What material is best for your driveway?
When investing in a new driveway, there are plenty of decisions to be made. Without prior knowledge on paving materials and driveway build, this can be overwhelming and you might find yourself in need of assistance. The materials we build our Littlehampton driveways with are very varied, we offer our customers plenty of choice so their bespoke driveway can be perfect for their desired style. This means we have a deep understanding of many different types of driveway builds, so we’ve put together this guide to help you decide.
What’s the difference between different driveway materials?
Maybe you didn’t realise there were so many different options, or more likely you’re trying to figure out why the decision is even so important in the first place. Our Littlehampton driveway customers are usually curious about the pros and cons of each driveway material. Why wouldn’t you simply pick the cheapest driveway option? Of course, a lot of the decision is weighed on aesthetics. The driveway material that suits your home and your personal style is the main thing to go for. But we also have to consider the maintenance requirements of each material, as well as the drainage on your property and what is needed to keep it durable. Different materials do have different visuals, but importantly different properties and these will largely affect your final decision.
Reinforced Grass Paving Driveways
The classic honeycomb formation is used within these structures in either concrete or plastic. These structures allow grass to grow through it, allowing for a natural aesthetic for your driveway. They carry the weight of vehicles and people, meaning the grass will not constantly be destroyed. Grass paving is approved by SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems), which gives extra peace of mind for your property.
When choosing reinforced grass paving, the main drawback to consider is the maintenance. Just like grass in your back garden, a grass driveway means regular watering, feeding and mowing to keep it looking presentable. They are also one of the least durable options, a reinforced grass paving driveway will not last as long as the average solid surface driveway.
Gravel Driveways
Cost-friendly and time effective, gravel is a popular option for driveways in Littlehampton and the surrounding areas. With a large selection of colours and blends, gravel is a great looking option to suit a variety of different properties and visuals. When self-binding gravel is used, it is another SuDS-compliant material option for your driveway, meaning you can be assured that your driveway has adequate drainage.
Gravel driveways need attention to detail when being installed. Different layers of stones must be rolled out in stages and then edging placed. The durability of the driveway relies on the foundations and the hardcore beneath.
Stone Paver Driveways
A stone paver driveway is a very long-lasting, durable option for your driveway. They are visually appealing, available in a variety of colours and styles. The clean appearance will stand the test of time, and they are relatively easy to maintain. Stone paver driveways need to be re-sealed every few years to protect them, but other than that are relatively easy to keep.
Stone paving materials are, however, one of the more expensive materials to work with when installing your driveway. Also the solidity of the material calls for more care to be taken ensuring your drainage solutions are up to standard. At The Landscape Fixers, our partnership with The Drain Fixers means we are able to offer a free complete CCTV drainage survey with all new driveways, which solves this problem.
Resin Bound Driveways
One of the most popular materials and finishes for Littlehampton driveways are resin bound driveways. This is another material that offers a wide range of colours to suit the individual’s taste. Relatively quick to install, depending on your drainage requirements resin bound driveways offer both permeable and impermeable solutions. These are low maintenance options with maximum, long lasting results.
Resin bound driveways are generally more expensive than some other driveway solutions, but it’s important to consider longevity and maintenance in your investment.
Permeable Tarmac Driveways
Tarmac driveways are known to be an affordable and durable material option. They are also a low-maintenance option when paired with a high quality sealant to finish. The drawback to having a permeable tarmac driveway is the visual aesthetic – there are less options to choose from than other materials and so there is no guarantee tarmac will suit the style of your property.
Permeable Concrete Driveway
Concrete is a very durable and long-lasting option for your Littlehampton driveway. Concrete is a hard-wearing material and you can expect a properly installed and designed permeable concrete driveway to last over twenty years. The material offers a variety of colours and can even prove customisable in the future, you can repaint as and when wanted!
Concrete unfortunately can get discoloured over time. This problem worsens if the concrete comes into contact with oil. Another drawback is that concrete can potentially crack, but this is only an issue when it has been laid poorly.
Permeable Block Paving Driveways
Another very popular option for driveways in Littlehampton and the surrounding areas. Permeable block paver driveways look fantastic and are a low-maintenance option. The colour and style options offered are very varied, meaning you can be sure to find an option that suits your property’s style. The durability and longevity of block paving driveways means they are an investment set to last.
The drawbacks to a block paving driveway are the cost of the materials and the time needed to install. Generally, they are a more pricey option for driveways, but it’s worth weighing this investment up against the maintenance and durability levels.
Looking for Littlehampton driveway installation or renovation? At The Landscape Fixers, we have over 18 years of experience in block paving and other landscaping services, so we are able to offer our customers expert advice as well as a no obligation quote. If, after reading this article, you’re still scratching your head deciding which driveway material to go for, contact us today! Our friendly team will be happy to help you out.