When planning to re-pave your driveway, there are several factors to consider. Find a contractor like Driveway Paving Summerville SC with experience and a good reputation in the community.
Pavers are an attractive and durable alternative to traditional gravel. They can be installed in various styles, including cobblestones and brick. They also provide an eco-friendly option, as their permeability allows water to pass through and percolate back into the groundwater supply.
Durability is one of the most important considerations when choosing driveway paving materials. The material you choose must hold up to the traffic you expect on your driveway. It should also be able to withstand the weather conditions in your area. In addition, low-maintenance must save you time and money in the long run.
There are many different types of durable paving materials to consider, including asphalt, concrete, cobblestone, and brick pavers. Each type has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Some materials are not suitable for colder climates, as they may crack during freeze and thaw cycles. Others are unsuitable for parking lots, as they make snow removal difficult and dangerous. However, there are some paving materials that can be used in both climates and for all purposes.
Concrete is a popular choice for driveways, as it can withstand high traffic loads and is inexpensive to install. However, it is prone to cracking and requires frequent repair. This is because of shrinkage as the concrete dries and hardens. In order to minimize the risk of cracking, it is advisable to use a low-slump mix.
Another common choice for a driveway is asphalt, which can withstand heavy traffic and lasts up to 20 years. It is easy to repair and costs less than concrete, but it must be sealed every 3 to 5 years to prevent premature deterioration.
A brick paver driveway has a lifespan of around 25 years and is an excellent choice for those looking for a timeless, classic look. It is a good choice for those living in moderate climates, as it can handle both hot and cold temperatures. Brick pavers can be damaged by heavy vehicles, so it is a good idea to use them in conjunction with a gravel base.
If you are unsure which paving material is best for your needs, talk to the experts at EverReady Paving and Seal Coating. Our team will help you select the right material for your project and provide you with a competitive estimate. We will also notify residents and businesses whose driveways or sidewalks will be affected by our construction work in advance by sending them an informational letter. We will also notify them of the start and end dates for the construction work.
Style
The style of your driveway can have a big impact on the look of your whole landscape. It can create a transition between your house and the rest of the yard or it can be the focal point that draws guests into your driveway. Choosing pavers that complement your home will help you achieve the desired style. You can also use different textures to make the driveway more interesting.
Paver driveways add a sophisticated, elegant look to any style of home. They are also very durable, especially if installed properly. The interlocking design ensures that the pavers won’t shift, which can happen with concrete slabs unless they’re well-built.
For homeowners who want to incorporate vegetation in their driveway, TRUEGRID’s permeable paving system offers an innovative solution. The permeable paving system utilizes grass-jointed pavers to create a highly sustainable and beautiful surface for your vehicle. The permeable pavement system is designed to prevent erosion and allow rainwater to drain into the soil underneath. The paving system can be customized to include any type of plant, including trees, shrubbery, or flowers, which can be planted directly into the driveway.
You can also customize the color of your driveway with pavers that match or compliment the colors of other features on your property. This will tie the different elements together for a cohesive look and make your driveway stand out.
If you’re looking for a modern style, consider using pavers that mimic the appearance of brick. Unilock’s Mattoni paver, for example, can be used in a variety of herringbone or running bond laying patterns and comes in three special order colors.
Another option for a contemporary style is Senzo by Unilock. These pavers have a granite appearance and are available in several shades, including French Grey, Tuscany, and Winter Marvel. You can even choose a two-color on-site blend to create a custom hue.
If you want a more traditional style, opt for a cobblestone or brick driveway. These materials are also very durable and can withstand high traffic. They’re also easier to maintain than a grass driveway, which can become muddy and beaten down by cars.
Drainage
Drainage is one of the biggest issues that can arise from driveway paving. Rainwater can cause damage to the subbase layer underneath the surface of a concrete or asphalt driveway, which in turn leads to cracks and uneven surfaces. When there is no proper drainage system in place, it can also lead to standing water and humidity on your property. This can damage plants and create health hazards for your family. Luckily, there are many ways to prevent drainage problems.
A driveway should be built on a slight gradient to ensure that rainwater can flow away from it rather than pooling. This helps to prevent erosion and protects the road surface from damage. It is important to use a metal grate over the trench drain to prevent debris from clogging it. You can also install smaller site drains in those areas of your driveway where water tends to collect.
It is recommended that you hire a contracting company that specializes in both driveway care and drainage installation. This will reduce the stress involved with resolving drainage issues, and it will increase the likelihood of success. A professional will know how to best solve your drainage problems and will be able to recommend the most effective solutions for your driveway.
Asphalt is not as permeable as concrete, and it needs a drainage system to ensure that rainwater doesn’t build up and damage the pavement. A simple way to achieve this is by laying down a swale on the side of the driveway. This will allow the water to flow into the swale and be conducted downhill.
You can also add a perforated drain pipe to your driveway. This will allow the rainwater to escape into the garden, where it can be dispersed naturally without causing flooding or polluting nearby water sources. A swale is a good option for people who live in areas that experience heavy rainfall.
In addition to these options, you can also have a drainage channel installed under the driveway. These have a narrow opening and can be fitted into the shape of your driveway, making them less disruptive than other options.
Cost
When considering the cost of paving your driveway, consider not only the price of the materials but also the cost of installation. Some paving options are more labor intensive than others; for example, heated driveways require expert installation that can drive up the price. Periodic maintenance can also increase the overall costs of a driveway, especially when using gravel; regular raking and new gravel filling add up over time.
Concrete has a long lifespan and requires relatively low maintenance, but it is expensive to install. It is a good choice for cold climates, where its durability is a benefit. Concrete also provides excellent traction, and it responds well to chemical and natural ice melt.
Asphalt is less expensive to install than concrete, but it isn’t as durable in hot or cold weather. It also needs to be sealed every 3 to 5 years. Asphalt can be sprayed or rolled onto your driveway, and it can also be stamped or colored to add design elements.
Chip sealed or tar and chip driveways are an affordable alternative to paved concrete, but they don’t look as nice. They have a gravel base, and then hot tar is poured over the top. Stones are then pressed into the tar, and it is rolled for smoothness.
A paver driveway is more expensive than a concrete or asphalt one, but it’s extremely durable and beautiful. It’s available in a wide range of colors, sizes and textures that can be used to create unique designs. It’s important to choose a reputable contractor, because the quality of a paver driveway will affect how long it lasts.
In the long run, it’s best to use a material that can stand up to heavy loads and extreme temperatures. For those with a tight budget, pavers are an excellent choice for their durability and style. A reputable contractor will also take the time to ensure your driveway is well-designed and drains properly. It’s also a good idea to ask friends and neighbors about the contractors they have used. They can offer valuable insights about which companies to work with and which ones to avoid.
