When it comes to home improvements and maintenance, driveways are often the most overlooked and underappreciated. Nevertheless, it is also one of the first aesthetic components people will notice when visiting your home. Regardless, the material you choose for your driveway will not only impact the way it looks, but also the function and durability. When installing a new residential driveway, there are many things to consider.
If you are thinking about a new asphalt driveway, you already know there are different materials to choose from. Two of the most common are asphalt and gravel, and both are affordable and provide benefits to your landscape. The advantages of using either of these materials can sometimes cause a debate over which is the best. Today’s article will provide you some of the information you will need to decide.
Asphalt has been a popular material for driveways for a very long time. Because of its initial sleek appearance, it can have a dramatic impact when first installed. Moreover, the material is extremely long-lasting and durable. You can expect an asphalt driveway to last between 30 and 40 years because, as opposed to a substance like concrete, it is a flexible paving material. That said, over time, cracks can form which may compromise its integrity. So, as with most things, regular maintenance is required.
On the other hand, gravel is growing in popularity. While typically used for country driveways, more urban and suburban homeowners are discovering the material’s beauty, benefits, and value. Gravel comes in a large variety of sizes and colors. Regardless, the reason many love gravel is that it is not usually affected by the weather and requires very little maintenance and upkeep. But, the price of gravel can vary widely based on the type of stone and where it was quarried. You may also need to store extra gravel to fill dips, gaps, and holes that will appear over time.
Today’s article provided some information for homeowners choosing between an asphalt driveway and a gravel driveway. Selecting the right material is important, and you should take enough time to consider the advantages and disadvantages of both.
What haven’t we covered yet that is important to you? If you would like to talk about whether an asphalt driveway or gravel driveway is right for you, or a related topic, please contact us.