Residential Paving Options: Should You Choose An Asphalt Driveway?
Posted on: 21 March 2023
What type of material is the best choice for your residential paving project? You're ready to redo your driveway but aren't sure if asphalt, concrete, gravel, or another option is the right pick for the renovation project. Before you agree to an estimate or invest in a new driveway, take a look at what you need to know about home improvement paving options.
Do Different Materials Have Different Aesthetics?
Curb appeal is a major factor in any driveway renovation. Even if this area is partially hidden on the side or back of your home, the aesthetics will have a major impact on the resale value of your house (if you choose to sell your property in the future) and can either add to or take away from the overall exterior decor.
Each type of driveway material has a different look. If you want a smooth, clean surface that matches almost every type of exterior home decor, residential asphalt paving is a top option. This type of driveway eliminates the seams that you would find with concrete and won't have the bumpy texture of gravel or brick.
How Durable Are the Different Driveway Material Options?
Every driveway material has strengths and weaknesses. But this doesn't mean you won't find a highly durable or long-lasting option. Asphalt driveways have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). While this material can crack or pit, regular maintenance (including routine sealing) can increase the durability of asphalt and reduce the risks of damage or wear.
Like asphalt, concrete can also crack. Even though it is possible to patch a concrete driveway, you can't add a second layer of the material on top to resurface the area. Provided there isn't a substantial shift or upheaval in the base, you can recoat or resurface asphalt to create a new driveway layer and extend the lifespan of your investment.
Gravel driveways won't crack or chip like asphalt or concrete. Instead, these driveways may lose the surface layer as some of the gravel washes away over time. This makes it important to refresh the gravel routinely.
Which Type of Driveway Is the Most Economical Option?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors. These include the quality of the material, the size of your driveway project, the contractor/installation fees, where you live, and the scope of the project. In general, asphalt is one of the most affordable types of driveway materials. Ornamental pavers (concrete or brick) and specialty or custom creations are the most expensive.
Contact a residential paving contractor to learn more.
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