it's quite inoffensive but perhaps wouldn't be winning any prizes for ornate beauty.
2. Block paving
Block paving is a good choice if you fancy laying your driveway yourself. It can be installed as a DIY job as there are no special tools or equipment needed. Block paving can be quite durable, and the gaps in the pavers allow any weight to be spread evenly and safely.
3. Tarmac and asphalt
If you're looking for budget driveway ideas, these materials are affordable, durable, and can last for around 15 years without requiring any maintenance. But there are serious environmental considerations that those of us who are fans of sustainable gardens ought to be aware of.
4. Porcelain paving
Porcelain is one of the more expensive driveway options but it's considered an attractive modern paving idea. According to Anna Hampshire, Head of Domestic Marketing at Marshalls : 'The benefits of porcelain for an outdoor space are that it looks modern and is very low maintenance due to the low level of water absorption.
5. Resin bound
Resin Bound is a surface solution that involves a hard-wearing course of resin mixed with clean, dried, decorative aggregates. This is hand trowelled onto a new or existing base.
6. Stone Pavers
Natural stone is a classic choice for a driveway or patio which can be enhanced by combining with other rustic finishes such as your driveway gate or a fence. When it comes to natural stone, there are a range of choices depending on color and finish preference.
What is the best material for a driveway?
Asphalt. Asphal t driveways are a popular option in Northern U.S. climates, since the material is pliable and weathers freeze-thaw cycles better than concrete or pavers. Also, the black color of asphalt retains heat, which helps melt snow relatively quickly.
What color is crushed shell driveway?
Coming in three main varieties—clam, oyster, and scallop—these drives range in color, from off-white to gray to brown.
How long does a paver driveway last?
Although it's more expensive than some other materials to install, a paver driveway carries relatively low long-term maintenance costs and can last 30 to 40 years.
Is a concrete driveway durable?
A concrete driveway is versatile, durable, low-maintenance and cost-friendly in the long term, making it another popular choice, but one that is suitable for any part of the country. The design of a concrete drive can be simple and traditional (as pictured) or made elaborate with color, texture, and decorative flourishes.
Is brick driveway good for resale?
Though expensive to install, they can have a big, positive impact on a home's resale value. If installed properly, the maintenance costs are modest, and the material should last a lifetime.
Is gravel driveway good for snow?
Though initial installation costs for gravel are low, the ongoing maintenance requirements are considerable, and it's not the best choice for snowy regions. Quick to install, the material comes in different colors, allowing customized looks to complement your specific house style.
Is grass permeable for driveway?
Of course, grass is permeable, and as a driveway material, it's pretty darn cool to look at. Photo: istockphoto.com.
Why is it Important to Find the Right Driveway Material?
It is important to find the right driveway material because it is one of the first things that people see when they look at your house. Moreover, you need to make sure that you choose a material that suits the weather conditions in your area.
How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost?
Concrete is an affordable material, especially for small driveways. It can cost about three to ten dollars per square foot. Hence, a driveway that measures 100 square feet will cost about 300 to 1,000 dollars. It is a good deal especially for home maintenance and renovation costs.
Advantages of Concrete Driveways
Some of the advantages of concrete driveways include durability, low maintenance, customizable, appearance, and cost. It is an ideal material if you want to have a driveway that has a solid look and can last for a long time. Let us learn more about this below.
Disadvantages of Concrete Driveways
Concrete driveways also have their disadvantages which include cracking over time, hard to repair, and staining. You need to be aware of these disadvantages so that you can determine what to do in case you have to deal with them. Let us discuss more these disadvantages below.
Types of Driveway Materials
The different types of driveway materials include concrete, paver, shell, asphalt, previous concrete, grass, basalt paver tiles, and bricks. The things that you need to consider when choosing the material are durability, safety, weather conditions, and appearance.
What is the Most Expensive Driveway Material?
Concrete and resin are two of the most expensive driveway material available. On the other hand, gravel is the cheapest material that you can choose. Take note that the groundwork and the material that you choose will affect the cost of your driveway.
How Thick Should a Driveway Be?
If you have non-reinforced pavement, the standard thickness for a passenger car driveway is 4 inches. If you have heavier vehicles, make sure that your driveway has a thickness of 5 inches. Avoid water stuck-up on your driveway by having proper drainage.
Asphalt
Asphalt (sometimes called blacktop) is an ideal driveway material because it's affordable and durable. When you install an asphalt driveway and care for it properly, you can expect it to last about 15 years. Some asphalt driveways last even longer!
Poured Concrete
Another popular option among the various types of driveway surfaces is poured concrete. A concrete driveway can last for decades. However, that sort of longevity comes at a cost; concrete is one of the higher-priced driveway materials.
Gravel
The most common type of loose aggregrate used for driveways is gravel. To make a gravel driveway, small stones are poured onto the driveway area. These loose stones are spread evenly to create a surface on which to drive.
