Choosing the right material for your driveway can be a challenge when each one seems to offer great benefits. Paver driveways are beautiful and can dramatically enhance curb appeal. Asphalt driveways are extremely durable and low maintenance. Which type of driveway right for your home? Let’s explore the pros and cons.
Paver driveways
Paver driveways are available in a wide range of materials including brick and natural stone. Compared to asphalt, they offer greater customization for your home’s exterior, allowing you to match the design of your driveway to your house’s architecture.
As for maintenance, it can be easier to repair a paver driveway because each stone is laid individually. A repair person can simply replace a single piece if one breaks. The biggest drawback is the cost. Paver driveways typically have a higher price point than asphalt, so homeowners can expect to spend more for installation.
If your budget is your priority, then you may want to consider a less expensive option. However, if you’re more interested in the beauty of your driveway and its impact on your home’s property value, brick or stonework could be an excellent choice.
Asphalt driveways
Asphalt is an extremely durable material made from a combination of crushed stones, called aggregates, and a sticky, black substance called bitumen. Asphalt driveways are sensible, practical and long-lasting with proper maintenance. They are more affordable up-front, but they do need more routine care — such as seal coating — than paver driveways.
Homeowners looking for the most straightforward, budget-friendly option will likely find an asphalt driveway to be the better option.
Cost considerations
Paver driveways do cost more to install, but they can repay you in higher property value and lower maintenance. Although asphalt is generally low maintenance as well, it still costs more over its lifetime due to the need for sealing and crack repairs.
To make your final decision, compare the initial cost of materials and labor versus the long-term cost of maintenance. If you intend to sell your home someday, consider which driveway design may have the most positive impact on potential buyers.
Which material is more durable?
Paver driveways are more resistant to cold weather because of the individual pieces that make up their design. This makes them ideal in parts of the country that have frigid winters and sudden temperature drops. Pavers can also be good at handling heavy loads due to their modular structure.
Asphalt is still a tried-and-true option, though it has limitations in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations. While it’s better for areas with lighter traffic, but it can still support heavy weight.
Overall, the best thing to do is speak with a professional who can provide personalized recommendations based on your budget and goals for your driveway. Both paver and asphalt driveways can enhance your property. Weighing factors like cost and maintenance will make it easier for you to choose the right one for your home.
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