Tarmac: Popular & Low Maintenance
Tarmac driveways can offer many benefits compared to other surfaces. It may not be the prettiest to look at but its lower cost compared to other surfaces is a draw point, as well as its durability and resistance to the temperature changes we’re accustomed to in the UK. If looked after, a tarmac driveway can last for up to 20 years and any repairs you do need to make thankfully won’t cost you an arm and a leg. The only downside is that over time, it can wear and look unsightly, and it also has the tendency to become sticky.Block Paving: Popular & Looks Great
Block-paving driveways are mainly chosen for their aesthetic appeal, you will no doubt have seen the neighbours’ perfectly laid block-paving driveways and wondered how you get one for yourself. Block-paved driveways weather really well if taken care of and cleaned carefully, and they tend to do well under threats of heavy rain and frost, providing more grip in contrast to concrete. Block paving offers a 25-year lifespan, however, it can be more on the pricey side compared to other forms of driveways, but it’s a mid-point between beauty and durability.Resin Bound: Modern Alternative
A resin bound driveway can offer a great aesthetic appeal alongside durability with fluctuating temperatures and can be customised with different types of decorative aggregates, glued together using a clear resin. This is the fastest-growing surfacing solution in the UK and is easy to clean, resistant to weeds, and retains its vibrant appearance over time. Resin driveways can last up to 25 years if taken care of but are a little more expensive than other surfacing on the market.Asphalt: Practical & Simple
Definitely one of the cheaper options but that doesn’t take away from what a fantastic choice it is for a driveway. Asphalt is low maintenance and highly permeable, meaning that it will let water soak through without the risk of puddling and flooding. It can withstand all kinds of weather damage and with the right type of care and maintenance, you can expect your asphalt driveway to last up to 20 years.Indian Stone: Elegant & Versatile
We often get asked whether you can use Indian stone on a driveway and it’s understandable why, as the elegance and versatility it offers with a wide range of colours, textures, and sizes can transform any outdoor surface. One thing to keep in mind with Indian stone is how you intend to use your driveway i.e. if it will be a working driveway for regularly parked family cars or if it’s going to be a space for other types of vehicles such as caravans and motorhomes, this will affect the thickness of the stone you need to use. Indian stone is definitely one of the more aesthetically pleasing options for driveways and providing you look after it, it can last you around 20 to 30 years.How to Choose the Right Surface for Your Driveway
As a professional surfacing specialist, we offer lots of incredible driveway options, and we can help advise you on which to choose. When making your decision, keep the below in mind:- Cost – as well as needing to be able to fit into your budget, you also need to work out if your new driveway is going to add any value to your property. Consider the convenience of your new surface to future buyers and also how easy it is for them to maintain.
- Maintenance – some driveways need more looking after than others, so this needs to be factored into your lifestyle. Concrete is easier to care for than asphalt so if you have a young family and your time poor, then concrete may be the way to go.
- Aesthetic – in order to get the best out of your new driveway it’s important to ask yourself if the type of surface you want matches the aesthetic of your property, both for you and future buyers.
