A driveway is a short-paved area leading from the public road to a house. It is not just practical paths for vehicles, but choosing the right driveway will increase the aesthetic appeal of your home, making a lasting impression. There are many types of driveways to construct, each has its own look and care needs. Before constructing driveways, there are many factors that should be considered, like budget and practicality. In this blog, we will explain the types of drives, their benefits and choosing the right material.
What are the types of driveways?
There are many types of driveways, each offering unique looks and benefits. Choosing the right driveway types can change the style and feel of your home.
Concrete Driveways
Concrete driveways are made from a mix of cement, sand, gravel, and water, poured over a papered base and cured to a strong finish. Its durability and low maintenance make it a practical choice for homeowners. It is a popular choice for its strength, resistance to extreme weather and ability to support heavy loads, making it a long-term solution. A concrete driveway with a drop kerbs is a durable, long-lasting option, typically lasting 30 to 50 years when properly installed and maintained.
Tarmac Driveways
It is made from crushed stone mixed with bitumen, creating a strong, flexible driveway. It is popular for its cost, longevity, and low maintenance and is a great choice, providing excellent water drainage and a modern look. However, it’s not always the most attractive of surfaces and may not suit your style of property.
Gravel Driveways
A gravel driveway is a cost-effective, permeable surface made from layers of crushed stone, sand, and clay. It provides good drainage and durability but requires regular maintenance to control weeds, rust, and displace stone. It is budget-friendly and easy to install, and also allows for customisation with different gravel types.
Resin Bound Driveways
This drive is made by mixing natural aggregate stone with a clear UV-stable resin binder and trowelling it onto a prepared base for a smooth and permeable finish. It is popular for its elegant look and environmental benefits. Its permeable surface helps with drainage and also requires low maintenance.
Block Paving
Block paving is a durable, decorative method of creating hard driveways using individual concrete, clay, or stone blocks arranged in interlocking patterns for aesthetic appeal and structural strength. With various colours and designs available, block paving can complement both modern and traditional homes.
What are the benefits of driveways?
Having access to a driveway at a property often has countless benefits for homeowners and potential buyers.
1. Increased property value
A driveway boosts home value primarily through enhanced curb appeal, creating a great first impression, especially in areas with limited street parking. Investing in a driveway resurface can completely transform this critical exterior feature, making your house more inviting.
2. Create an Additional Parking Space at Your Home
Driveways create extra parking space for your home, which ensures you always have an extra space for your vehicle close to your home. Furthermore, insurance companies recognise this, and as such, you may find your car insurance costs decreasing as a result.
3. Batter safety and traction
Driveways provide a good grip for vehicles and walkers even in wet conditions. The light colour of concrete reflects more light, improving visibility at night and making it easier to spot ice in winter. The solid surface reduces tripping problems, and this stability is important for families with young children who need a reliable footing.
Choosing The Right Material for Your Home
For making the drives that match your needs and preferences, the following should be considered:
Budget: Before making driveways, determine how much you are willing to invest in long-term maintenance.
Aesthetic: For ensuring home style and overall landscaping match the material you use.
Durability: Ensure the material can withstand your region’s weather conditions and traffic levels.
Choosing the right material for a Driveway Exeter can enhance your home’s kerb appeal and functionality, whether you are looking for versatility, environmental benefits, or the fact that each material can create a functional driveway when properly installed.
Conclusion
The right type of driveways can enhance both the look and function of your home, and each brings its own style and durability. Selecting the right style and keeping your house driveway well-maintained keeps it safe, clean, and long-lasting. Having a driveway in your home is a long-term investment that saves on parking costs and also increases the value of the house.