Your driveway is the gateway to your home. It is one of the first things that people see when they come to your house, and it is also an area where your kids may play basketball, ride their bikes, or chat with friends. In other words, it is more than just a place where you park your car.
Because of its importance, you want your driveway to look and be its best. You want to make sure that it is made of materials that will allow you to have fun activities outside while also battle through changes in weather, cars driving back and forth over the surface, and whatever else the world may bring. This is why if you are looking for the right finish for your driveway, here are some tips to help you to decide.
Types of Materials
It starts by looking at the different types of materials that you can use for your driveway. This includes concrete, asphalt, interlocking pavers, tar and chip, and exposed aggregate. Each has their benefits.
Concrete
There are a couple of different types of concrete that can be used, but the most common type is poured. This is the preferred option for many, as it is a low maintenance option and can handle extreme changes in weather, including very hot summers and very cold winters. This is more expensive than some other options, but it is one that is meant to last for decades.
Asphalt
Asphalt is a very popular option because it, too, is durable. While not having the same longevity as concrete, it is also easier to repair asphalt should you have cracks or blemishes that need to be repaired.
Interlocking Pavers
This is a great look. These pavers are usually made with cement or concrete and are shaped so that they interlocked with one another. This makes them easy to install, meaning you may not even have to hire an expert to do the job for you. While they look great, the one problem with this choice is that the pavers will shift, causing cracks or gaps to occur. However, if you want a great look, this is the choice as you can choose different patterns and colours and they are easy to clean.
Tar and Chip
This is an affordable alternative for those who would like to use asphalt. It does not look as good and is not as smooth as asphalt but, using a gravel foundation, it is easy to install and is quite durable. Plus, like asphalt, should cracks and blemishes occur, it is easy to repair.
Exposed Aggregate
This is one of the hottest trends in new driveways. The exposed aggregate offers many different features, including changes in colours, sizes, and shades, because it blends rocks and gravel while sealing each of these materials so that they are non-slip. This gives a beautiful look should use stones or pebbles.
Make the Right Choice
Of course, getting outstanding driveway is more than just choosing the right material or look. You also want to hire the right professionals to do the job so that your driveway fits in well with the current landscape and design of your property. This matters a great deal should you be resurfacing your driveway all the way into your garage or carport.