If you are planning to install a new driveway to your property, it is important to understand the different types of materials and the most popular ones. Driveways are always a great feature to any property and adopt many benefits to the home. Benefits like convenience, parking, increased property value, improved exterior appearance etc all matter when it comes down to selling the property. Driveways are often favoured by potential buyers and can guarantee a quick sale.
Tarmac Driveway
Tarmac is a popular material that is mostly used on roads. It can also be used for driveways and is preferred by many. This is because tarmac is an easy to install, low maintenance material that provides homes with a sleek and simple looking drive yet on a low budget. It has impressive durability and is usually complete within a day, which also keeps labour costs down. If over time your tarmac driveway experiences some cracks and wear and tear damage, it is easy enough to hire a tarmac resurfacing company to remedy this.
Gravel Driveway
There are several different types of gravel for driveways. Some are fine, while others are coarse. Both options have their pros and cons. Gravel is a relatively inexpensive material, but it is difficult to maintain and is not the most attractive option. Aggregate is also difficult to remove from snowploughs, which sprays gravel all over the driveway. This can reduce the life of the driveway. In addition, gravel is prone to rutting, which can pose a hazard to drivers. Gravel is a great choice for areas with little snowfall. However, it can become uneven over time and requires regular grading.
Paver Driveway
Paver driveways are a great choice for those interested in durability and low-maintenance costs. While poured concrete can last many years, it is subject to cracking over time, especially if exposed to extreme temperatures or shifting soil. To reduce the chances of cracking, concrete driveways can be installed with control joints and steel reinforcement. Additionally, the sub soil should be properly compacted.
Paver driveways can mimic the look of brick or stone, and they can add curb appeal to your home. They also can be replaced if they are damaged or cracked. However, they tend to cost more than asphalt and other paved materials.
Brick Driveway
Brick driveways are classic and elegant and add a beautiful and timeless look to your home. They are made of clay and are moulded into forms and then cured at high temperatures to make them durable and resistant to the elements. Depending on the type and size of bricks used, a brick driveway can last for several decades.
Bricks can be installed in two different patterns: offset and running bond
Resin Driveways
Resin driveways are very durable and are one of the best driveway materials for long-term use. They do not break down or splinter because of their high permeable surface, and they do not allow standing water to form. They are also extremely environmentally friendly, and use recycled and natural materials in their construction.
