The Best Guide for the HA8 Area

Gravel

Gravel driveways provide a low-cost alternative for those wanting to build their driveway on a budget with the average cost being £50 per square meter.

Gravel is a mixture of rock, sand and clay, and although the process of replenishing gravel every few years can be bothersome, it can last a lifetime with continuous repairs. 

Since gravel is directly on the ground weeds and moss will be able to grow through the gravel so you will regularly need to top up on a strong weedkiller. However, this can be somewhat prevented by using landscape fabrics during installation, slowing the growth of weeds and grass.  

Despite gravel having a loose texture which can be messy, it can be moulded into different shapes. Gravel also comes in a wide array of colours and sizes and has been a popular option for houses in rural areas. Due to its diversity Homeowners can tailor gravel driveways to enhance their property's exterior and landscape. 

Gravel driveway installations do not require a lot of time. Unlike concrete driveways where concrete has to be poured by a certified professional, even a novice can successfully design and install a gravel driveway. 

Block Pavers Driveways

A common choice for homeowners is using concrete for their driveways. Although concrete is durable and relatively cheap for basic finishes, its colour will fade over time and once cracked is challenging to repair. 

If you want an alternative, then a block paver driveway is also a popular option as they provide various benefits over concrete. According to Tradesmen costs block paving can cost between £3,500 to £5,000.

One benefit is that blocks are not susceptible to being stained. Vehicles parked in your driveway will probably leak oil or other fluids which can easily mark concrete driveways. If a block was stained, however, it could easily be replaced without much cost. 

Repairs, in general, prove far less hassle for the same reason, as each brick is individually set in its place. Repairing cracked blocks wouldn't require you changing the entire driveway as you would only have to replace damaged sections. 

Homeowners who experience diverse weather conditions can also benefit as block paver driveways are a lot less slippery than concrete. Not only does this prevent slipping when you walk to your car, but it will also offer you better control when driving in and out of your driveway. 

The main drawback for paver driveways is the cost of installation as it is expensive compared to tarmac and gravel driveways. Not only does it require a great deal of expertise (DIY out the question), it also takes more time as each block has to be installed individually. 

Resin Driveways

A resin driveway contains two main components which are Aggregate and Resin. Aggregate is made of small to large gravels and stones which are then mixed with Polyurethane resin. 

As this option has increased in popularity throughout the years a common name for Resin bound driveways is 'stone carpets' as it has a premium finish and quality to them. 

Known for its visual aesthetics it's more of a decorative driveway than most giving an attractive curb appeal which compliments property exteriors like the garden. With a wide selection of textures and colours, unique combinations can provide original designs based on your preference. 

Not only is it versatile in design, but once installed, it doesn't contain any gaps, this smooth driveway prevents the growth of grass and weeds and is also water permeable. 

Generally, when opting for this driveway, there will be no need to acquire planning permission as it complies with Sustainable Urban Drainage System Standards (SUDS) relieving extra costs. 

As resin driveways are comparatively new in Britain, their drawback is the lack of official regulation standards when it comes to installations. 

Without these standards, the type of materials used can vary significantly, and poor labour practises can often result in an inadequate sub-base. If left unchecked and unrepaired a poorly done sub-base can delaminate due to the Resin not bonding. 

A Resin Driveway cost will vary depending on the size of the area and aggregate used. The typical cost for a project is around £40 per square metre and upwards. 

Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt or Tarmac is another cost-effective driveway alternative and is generally suitable for homeowners on a budget. On average, UK homeowners will spend £3,100 for an asphalt driveway to be installed. 

Among the most popular options on our list Asphalt is similar to what you would frequently see road workers use when laying on roads. It is made from aggregates and a binder to form a cohesive mixture.  

Asphalt driveways on average last anywhere from 12 to 20 years and various factors will determine its lifespan. 

Factors include installation quality, the climate, how often it's used and the degree of maintenance it has had over the years. Naturally, if you maintain your driveway regularly, it will serve its maximum lifespan. 

Whether asphalt driveways are aesthetically pleasing or not will be subjective and based on personal preference. Many homeowners like the charcoaled colour and road texture it has, giving a slick and proper finish. 

Maintenance costs are relatively low compared to most driveways. While repairs generally are minor and easy on the wallet like filling in cracks, driveway seals are more tedious and expensive.

Although asphalt driveways are hard and durable, it is recommended to use a seal to increase its longevity as cold weather tends to create cracks.

Hot weather can also have a negative impact as asphalt is flexible and can change under hot temperatures, this means if it is hit hard enough, a dent can show on the surface.