If your driveway is in need of replacement, or if you want to switch to a new material, you’re in luck because you have many types of driveways to choose from. If you aren’t sure which option is right for you, keep reading to learn more.
1. Asphalt
Asphalt is an affordable option, but the driveway may only last 20 years, so you will need to replace it more often than other types of driveways. To ensure your driveway lasts 20 years, you will need to give your asphalt driveway a lot of attention and care, including sealcoating and patching holes.
Luckily, with asphalt, repairs are easy because you can just fill in the holes or cracks with new asphalt. You will be able to use your asphalt driveway as soon as it’s poured and dried, and as the temperature changes, the flexibility of the asphalt allows it to bend, reducing cracking. That said, oil is more damaging to asphalt than other types of driveways, and it will actually break down the asphalt.
2. Brick
Brick driveways can be incredibly beautiful and attract potential homebuyers thanks to their great curb appeal, but they can also be expensive. Using higher-quality materials and/or adding special designs or features will further increase the price.
With good care, your brick driveway may last up to 25 years or more, but brick driveways require a lot of maintenance. You’ll need to occasionally clean and seal the bricks. Even then, some mortar will breakdown, requiring patching. If you do forget to seal the bricks, the actual bricks may begin to flake or peel.
3. Gravel
A gravel driveway is one of the cheapest options and comes in many varieties. You can choose gravel, crushed gravel, different types of rock, etc. You can easily add the gravel yourself, and it can last forever as long as you keep adding more gravel or stones.
Over time, the gravel will get pushed into the ground, turning your gravel driveway into a dirt driveway. To save money, you can place something under the gravel to prevent it from sinking, or dig up some of the rocks, but the easiest solution is to just add more gravel as necessary. Gravel driveways don’t offer much curb appeal, so they may deter potential home buyers.
Ideally, asphalt or brick is the best choice for your driveway, but gravel can be an affordable alternative if you don’t have a big budget. All driveways require some maintenance, but if you’re looking for an easy-to-maintain option that looks good, asphalt may be a good choice.
For more information on asphalt driveways, or if you need yours repaired, contact us at Arrow Blacktop & Masonry, Inc., today. We always welcome all questions about asphalt and driveways in general, and we look forward to discussing your project with you.
