What is the Best Driveway Material to Use?
There are many types of materials to consider when driveway resurfacing. You may have an image or design in mind, or you may have a budget to stick to. When discussing your preferred materials with your driveway resurfacing contractors, these are two of many determining factors.
How to Decide Which Material to Use for Your Driveway
The most common type of driveway material in the UK is tarmac, but it can be expensive and may not have the longevity of other alternatives. Concrete has become more popular in recent years, offering a more affordable price but can crack over time. There are also other options such as gravel and block paving to consider, all with their own advantages and disadvantages.
What to Consider When Choosing a Driveway Material
You may want to consider your property’s location as well as your budget and design expectations when choosing the right material for driveway resurfacing, as some materials are better suited to certain environments. You will also need to consider issues such as climate and weather, durability, and maintenance requirements.
Driveway Materials
There are a significant number of different driveway materials to choose between when looking at drive resurfacing. Let’s consider them each in turn, so you better understand your options for resurfacing your drive.
Tarmac driveways
Tarmac driveways are popular for a reason. They are a durable option for domestic properties and have a long lifespan. They are considered one of the most cost-effective alternatives out there and are quick to lay and relatively easy to maintain. Tarmac is also water-impermeable and skid resistance, protecting drivers from falling and skidding when snow and ice set in.
The disadvantage of tarmac as a driveway material is it can have quite an industrial feel for residential homes in some instances. It can also wear quickly if you regularly need to turn your vehicle’s wheels without movement, known as “still-turning”.
Concrete driveways
Concrete is second in popularity for UK driveways and has a durable, low-maintenance surface that many property owners like. Concrete is particularly quick to install for your driveway resurfacing contractors. Homeowners also like the customisable nature of this material. While concrete is known for its smooth, grey slab appearance, there are actually many more intricate and ornate options available. You could add in a pattern or add a personalised element such as a family emblem or initials.
The main disadvantages of concrete are staining over long periods of time if they driveway is exposed to chemicals, particularly if your vehicle develops an oil or fuel leak. Cracking is usually only a concern when the concrete is poorly laid.
Resin bound driveways
Resin-bound driveways combine aggregate stones and resin, creating a unique look as well as other benefits. This material is popular due to its stylish aesthetic and durability, with resistance to both frost and weeds. This kind of driveway is available in a range of different colours to coordinate with your home’s brickwork and exterior appearance.
Resin bound driveways may not be the best choice for smaller properties where still-turning is necessary. Just like tarmac, it can be damaged quickly if you regularly turn your wheels without moving.
Block paving driveways
Block paving driveways are considered more environmentally friendly due to their porous surface. Block paving is a unique type of paving that is designed to withstand the pressure and weight of cars and vehicle traffic without damage. Block paving is a sustainable choice and should have a lifespan of more than ten years. However, if it does need repairing, it is easy to lift a single damaged block and replace it with a matching replacement.
The main disadvantage of block paving is the cost. The process of cutting bricks to size for a perfect fit is more technical and so comes at a higher price, and it can take a little longer too.
Tar and chip driveways
Tar and chip is an alternative to tarmac and provides a little more stability than a simple gravel driveway. Unlike gravel drives, tar and chip driveways combine gravel with hot liquid asphalt, sealing it in place. There is an extensive range of gravel options so that you can create a personalised look for your drive. This material is very low maintenance, and resurfacing is only required every ten years or so.
This ten-year longevity is one of the main disadvantages of opting for tar and chip. Concrete, as an alternative, can last 40 or 50 years, so it is understandable that property owners may be dissatisfied with the shorter lifespan.
Gravel driveways
Gravel driveways are the quickest to lay and most cost-effective option out there. They can be designed to suit your property’s needs, with options for light to heavy traffic use. It is also possible to source a range of gravel types, colours and sizes to complement your property’s appearance. Gravel benefits from great drainage and no risk of damage due to weather or water. Gravel drives are also long-lasting, and you do not have the chance of costs due to cracks or repairs. Gravel is the natural choice for rural properties as the uneven surface created by the natural curve of the land, tree roots, and other natural features can all be easily accounted for.
The disadvantages of opting for gravel are mainly due to its moveable nature. It can quickly develop potholes, may wash away over time, and it is possible for weeds to grow through it. This means gravel can be a more high-maintenance option, but it can be your best choice depending on your surroundings and budget.
Comparing Driveway Materials
The right driveway materials for your property rely on your personal taste and practical considerations. Some environments are better suited to gravel than concrete, and you may want a particular aesthetic or style for your driveway, which means only one type of material is a good fit. Take time to explore the benefits of the different materials available before making a final decision, and you can always discuss your options with our team for more guidance.
Get Driveway Material Advice and Quotes from Axtell Surfacing
Axtell Surfacing has over 20 years of experience laying and repairing driveways across Surrey and West Sussex. Contact our professional team today to request a quote or get advice on the best driveway material for your property.