Your driveway does not only have to be a place where you park your car, your driveway is inherently a extension of your landscaping design.
Selecting Between Asphalt, Gravel, Brick or Concrete Slabs for Landscaping Your Driveway
There are several materials to consider when choosing your new driveway material. Not only can each material add to the aesthetic appeal of your home, but they can also serve very practical functions as well.
Asphalt
Asphalt provides classic durability and ease of installation. Asphalt is less costly as well, averaging less than two dollars per square foot. Asphalt, however, is not exactly the most aesthetically pleasing option for your landscaping and although it can be relatively low maintenance it can be susceptible to cracks and divots that can quickly exacerbate without the proper repairs.
Gravel
Much like asphalt, gravel is inexpensive and simple to install, but might not add to the curb appeal or value of your home. Gravel driveways are very durable and easy to maintain. If you live in areas that have a lot of snowfall gravel can make shoveling a frustrating task due to its unevenness. Gravel can also scatter around the rest of your yard, which can be dusty and dirty affair.
Brick
The look of brick can add a touch of class to your home’s landscaping while at the same time being very durable. It is also easier to replace bricks which may become cracked over time due to wear and tear. Brick driveways can add more household maintenance to your day because weeds can grow between spaces in the bricks. Brick will also cost you a little more, each piece can cost about $15.
Concrete Slabs
Concrete driveways are generally inexpensive to install. Installing a concrete driveway over an existing gravel lot will cost a homeowner between $4 to $10 per square foot. Concrete is very durable lasting about and can last between 20 to 40 years. When it comes time to repair cracks you can opt to patch them, but generally tearing out the entire slab is usually the best option to maintain consistency. An entire replacement will require professional concrete contractors which can add to the cost. However, when using concrete slabs for landscaping your driveway it can create a appealing look with almost any type of home design.
Choosing the right driveway for you depends on your particular taste, location and needs, but can add functionality, style and value to your property. Helpful links.
