When you’re designing your new home and determining how it will look, another important consideration is for the driveway. There are many choices for the driveway surface, including concrete, asphalt, pavers, gravel, shell, and crushed stone. Your choice will, of course, be based on personal requirements and opinion, but here is a brief overview of the different options for your driveway surface.
Concrete
Concrete is a long-lasting option that now comes in a selection of colors. Concrete is installed in large slabs, leaving expansion joints between the slabs to mitigate damage due to thermal expansion and contraction. There are many options with concrete for color or patterns to be stamped on the surface. Some people like exposed aggregate concrete, which incorporates a decorative gravel (aggregate) into the surface. Concrete must be sealed, but generally lasts a few decades.
Pavers
Stone paving for a driveway is rare because of the expense, but there are other options such as concrete pavers or brick. This option can be a bit more expensive, but it gives a great historical look to the surface. Sometimes pavers can be made into geometric or natural patterns that give the driveway added beauty.
Asphalt
Asphalt is less expensive than concrete, and it does not require expansion joints. Although it doesn’t last quite as long, it is a great option for a smooth, flat surface. Like concrete, there are now options for coloring the asphalt, often in various earth tones. Asphalt does require sealing and some upkeep, but it’s a great option for a driveway.
Gravel/Crushed Stone
Gravel is the least expensive driveway surface, but it also requires the most upkeep, as the stones are loose and need to be adjusted or replaced if they wander off. Crushed stone is generally smaller than rough gravel, offering a smoother surface because of the size of the pebbles, and it comes in a variety of colors.
Of course, a driveway can be designed that incorporates more than one of these options: for example, a concrete driveway might use brick or other pavers in its expansion joints as a decorative addition. If using pavers on the entire driveway is not feasible, they can be great for the front walkway. If you have any questions about the driveway, or about building your own custom home, be sure to contact Harden Custom Homes. Call 239.205.5075 today.