The driveway is frequently overlooked when considering a home’s curb appeal. Different driveway options can improve the curb appeal of a home, but some driveway materials are also better suited to various climates. 

Before making a choice, take the time to weigh the costs, maintenance requirements, and potential benefits of each style of driveway.

Different Driveway Types

Every driveway material has advantages and disadvantages. Some solutions are significantly more affordable, however, saving money isn’t always the best course of action. 

Further, even though they may initially cost more, some driveway choices will increase the property’s value. Below are some of the most common driveway styles.

Concrete

The most common driveway material, concrete, is widely used for good reason. A concrete driveway is resilient and low-maintenance. Although it may not garner as many compliments as more luxury options, concrete is a consistently reliable option at a reasonable cost.

Asphalt

Asphalt is a desirable alternative for homeowners with long driveways and/or tight budgets since it has a great, hard surface and a relatively low installation cost. It works best in cooler environments and needs to be resealed every few years to increase its serviceability.

Turf

This driveway choice typically combines grass with permeable pavers or concrete blocks, making it more of a mixed driveway than a simple grass driveway. The end effect is a beautiful entrance to the garage. 

Turf driveways, however, are not appropriate for areas that frequently experience drought or snow.

Brick

Historic homes frequently have brick driveways because it is a durable material that may endure a lifetime. Naturally, those benefits come at a higher initial cost for the supplies and installation. Brick can be an alluring alternative for many homeowners because of its low care requirements and elegant appearance.

Gravel

The pricing of gravel as a driveway material is its main selling point. It is considerably less expensive to install than a paver, brick, or even concrete driveway, costing about $1 to $2 on average per square foot. 

Because of this, gravel driveways are a particularly appealing alternative for homeowners with long driveways, which is why they are so common in rural locations. Every few years, the gravel needs to be replenished and should receive regular maintenance.

Stamped Concrete

Concrete’s lifetime, durability, means that it lasts a very long time and is easy to maintain. 

However, stamped concrete driveways cost more than regular concrete driveways since installing them requires more work.

Conclusion

The driveway’s material, labor requirements, and dimensions all affect how much it will cost to install a new driveway. Any material other than gravel for a long, curving driveway might be too expensive. 

Even though brick, or stamped concrete are unquestionably more expensive, a tiny driveway may not incur a significant overall expense. To get an accurate estimate of various driveway options, make sure to measure the whole square footage of the driveway space.

If you want an asphalt driveway in Granite Bay, don’t hesitate to choose Todd Heldt Excavating, Inc. We’re a successful paving contractor and asphalt company offering asphalt driveways, paving, grading, and road construction. Call us now to receive quality work and customer service!

Asphalt driveways are a popular choice for many homeowners because they are relatively affordable and easy to maintain. However, there are some drawbacks to asphalt driveways that you should be aware of before making a decision. In this article, we will take a look at the pros and cons of asphalt driveways so that you can make an informed decision.

PROS 

1. Asphalt Driveways are Relatively Affordable

Asphalt driveways are one of the most affordable driveway options available on the market. When compared to concrete and paving stone driveways, asphalt driveways are significantly less expensive. This makes asphalt driveways a great choice for homeowners who are working with a tight budget.

2. Asphalt Driveways are Easy to Maintain

Asphalt driveways are easy to maintain. You will need to seal your asphalt driveway every few years to prevent cracking and weather damage, but other than that, there is very little maintenance required.

3. Asphalt Driveways are Durable

Asphalt driveways are very durable. They can withstand a lot of wear and tear and will last for many years if they are properly maintained.

4. Asphalt Driveways can be Repaired Relatively Easily

If your asphalt driveway does develop cracks or other damage, it can be repaired relatively easily. This is not the case with all driveway materials. For example, concrete driveways are very difficult to repair once they have been damaged.

5. Asphalt Driveways Look Good

Asphalt driveways can give your home a very polished and professional look. They are also available in a variety of colors, so you can find an asphalt driveway that will complement the style of your home.

CONS 

1. Asphalt Driveways Can Be Susceptible to Cracking in Cold Weather

If you live in a climate that experiences cold winters, your asphalt driveway may be susceptible to cracking. Cracks in your asphalt driveway can allow water to seep underneath, which can cause further damage to the driveway and create a trip hazard.

2. Asphalt Driveways Can Be Slippery When Wet

Asphalt driveways can be slippery when wet, so it is important to take caution when walking or driving on them. If you live in an area that experiences a lot of rain or snow, you may want to consider installing a non-slip surface on your asphalt driveway.

3. Asphalt Driveways Can Be Stained by Oil and Other Fluids

If you have an asphalt driveway, you will need to be careful not to spill any oil or other fluids on it. Oil and other fluids can cause permanent stains on your asphalt driveway.

4. Asphalt Driveways Can Be Hot in the Summer

If you live in an area that experiences hot summers, your asphalt driveway can become extremely hot. This can be a problem if you have young children or pets who may walk on the driveway and burn their feet.

5. Asphalt Driveways Can Be Difficult to Remove

If you ever need to remove your asphalt driveway, it can be a difficult and time-consuming process.

Is Asphalt the Right Choice for Your Driveway? 

Asphalt has several advantages that make it a popular choice for driveways. For example, asphalt is a relatively inexpensive material and can be installed quickly. In addition, asphalt is easy to maintain and can last for many years if it is properly cared for. However, there are some disadvantages to asphalt driveways that you should be aware of before making a final decision.

Asphalt driveways can be susceptible to damage from the elements. For example, if there is a lot of rain or snow, the asphalt can crack and crumble. In addition, if the driveway is not properly sealed, it can become stained and cracked. Asphalt driveways can also be slippery when wet, which can be a safety hazard.

If you are considering asphalt for your driveway, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Asphalt driveways have several advantages, but there are also some disadvantages that you should be aware of. In the end, the best way to decide if asphalt is the right choice for your driveway is to consult with a professional.

Todd Heldt Excavating, Inc. can help you get the driveway of your dreams. Not only do we do paving, but we do asphalt driveway repair in Granite Bay for any of your needs. Get in touch with us today to get started.