When you are looking to install a new driveway, the options can be overwhelming. There are many materials and styles to choose from, and each has its own benefits and drawbacks. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most popular types of driveways and help you decide which one is right for your home.
Concrete driveways
Concrete driveways are one of the most popular types of driveway, often seen in many urban and suburban settings. They are exceptionally durable and can last for many years. Concrete is also affordable, making it a popular choice for homeowners on a budget. You can even customise them and give your driveway a unique appearance – an imprinted concrete driveway can look really similar to blockwork or cobblestone.
One thing to bear in mind is that concrete driveways can be sensitive to the cold. De-icing concrete can cause cracks, and ideally, the whole driveway will need to be replaced. They can also be quite heavy, which may make them an unsuitable choice for some areas.
Gravel driveways
Gravel driveways have been popular for years due to the relatively low installation cost. Gravel is much lighter than concrete, easy to install and maintain, making it suitable even for beginner DIYers. If you prefer the more natural look, gravel drive might be the right choice for you, and they can last a lifetime with proper care. Just make sure to keep on top of the weeds and top up the gravel every now and then.
Gravel may not be your best option if you live in an area with heavy rainfall or snowfall. As it spreads around, it tends to thin out and make way for potholes and puddles to form. Also, you may need to wash your car more regularly, as driving on gravel can produce more dust during drier months.
Brick pavers driveways
Paved driveways slot together like tiles and can be made using clay, concrete, or other materials. They look great and require hardly any maintenance. The shapes can be customised to suit uneven ground and smaller slopes and they feel extremely comfortable underfoot. A paved driveway is the best option for uneven areas, as the bricks aren’t as slippery as its concrete brother.
If you have a large area to pave, you’ll need a big budget. Installation can be labour intensive, making it one of the more expensive options. Water erosion can damage and crack the pavers, however individual pieces are pretty easy to replace.
There are many factors involved when it comes to choosing the right driveway for your home. Cost, maintenance, and longevity are important, but so is the correct installation by an experienced team. At LC Joinery, we can help you make the right choice for your lifestyle and budget. We instal driveways around central Scotland, so get in touch for more info or a free estimate. Check out our portfolio here.
Call LC Joinery at 01592 747 047 or email us at [email protected].
