Many potential homeowners never give a second thought to driveway materials when looking at homes. However, a driveway can serve as an important part of the first impression of any home. A driveway can connect the property to the streetand is often one of the first things that someone notices when they pull up to a property. The types of driveway materials vary, but the most commonly found types are: concrete, asphalt, gravel, and brick/paving stones. No matter what type of driveway you install, you can add value, a unique style and curb appeal to your home.
Driveways typically can last a few decades with proper care and maintenance. The most basic, and often least expensive, are gravel driveways. Concrete and asphalt fall closely behind in price, and can also add value to your home. Some homeowners prefer to spend a little more money to gain a more customized driveway.
Asphalt and concrete driveways remain the two most popular driveway materials in the United States. However, there are pro’s and con’s to each. Asphalt can be easier to repair and costs less to install. However, concrete typically requires less maintenance overall and also lasts longer.
Brick and paver driveways can provide up to 25 years of use, can create the biggest visual impact for a driveway, and require little maintenance.
While the paver and brick looks can add great curb appeal to the home, the downside is that they can shift over time. If a paver or brick is broken, it can be easily replaced, but this type of driveway is initially more expensive than asphalt or concrete.
Stamped concrete can be used, not only for a driveway, but also for walkways and patios. Patterns can be utilized that mimic tile, brick, stone and other custom designs. Stamped concrete can be less expensive than installing brick pavers and also requires less maintenance when sealed properly.
Gravel or crushed stone are the least expensive of all driveway options and offer a variety of choices to choose from. This type of driveway material can be installed quickly and can also be added to over time as the rocks settle. The downside of gravel is that it has a shorter life expectancy and typically doesn’t add much, if any, property value.
Now that we have outlined several options of driveway building materials, here are a few key tips for driveway installation and maintenance:
• If you are hiring a contractor, then be sure that the contractor is knowledgeable and has experience with the specific type of driveway material that you are installing. When looking for a contractor, make sure to compare bids and also ensure that the bid includes the base materials.
• Do not hire a contractor based on getting a deal on “leftover” materials. These can be difficult to match and may not be enough to cover the entire driveway surface.
• Always get a written estimate and do a site review with the contractor to ensure that everyone agrees to the surface area to be covered.
• Consider the slope of the driveway and different drainage options. You want to verify that the water won’t pool and the driveway will be sloped away from the home and garage.
• Know where any underground utilities are in relation to the driveway.
• Site preparation is key to building a driveway that will last. Don’t skimp on this important step of any driveway construction.
• When considering what to choose as the driveway surface, make sure to take into account cost, regional weather, upkeep, stain removal and crack repairs.
If you are planning to give the exterior of your home a little love with a new driveway, check out Horizon at https://horizonremodelinginc.com]. Horizon will add artistic and aesthetic appeal to your home with a unique, beautiful driveway!
A driveway can serve as the first impression that visitors receive of your home. By installing and maintaining an inviting driveway, you can guarantee that visitors are welcomed by the pathway to your home. Not only can a driveway enhance the appearance of your home, but it can also add character as well. No matter what type of driveway you choose, you can ensure that it will last for many years to come and will also be an excellent investment.