Paving Stones
When it comes to paving stones, there are no shortage of options available. Common choices include brick, cobblestone and flagstone. These natural and manmade stones come in a wide variety of colors. Brick and cobblestone are particularly useful for laying in interesting decorative patterns.
Oil and Stone
Oil and stone, also known as chip and tar, is a happy medium between a blacktop surface and gravel. Once the driveway area has been prepared, a coat of hot oil is applied with a special sprayer attachment. Natural stone is then installed (raked by hand) over the hot oil creating a bond to hold the stone in place.
What is the best driveway material for a driveway?
Brick pavers. Bricks are another option for an eco-friendly driveway. Brick pavers are made from natural clay and are kiln-baked, so there is less damage to the environment as compared to stone, which involves large-scale quarrying and long-distance freightage.
What is concrete pavers?
Concrete pavers are low-maintenance and impart a very neat look to the driveway. They also have an excellent surface drainage quotient as rain water can easily seep through the gaps and joints, recharging ground water. They provide excellent traction for wheels and are easy for walking.
Is pavers kinder on feet?
But they are kinder on the feet and environmentally friendly (as they are made from recycled materials and let water through to the ground). Tip: To avoid tiles coming loose along the sides of the pavement, they should be finished with an edging or a border. The base should be prepared well, as for any pavers.
Is hard concrete good for driveways?
The combination of hard concrete and soft grass is a treat to the eyes and is guaranteed to bring a sense of relaxation. Such driveways effortlessly blend with the landscape and go well in farmhouses or weekend homes. However, the grass will need regular maintenance.
Is sandstone porous?
The best part about sandstone is that it ages very well and looks even more elegant over a period of time. Tip: Sandstone is porous and tends to get stained by grease or chemicals. At the time of installation, make sure that the stone surface is properly sealed. Save Photo.
Is driveway a stepmotherly treatment?
Yet, the driveway is often given a stepmotherly treatment. You can have paving that combines practicality with good looks, adding to the character of your house. After all, this is where your domain begins, and like your house, your driveway is a reflection of your tastes.
How to personalize a driveway?
Another way to personalize your property is by building a sandstone brick driveway. Sandstone is a naturally occurring material. Weather events cement sand into grainy layers, resulting in a stone-like substance. Experts cut it out and hone it into bricks. Each brick is durable, porous and easily customizable.
What is the best way to remove carbon dioxide from a driveway?
1. Crushed Concrete. Concrete isn’t a naturally occurring material, but many homeowners rely on it for their driveways. It adds to water runoff that drains nutrients from your yard and creates carbon dioxide during production. Take advantage of leftover concrete at demolition sites by crushing and reusing it.
What is crushed concrete?
Crushed concrete includes material from sidewalks, building foundations and pavements that doesn’t serve a purpose anymore. It creates a driveway identical to traditional concrete, but the small holes allow water filtration so runoff doesn’t strip nutrients from the surrounding environment. 2. Natural Stone Pavers.
What is permanent pavement?
Perpetual pavement uses a mix of both and layers them with recycled materials for added durability. Depending on which team you hire, you could also request pulverized concrete as one of the under-layers. It comes from unused concrete wasting away at demolition sites and gives it a new purpose in your driveway.
Why is concrete permeable?
Permeable concrete prevents water runoff and requires less material to fill your driveway’s surface area. It cuts a few corners regarding production-related pollution and helps your neighborhood wildlife thrive.
Can you sealcoat asphalt?
Sealcoating for Asphalt. You might have an asphalt driveway that came with your house, although it’s not sustainable. Instead of paying for an expensive, unsustainable replacement material, look into an eco-friendly seal coat to make it last longer without adding to environmental pollution.
Do pavers need to be produced?
Unlike cement versions that use interlocking edges to create driveways, stone pavers don’t require production which adds to atmospheric CO2.
5. Crusher Run
Crusher Run is a rarer type of gravel used for driveways. It is a blend of tiny crushed stone and stone dust. It usually has more dust in it than smaller stones when compared to other types of top-level gravel. As it settles, the dust sinks into the space between the rocks, creating a smooth and solid surface.
6. Pea Gravel
This sort of gravel is designed to be more aesthetically pleasing than other options. It is made of weathered stones that are smooth, small, and rounded. It is a suitable top layer and more comfortable to walk on than other options.
7. Jersey Shore Gravel
Unlike most types of gravel, this gravel has a yellowish tint. It is composited of many different shades of gold, brown, and white. It looks a lot like beach sand, which is probably where it gets its name from. It is popular in beach areas for this reason.
8. Marble Chips
These white chips are very aesthetically pleasing. They shimmer in the sunlight and have a considerably different appearance than usual gravel. It is more elegant and may be suitable for your home, depending on your landscaping.
9. River Rock
As you might expect, this type of gravel is composed of river rocks. The stones are rounded and somewhat polished. Often, they come from actual river beds. This is not the best material for the top layer of a driveway, as they will shift significantly under the weight of a heavy vehicle.
