Why Paver Driveways Are The New Trend This Year

If you’re redoing your driveway, you’re probably wondering what’s the best material to use. Typically, concrete and asphalt are the obvious choices. But as more homeowners are becoming wiser about their home investments, they want to make sure that they spend money on a material that lasts, is easy to repair and maintain, and can be worked with different designs and patterns.

Asphalt and concrete can get boring with their monotonous color. These can sustain tough stains, which are sometimes impossible to clean. They can crack easily and aren’t as long-lasting as most people believe them to be. That’s why many homeowners opt for a more durable and cost-effective option, such as paver driveways.

And as it turns out, paver driveways have become quite the trend this year. Here are the reasons why:

Range of Choices

Paver driveways come in a slew of options, whether that involves the material, color or shape. Each of them has its own characteristics, and it’s easy to find one that matches your home’s look and your personal preferences.

• Natural Stone – Durability-wise, natural stone is always your best bet. They’ll surely last a very long time. However, you have to pay the price since these stones have to be quarried, transported, and installed before they make it to your driveway. Some of the top choices for natural stone pavers are limestone, granite, bluestone, and slate.

• Brick – Brick pavers give your driveway a natural and charming look. Although it comes in fewer options and isn’t as strong as natural stones, brick driveway pavers have their aesthetic appeal that reaches out to many homeowners.

• Concrete – Concrete pavers are typically less expensive than brick and natural stones, but they come in a wide variety of styles and designs. They can even mimic the look of brick and natural stones. However, you want to make sure that you get high-quality concrete pavers as it’s easy to find cheap ones that are prone to chipping and cracking.

Additionally, you can opt for various shapes and sizes of pavers. Standard shapes include squares and rectangles, but you’ll also find irregularly-shaped flagstones as well. Pavers also come in multiple sizes, but opt for ones that are at least three inches in thickness as these are most equipped to handle the weight of domestic vehicles.

Pavers are also flexible in that you can create various designs and patterns using different shapes and sizes. Common patterns include basketweave and herringbone, but you’ll also find other options with the help of your trusted contractor.

Permeability

Another reason why paver driveways are so popular is permeability. Since the driveway occupies a good portion of the residential lot, it is essential to use a permeable material to prevent water from flowing on the surface and going to the storm water drainage. Paver driveways are made of porous, permeable material that allows water to go around them and then get absorbed by the ground. Consequently, such pavers help feed vegetation and reduce the slipperiness of the driveway’s surface during the winter season.

Durability

As far as durability is concerned, it is wrong to think that concrete is the only durable material suitable for the driveway. Paver driveways last much longer than concrete with a lifespan of around 25 years. Pavers are also designed to handle the weight of the vehicle and adapt with the changing seasons. Whereas concrete tends to chip and crack under pressure, paver driveways prove themselves as the cost-effective option as they tend to last and remain sturdy for a very long time.

Low Maintenance

Proper installation of paver driveways prohibits the growth of weeds beneath them, making them much easier to maintain. Additionally, high-quality pavers are more resistant to de-icing salt in the winter. Pavers also do not require sealing, which gives the material a shiny look. Should a paver be damaged, it’s easier to take out and replace or turn the offending paver upside down and put it back into its location. Concrete and asphalt driveways are more meticulous to maintain, and there’s almost always a trace of visible repairs on them.

Conclusion

The secret to successfully installing paver driveways, apart from the quality of material, is the quality of the installation. You and your contractor need to create a solid base on which the pavers will be laid upon. It is also just as essential to pick a contractor that is skilled and experienced in working with paver driveways so you can get the best bang for your money.