Your driveway is usually one of the first things people see when they visit your property. You want it to look good and last well!
The good news is there are great driveway options for budgets big and small.
Concrete is a popular choice for driveways and paths. It is durable and strong. It also gives you the most finishing options to choose from.
Backyard Projects would love to talk to you about your requirements for a concrete path or driveway.
You can't beat a concrete driveway for durability. An exposed aggregate finish adds a touch of class.
Smooth and durable, asphalt gives a cost-effective sleek black finish to your path or driveway.
Asphalt is made from bitumen (which is derived from crude oil) mixed with a fine gravel. This binds together to form a solid black finish. Asphalt is sometimes also referred to as black-top or tarmac.
For low-traffic areas like pathways, a thinner layer of asphalt can be used. For driveways where vehicles turn often or heavier vehicles are parked, a thicker layer of asphalt will be required.
To ensure a quality job that will last a long time, it is important to employ a professional to install your asphalt driveway.
If cracks develop, they should be sealed with a hot-pour rubberised sealer. This should be done in autumn when it is cool and cracks will be at their widest. Sealing cracks helps prevent further damage. For a DIY asphalt crack repair option you can use something like Gripset Betta Asphalt Crack Filler available at Bunnings. Ensure you clean out the crack well before applying the repair product.
If weeds start to appear in cracks, they should be removed as quickly as possible. Apply some weed-killer, clean the crack and fill it as described above.
Shingle (or gravel) driveways give you a natural feel at a low cost. They have a laid-back, rustic charm you just don't get with concrete and asphalt.
A simple shingle driveway is a cost-effective entry-level option. You have a choice of shingle – whether it's round pebbles, or crushed gravel and if you want coloured stones or not. It does require more maintenance than other options.
Take a shingle driveway to the next level with Natural Paving. A plastic honeycomb-shaped structure sits below the surface of your driveway to hold the gravel in place. A built-in water permeable weed mat, prevents weeds from poking through. You can have the natural look of a shingle driveway without its drawbacks!
Paving has been around a long time – it's what the Romans used to build their roads back in the day. This premium option costs a bit more, but will give you a very attractive and long-lasting driveway. Whether you go for red-clay brick paving or the old-world charm of cobblestone pavers, you'll add a touch of class to your property.
Cobblestones are made of pieces of hard black granite or basalt which are very rugged and hard wearing. They create beautiful driveways that evoke the look of streets in Victorian England. They also work well for border decoration. If you love the aesthetic of cobblestones but don't have the budget, there is a popular alternative – cheaper, cobblestone lookalike concrete pavers.
Clay brick pavers are a bit more fragile than concrete pavers or cobblestones, but when well looked after can last a long time. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Paved driveways are the most expensive option, but they really add a touch of class to your property.
Which type of driveway should I choose?
With so many options, you may be wondering how to decide which one to choose. Each have their merits, so we've prepared a table to help you compare the different options.
With so many options, you may be wondering how to decide which one to choose. Each have their merits, so we've prepared a table to summarise the different options.