Whether you'll want to install a driveway on the new home, or you need to replace your existing driveway, you're probably wondering which material is the most suitable. I am sure you did a little homework and know the three common materials used in construction, but you are you conscious of the benefits and conditions are associated with each? Depending on your financial allowance, tolerance for maintenance, and climate you should consider each driveway material carefully.
Concrete driveways, asphalt driveways, and brick or pavers will be the three most common types of residential driveways. If your first concern may be the cost then you can certainly always choose to use gravel. But if you live in a suburban community, you will likely have to install one of several other three types.
Asphalt driveways are cheaper than concrete and pavers. When budget is a primary concern, many homeowners go for asphalt. Asphalt driveways typically last around two decades and can be resurfaced. Repairs can also be easy to make. Asphalt driveways do present some problems though. They are not as durable as a concrete driveway, they are able to get softer in high heat climates, and they must be resealed every less than six years.
Driveways made out of pavers or bricks are really beautiful. However, their beauty comes with a exorbitant asking price. Paver driveways are more durable than asphalt driveways nevertheless they too have a very few downfalls. Price is usually the reason homeowners choose not to use bricks or pavers in their driveway construction. Also, in extreme cold and freezing, water could get in the seams involving the masonry and cause cracking or breaking. If the driveway was poorly installed, it might start to warp and weeds may begin to grow involving the bricks.
Concrete driveways tend to be expensive than asphalt, but less costly than brick driveways. Concrete is a popular choice among homeowners for several reasons. First of all they are really durable and require very little maintenance. When installed properly and sealed occasionally, they're able to last over 50 years. Concrete can also provide homeowners with additional versatile design choices.
For example, concrete may be either stained, painted, or have color combined with them when they are installed. This allows homeowners to really get creative with their concrete sidewalks. Another benefit is that it can also be stamped. This means that design patterns including bricks or stone may be stamped to the wet concrete before it dries. Once it's dried, a stamped concrete driveway can provide the look of a paver or stone driveway at a lower cost. Concrete does possess a couple of issues though. They will also be susceptible to cracking in cold temperatures, can stain easy, and will be expensive to correct. That being said, concrete provide you with the most durable and versatile solution.