How to choose the right driveway material

You’ll need to hire a reliable concreter to install a new driveway or upgrade an old one, as well as explore the several types, designs, and materials to suit your property.

In this guide, we'll look at a few of the criteria that will help you choose your ideal driveway. We’ll also discuss budgeting and how driveway size and appearance impact your space. 

Overview

• What kind of appearance do you want?
• How do you use your driveway?
• What’s your budget?
• What kind of weather do you experience in your area?
• Best driveways materials to consider

What kind of appearance do you want?

When considering a new driveway, it’s important to find the right balance between aesthetics and function, longevity, and price. Fortunately, there are several driveway materials to pick from, such as gravel, concrete, and asphalt, as well as a plethora of designs, colours, and shapes. 

It’s important to dedicate significant time to the planning process so you can create the most desirable outcome. Some people prefer a more rugged, casual driveway appearance, while other may desire a more tidy, sleek style.

To improve the appearance of a long driveway, choose lower-cost materials for the very start of the entrance. Then, install an impressive driveway gate or other landscaping feature that divides the long drive from the main driveway portion directly in front of your house. Here, you can use a higher quality material to make an impact.

How do you use your driveway?

The driveway is a high-traffic area of your property. When planning, take into account how you use your driveway today and how you will use it in the future.

Do you have kids running around in your driveway? They may benefit from having a basketball court in front of the house so they can play with their friends. Is the area going to be used for parties? In these instances, If you’ll often have people standing or walking on your driveway, your best choice is to go with a durable and easy-to-clean material like concrete or asphalt.

Or, if the primary purpose of your driveway is to display your cars or boost the visual charm of your house, then you might prefer to select a high-end design constructed from pavers.

What’s your budget?

Most of us have big ambitions; however, reality can hit swiftly when it comes to finances. Your budget plays a significant role in the decision-making process for constructing a driveway. 

If you're on a limited budget but still want a nice-looking driveway, then go with concrete, conventional brick pavers, or asphalt. There are various alternatives, such as stamping, staining, or rubberising, that can further enhance the appearance of these materials for a long time.

Explore more driveway ideas to consider which is best for your budget.

What kind of weather do you experience in your area?

Different climates can have varying effects on driveway materials, so it's important to choose one that can withstand the conditions in your area. Here are some of the best driveway materials for different climates:

Hot and Dry Climates

In hot and dry climates, materials that can reflect heat and withstand high temperatures are ideal. Concrete and asphalt are popular choices as they can reflect heat and are durable. Pavers and interlocking stones are also good options as they allow for better heat dissipation.

Cold Climates

In cold climates, freeze-thaw cycles can cause driveway materials to crack and break. Materials that are flexible and can withstand repeated freezing and thawing are ideal. Asphalt and concrete are good choices, as long as they are properly installed and maintained. Concrete pavers are also beneficial, as they are more flexible than solid concrete and are less likely to crack.

Rainy Climates

In rainy climates, driveway materials that can withstand water exposure are ideal. Asphalt and concrete are decent options, as they are water-resistant and can handle heavy rain. Permeable pavers and gravel driveways are preferable as they allow water to drain through the surface.

Snowy Climates 

In snowy climates, driveway materials that can handle snow ploughs and heavy snowfall are ideal. Concrete and asphalt are good choices, but keep in mind they can become slippery when covered in snow and ice. Interlocking pavers and gravel driveways are not recommended as they can become dislodged by snow ploughs.

Best Driveways Materials to Consider

Here are the top materials to assist you to decide on the best materials for your driveway:

Gravel

Gravel is an excellent choice for those on a tight budget, particularly those with longer driveways. Another advantage is that it compacts much more effectively than plain rocks, producing a more durable foundation surface that conveniently removes water.

Concrete

When it comes to sturdiness and adaptability, concrete is unrivalled. It comprises different kinds of stone combined with water and a lime-based binder. It offers a seamless, reliable, and stable groundwork that holds up well in any climatic changes and necessitates very little maintenance.

Asphalt

Asphalt is primarily made of sand, rock, and cement and offers various benefits. The asphalt driveway, when correctly constructed, will look and function much like concrete but is significantly cheaper. Moreover, it is permeable and less prone to break down in the weather.

Paving Stones

Paving-stone driveways may last up to a decade if properly placed and look high-quality, making them a terrific alternative for enhanced aesthetic appeal. Pavers, made of solid granite, basalt, or other stone, need minimal upkeep and avoid water from gathering. 

A stunning and usable driveway will make your house more appealing and may increase the value of your property when you sell it. In order to have a welcoming driveway for years to come, it’s vital to have the construction appropriately done with quality materials and comply with local regulations. 

If you want to construct a driveway or modify an existing one, you should do some research, hire a professional, and gather concreter prices before making a final decision. There are various kinds of driveway designs to consider, and you must ensure that whatever you've selected meets not just the budget but also any additional needs you have now and for the future.

Further Reading

• 5 Things You Need to Know About Concrete Replacement
• How Much Can Concrete Stencilling Cost? | 2023 Cost Guide
• 4 Things You Should Know Before Painting a Concrete Driveway
• Helpful Tips for Hiring a Concreter