Compares the most frequently used driveway materials, discussing their advantages, disadvantages, and associated costs to determine which one is the superior choice
Comparing Driveway Materials: Gravel, Block Paving, Resin Bound Gravel, Tarmac, and Imprinted Concrete
In the realm of home exterior design, the choice of driveway material can significantly impact both aesthetics and performance. Here's a breakdown of five popular options: gravel, block paving, resin bound gravel, tarmac, and imprinted concrete.
1. Gravel Driveways
Gravel driveways offer an affordable and environmentally friendly option. With a lifespan of up to 100 years and low maintenance requirements, they are a budget-friendly choice. However, gravel may scatter beyond the driveway area if not properly edged, and frequent replenishing may be necessary in high-traffic areas.
2. Block Paving (Concrete Pavers)
Block paving is a versatile option with a wide range of colours, shapes, and sizes, providing design flexibility. It is durable, resistant to cracking, chipping, and fading if correctly installed. Maintenance is minimal, and it offers a more affordable alternative to natural stone pavers while still providing a comparable aesthetic. The uniformity of block paving may make it less unique compared to natural stone. Over time, resealing may be necessary to maintain colour vibrancy.
3. Resin Bound Gravel
Resin bound gravel driveways boast a modern, seamless, and highly customizable appearance. With a permeable surface, they prevent water pooling and ice formation, improving safety and drainage. Resistant to cracking, UV damage, oil stains, and freeze-thaw cycles, they are flexible to ground movement. With a lifespan of 20-25 years and minimal maintenance, they are a durable choice. However, their higher upfront cost and the requirement for professional installation make them a premium choice.
4. Tarmac (Asphalt)
Tarmac driveways offer a cost-effective and quick-to-install solution. They provide a smooth, solid, and weather-resistant surface suitable for heavy use. However, they can soften in extreme heat and may develop cracks over time without maintenance. Tarmac typically offers limited design options.
5. Imprinted Concrete
Imprinted concrete driveways provide decorative patterns and textures mimicking stone or brick at a lower cost. They are durable and long-lasting. Customizable colours and designs enhance curb appeal. However, they can crack over time due to ground movement if not properly installed, and maintenance may be necessary to retain their appearance.
In conclusion, gravel offers a low-cost, natural, and reusable option but with less formal aesthetics, while block paving provides durable versatility at a moderate cost. Resin bound gravel is a premium, durable, and customizable choice with excellent drainage but higher investment. Tarmac offers cost-effectiveness with basic aesthetics, and imprinted concrete balances decorative appeal with durability but may need occasional maintenance. Selecting the best material depends on balancing budget, desired appearance, durability needs, and maintenance preferences.
Grass and gravel grids can often be laid directly on the base left after lifting slabs or block-pavers, meaning less ground preparation is required. Imprinted concrete driveways may have a more complex and expensive installation process. Imprinted concrete driveways have no joints, making them less likely to have weeds sprout than with gravel or block paving. The price of resin bound gravel can be as much as £200/m2 in certain parts or if there's a lot of groundwork to be done. Tarmac driveways are suitable for heavy use and can last for 10-15 years before starting to degrade.
- A home's exterior design can be enhanced with fashion-and-beauty elements such as the choice of a stylish imprinted concrete driveway, offering decorative patterns and textures.
- Upgrading one's home, both indoor and outdoor, may include a lifestyle change; for instance, opting for low-maintenance grass and gravel grids in the home-and-garden area, reducing prep work after removing old driveway materials.
