Choosing the right paving for your driveway is a crucial decision that can affect your home’s kerb appeal, durability and maintenance requirements. There are a lot of important factors that should be taken into consideration when choosing your materials, including budget, aesthetics and practicality.
Determine Your Budget:
- Block paving and resin-bound driveways offer a high-end look but are typically more expensive.
- Tarmac and gravel are more budget-friendly options that still provide durability.
- Consider long-term costs such as maintenance and repairs when budgeting.
Durability and Longevity:
- Block paving is extremely durable and individual blocks can be replaced when damaged, meaning minimal disruption.
- Resin-bound surfaces are long-lasting and resistant to cracking.
- Tarmac is strong and resilient but may require resurfacing over time.
- Gravel can shift over time but is easy to replenish when needed.
Drainage and Weather Resistance:
- Most block paving is permeable and allows water to drain naturally, reducing the risk of flooding.
- Resin-bound surfaces are also highly porous, making them an excellent drainage-friendly option.
- Gravel driveways provide natural drainage but may require edging to contain loose stones.
- Tarmac and non-permeable block paving require additional drainage solutions.
Maintenance Requirements:
- Block paving requires some cleaning and weed prevention to maintain its appearance.
- Resin-bound driveways are low maintenance and only need occasional cleaning.
- Tarmac may require sealing or resurfacing after several years.
- Gravel needs raking and occasional top-ups to keep it level.
Aesthetic Appeal:
- Block paving offers a wide variety of patterns, colours and styles for a customised finish.
- Resin-bound surfaces create a smooth, modern and seamless look with multiple colour options.
- Gravel driveways give a classic, rustic appeal, ideal for traditional properties.
- Tarmac is a simple, sleek option that suits contemporary homes.
At Stone Made Drives, we provide high-quality driveway installations that blend seamlessly with your property. If you’re unsure which option is best for your property, our expert team at Stone Made Drives can help. Contact us today for professional advice!
