When deciding on a driveway for your home, durability, and longevity are of utmost importance. With a vast selection of options available, selecting the most long-lasting driveway material can be bewildering. In this article, we will dig into six of the highest quality, time-resistant driveways. You’ll become familiar with the advantages and disadvantages of each option, as well as considerations before investing in one of them. Eventually, you’ll comprehend which type of driveway is the most suitable for your home, offering support throughout time.
6 of the Best and long-lasting Driveways
Here are some of the most long-lasting driveways that can be used everywhere:
Asphalt: Traditional, Simple, and Practical
When it comes to picking the right material for driveways, asphalt stands out for many reasons. Not only does asphalt have a relatively low cost per square foot and require minimal maintenance, it is highly permeable when installed correctly with the right base and sub-base; this helps ensure that rainwater passes through the asphalt, meaning no risk of flooding or puddling.
Plus, asphalt driveways are almost instantly usable once laid down. Additionally, being resistant to all kinds of weather damage, these driveways are expected to last for up to 20 years if cared for properly. Modified asphalt like sulfonated asphalt can last even longer and can be one of the best and long-lasting driveways in this list.
Gravel: Cheap and Cost-Effective
Gravel driveways present an alluring, low-maintenance option with the potential to last for decades, akin to the longevity of asphalt paving. Moreover, it is highly cost-effective to install a gravel driveway that carries plenty of aesthetic appeal, especially when opting for specific color or blend.
Possibly even more enticing is that gravel driveways boast high permeability when mixed and blended with sulfonated asphalt allowing for easier rainwater runoff.
Despite its positives, certain drawbacks with gravel driveways exist, chiefly that it may cause tire marking in the long run and the potential for airborne stones after years of usage.
Concrete: Durable and Solid
Concrete driveways are known for being the ‘tried-and-tested’ option for many homes, and they tend to last very long too. The only thing one needs to take into consideration when it comes to a concrete driveway is the need to keep it clean and to clean up any spills and stains quickly to prevent any long-term damage.
Though concrete driveways rarely come out as permeable by design, you can still discuss drainage and SUDS-compliant options- Sustainable Urban Drainage System- with the installer before laying one down. Fortunately, with the right team taking care of it, maintaining a concrete driveway is simple and hassle-free.
Tarmac: Durability and Low Maintenance
Residential tarmac driveways are extremely attractive to many homeowners thanks to their cost effectiveness in comparison to other surfaces available. While their aesthetic may not meet the expectations of all, they are incredibly resilient and remain steadfast against the ever-fluctuating weather patterns.
Low maintenance and long lifespan aside, tarmac is an oft-forgotten material when it comes to driving surfaces. The tendency for it to become sticky and unattractive adds an extra layer of hesitation for many individuals.
Brick Pavers: Popular and Appealing
The brick driveway is another long-lasting driveway that is a surefire way to turn your property into a beautiful and long-lasting haven. With careful work done on a solid base and sub-base, years of comfort, performance and visual sparkle will be yours! Proper sealers are a must-have for a fully-installed driveway because they protect against the threats of rain and frost.
Brick installations tend to last up to twenty-five years if well taken care of. Installing this driveway is pricier than asphalt paving or concrete, and although you’ll reap the benefits of amazing aesthetics, frozen water might require a few paver replacements if cracks form. With a brick driveway, you get the perfect harmony of durability and great looks.
Resin: Stylish & Modern
One of the long-lasting driveways is a resin driveway which tends to be a highly attractive and temperature-resistant addition to any landscape. If installed correctly to SUDS compliance, these surfaces can also be extremely permeable and porous. In addition, a resin-coated surface is typically weed-resistant and easy to care for, yet caution must be taken when power-washing to avoid any potential damage.
Although a resin driveway requires more of an initial investment than the likes of gravel and concrete, the resulting look will reflect the extra cost, and you won’t need to ask for planning permission.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Driveway
When selecting a long-lasting driveway, various factors must be considered; from the maintenance involved, to the aesthetics, and the value for money.
Concrete driveways are often seen as the easiest to maintain, but they may not ultimately fit in with the aesthetic of a property or the local area. Non-traditional materials like glass driveways require more upkeep, and as such, may be more costly in the long term.
It is worth considering the convenience of potential buyers. Ask yourself; is an asphalt paving driveway easily maintainable? Will a glass or resin driveway attract potential buyers? Before investing in a driveway, ensure that it meets both your expectations and those of your future buyers. Value is added to a home, but only if the driveway is completed correctly.
Conclusion
When it comes to driveways, choosing the right surface requires plenty of consideration. Factors such as lifespan, longevity, visuals, labor intensity, install time and traction are all important.
According to the specialist’s experience, sulfonated asphalt, concrete, and brick paving typically produces the best results in the long term, therefore, they’re considered the most long-lasting driveways available. With high-quality and proper maintenance, you can expect decades of durability and little repair or replacement over the years.