While there’s no discounting their intended purpose, driveways can and should be considered to be aesthetically pleasing – if done right. Fortunately, with the right contractor, this is a goal that’s easily achieved. However, it should be said that there’s a fair amount of leg work to assure that you’re getting exactly what you want. What many people don’t immediately consider is the vast amount of driveways that can be applied to the home.
In this post, it is our aim to talk about most of the popular types of driveways. We’ll also discuss some of the pros and cons of having them installed, as they all have different properties and assorted issues that they may come with. This is especially the case for us in this area, as we have a plethora of different climate issues, specifically when it comes to whether or not our selections will stand up to cold and freezing temperatures.
1. Concrete Driveway
Concrete is considered to be the most popular type for a number of reasons. Chief among these is the fact that it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to install. Furthermore, you don’t have to worry about its durability. It’s made to last. Concrete also offers some flexibility in its appearance. It can be stamped or dyed to change the color, texture, or richness. Many people even augment it to make it look more expensive.
While concrete is definitely known for its durability, concrete does have a main drawback. Concrete can be affected by extremely cold weather. While most homes in this area should be fine, it can be a concern.
2. Brick Driveway
Brick driveway has long been a favorite for plenty of homeowners and businesses alike. The fact is that brick driveways exude a certain level of class. It’s easy to see why; brick comes in a variety of colors and can be customized in such a way that it’s unlike virtually any other driveway made of the same composition.
There aren’t a ton of complaints when it comes to brick, but the most common complaints are that it’s expensive. But, as they say, you get what you pay for.
3. Asphalt Driveway
Asphalt is another popular choice because it’s very easy to install, especially when you compare it to concrete. This does allow a prospective party to save a little money on installation costs. An additional benefit is that the black assists greatly in melting snow that will inevitably fall in this area.
For some, this can be a gift and a curse. By virtue of asphalt only coming in one color, you really don’t get any customization options. Also, asphalt has sealing problems. You’ll have to get it resealed about once every four years or so.
4. Gravel Driveway
Gravel is a rocky surface that has always been a mainstay due to its expensive material. Since it’s readily available, you can expect to save a good amount of coin and headache involved in installation costs. It also comes in a great variety of colors, which will help you obtain the look and feel of a given driveway. Gravel also helps with water runoff.
Since gravel are small rocks, there will be a fair amount of shifting around over time. Most contractors recommend that you edge or layer the gravel to assist in its upkeep. Also, gravel isn’t always the best option for snowy regions.
5. Crushed Stone Driveway
We like a few things about crushed stone. Of all of these, crushed stone – while a bit similar – offers a smoother surface than what gravel can provide. However, like gravel, it does offer some flexibility in colors.
While there aren’t many drawbacks of implementing crushed stone, one major for our area is that it’s not the easiest for snow removal. This doesn’t discount it completely, but it does give you something to think about.
6. Paver Driveway
This type of drive is made from brick, concrete, or natural stone. With this amount of variety, you can essentially get your pick of the litter. It looks good, holds up, and does offer that “wow” factor when seen from the street.
The biggest con is expense here. With there being a myriad of types and surfaces, it can be hard to pin down exactly how much one will pay. However, it’s known to be one of the most expensive endeavors for driveways.
7. Basalt Driveway
We think that basalt is one of the more unique looks for driveways. Outside of its beauty, we also like that it’s very low maintenance and you don’t have to worry about its structural integrity – regardless of most climates.
Still, basalt is a material that requires a very skilled company to make it look right. This isn’t only in the actual work, but the selected contractor has to possess a keen eye during the consultation in the basalt’s design relative to your home.
8. Cobblestone Driveway
Cobblestone has always been a favorite style of driveway. This timeless design is one that comes with a multitude of different design choices. The durability of cobblestone is one that comes without much compare. It simply holds up without much maintenance.
Cobblestone does take a certain kind of company to handle. Belgian block pavers aren’t necessarily known to be cheap; these specialists aren’t found everywhere. Also, the surface of cobblestone isn’t always completely consistent, so you will have some difficulty cleaning snow.
9. Tar and Chip Driveway
Tar and chip may not be the most common choice, but it is one that we think should be talked about. It’s probably one of the best surfaces for traction. Additionally you’re not going to spend a lot of money on it. However, it does require a higher level of upkeep than many.
All of these driveways can be incredible for your home, given that you do the proper research and understand the advantages, disadvantages, and what you’re going to pay. It’s true that the plethora of companies in the Chicago-land area can adequately perform many of these tasks, having a driveway replaced because of adequate – if not worse – work will be nothing short of a headache.
With that said, it’s always best to get it right the first time. For a number of years, we have been providing these solutions – and more! – for our valued customers. If you’re looking for the best looking driveway in your neighborhood, do not hesitate to contact us at EuroPaving for an estimate. Not only do we exceed from a standpoint of expertise, but we also understand the importance of minding your budget.
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