Explore Different Driveway Types for Every Style and Budget
If you are looking at a driveway installation, choose the right type of residential driveway you want, one with functionality that matches your home appearance. In this blog, we will look at the different types of driveway surfaces and the pros and cons of each driveway styles.
In this post, you will learn:
Evaluating Driveway Materials: Finding the Best Fit for Your Needs
Whether you are building a brand-new property or looking at types of residential driveways as part of a refresh, before you start pricing the different types of driveway surfaces, there are some key factors to consider first. The overall square feet of your intended driveway, if there is a current driveway, the cost and effort it will take to remove it, the frequency of use and the local climate. These factors can help you narrow down which of the driveway pavement options are best for you. Driveway styles should also complement your home's exterior and landscape for maximum curb appeal.
Concrete Driveways – Durable and Versatile
Most people are familiar with concrete driveways. They are one of the most popular types of driveway paving. Concrete driveways are intended to be durable and withstand temperature changes, making them ideal for suburbs and homes in South Carolina. They can also be customized with stamping, staining, and finishing options.
Because they are so durable and have minimal upkeep, they do have an initial installation cost that may be higher than some other options. They can also be prone to cracks over time if the ground around or under them settles.
Asphalt Driveways – Affordable and Easy to Repair
Asphalt driveways can be one of the more striking driveway pavement options (The Benefits of Gravel Driveway Installation) that can balance cost and functionality. Its quick installation process and ease of maintenance make it a popular choice for residential driveways. Being easy to repair helps offset the cracks that can come from severe temperature fluctuations, which would otherwise shorten its lifespan compared to other types of driveway surfaces.
Regular sealing can help extend the life of your asphalt driveway, especially in areas like South Carolina, where weather conditions can vary.
Gravel Driveways – Budget-Friendly and Rustic
Gravel is an economical choice that can even be customizable with different types of rock for driveways , such as river rock, marble chips, and Blackstar or blackstrap rock, as well as the traditional pea gravel varieties. These add a charming rustic look to any property but are most common for rural residential driveways.
The care of a gravel drive involves regular leveling, replenishing gravel volume as it can be carried off by tires and other environmental changes, and checking for rocks that have migrated from the drive to your yard before mowing. While gravel is suitable for rural areas, including farms, it can be less suitable for urban and high-traffic areas.
Paver Driveways – Stylish and Customizable
If you are looking at long-lasting and unique driveway styles consider a driveway made using driveway pavers. Homeowners (And businesses) looking for new driveway ideas can find the perfect paver in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and shakes to create a visually appealing surface. Paver driveways are also long-lasting and increase your property's curb appeal. Customization comes at a price though as the installation must be done by professionals to ensure their longevity and the high attention to detail on the pavers the upfront cost is worth the style and durability.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Driveway Type?
As noted at the beginning, there are many factors to consider when considering driveway replacement ideas. You’ll want an estimate of the square footage of the driveway area and the cost of removing the existing driveway (If there is one.) before deciding which types of driveway surfaces would suit your needs.
Knowing the square footage of your expected driveway is also key to drawing up your budget for materials. Considering the level of usage, high-traffic residential driveways require one of the more durable types of driveway surfaces, such as concrete or asphalt, which are easy to care for. The climate is also an important consideration, as asphalt and gravel can require additional upkeep based on temperature fluctuations and average rainfall.
You will also want one of the types of driveway surfaces that match your home’s exterior and landscape while meeting your budget.
Choosing the Perfect Driveway for Your Home’s Needs
Whether you’re drawn to the affordability of gravel or the elegance of pavers, the right choice will enhance your home’s curb appeal and functionality. Being aware of the key factors of budget, use, upkeep, and style can help you find the perfect
driveway.
At
Herrington’s Since 1986, we have specialized in helping homeowners in the Galivants Ferry area and Horry County find the perfect driveway styles for their needs. Contact us today to get started on your dream driveway!
