Top 10 Pros And Cons Of Paver Driveways To Ponder

Improving your driveway is one of the few ways that you can add value to your home, without even having to take a step inside. A good looking, well constructed driveway is a mark of quality, and gives a great first impression.

The traditional look of a paver driveway is very popular – especially on older, more traditional homes. There are many advantages of this type of driveway, but it may not be perfect for your needs, and other alternatives, such as resin bound surfacing, may be more suitable.

It has been said that adding a new driveway to your home can improve its value by as much as 10%. On the average house price in the UK this can mean around £20,000.

This is quite a return on an investment of just a few thousand. Also, your home will stand out from the others on your street, making it more sought after in the eyes of prospective buyers; perfecting if you’re thinking of selling your home at a later date.

What Is A Paver Driveway?

A paver driveway is sometimes referred to as a block paved driveway, and encompasses many different materials. The blocks used can be bricks, stones, and other small paving options, or they could be larger paving stones depending on personal preference.

It is also possible to combine different colours and sizes to achieve a unique and interesting pattern. Traditionally, these types of pavers were used to create impressive driveways, but in more recent times, other alternatives have been created that offer more flexibility, and practicality.

Pavers can be made from traditional clay or cement, and are generally laid onto a compacted soil and stone base, with sharp sand as a final layer. Sand is then brushed into the joins, to add further stability.

Paver driveways are often laid by DIYers because they don’t often need specialist equipment. It is hard work to dig out the foundations, but then it is simply a case of adding the pavers to a layer of sharp sand. Many homeowners find it very satisfying to complete this DIY job

Advantages Of Paver Driveways

● Pavers are ideal if you want to create a driveway that is distinctive and interesting. The small shapes lend themselves to curves and slopes, and can be extended into patios, and even the steps into your home. They are an attractive finish and have a luxurious look to them.
● There is no curing period for pavers, unlike most other driveway materials, such as concrete and asphalt. Most paver driveways can be driven over as soon as they are finished – as long as the edging strips (usually concreted into place) have hardened.
● Pavers are less slippery than concrete driveways, depending on the material. This makes them a good option for sloped driveways, and areas where the drive may be prone to ice or frost.
● Paver driveways are often laid by DIYers because they don’t often need specialist equipment. It is hard work to dig out the foundations, but then it is simply a case of adding the pavers to a layer of sharp sand. Many homeowners find it very satisfying to complete this DIY job.
● The fact that pavers are smaller in size, these driveways are unlikely to crack. The load is spread evenly across the surface. This may not be the case with larger paving stones.

Your paver driveway needs to be maintained regularly by brushing sand into the joins, and it may need to be cleared of moss and algae to prevent the stones from becoming slippery

Disadvantages Of Paver Driveways

● A paver driveway will take much longer to lay than other driveway types – simply because of the manpower involved in individually laying each of the small stones. This makes the process more expensive too – paver driveways are the most expensive you can choose.
● Paver driveways are not good when it comes to the freeze and thaw cycle. The fact that they are not very permeable means that water sits on the surface and seeps into the spaces between the pavers. As this freezes, it expands and moves the stones. The ground beneath is also affected, and can even lead to erosion.
● The nooks and crannies of this type of driveway can mean that shovelling snow is almost impossible. The same can be said for clearing leaves and other debris. The cracks between the pavers will harbour all kinds of dirt that can leave the driveway looking less than pristine.
● You are likely to need to install additional drainage with a paver driveway, as the natural material is not porous enough to absorb water. It is legally expected that driveways over 5 metres square should have drainage added if it is not a permeable material. This can add to the cost, and you may even have to get planning permission.

Resin bound material is a great way to improve your home without spending a fortune. Compared to pavers, it offers a long lasting product that really is just as good looking and flexible

Resin Bound Surfacing: The Perfect Alternative To Paving

A resin bound driveway offers a credible alternative to a paver driveway as it is similar in terms of cost and has the attractiveness that you want. Resin bound simply means that an aggregate stone of your choice is mixed with resin and then applied to a prepared sub-base of concrete or tarmac.

The result is a driveway that is durable and long lasting, with a unique look that is particular to your requirements and tastes.

● A resin bound driveway can be laid in just one day (after the base is prepared) and can be driven on almost straight away. This is where the reduction in costs comes from, as labour is greatly reduced.
● Resin bound surfacing can be customised to any colour you wish, giving you the same flexibility in terms of style as the pavers offer.
● The look is more modern, but traditional shades, such as brick red, can be used to create a look that is suitable for even the most traditional of homes.
● There is very little maintenance involved for a resin bound driveway. It simply needs a jet wash from time to time to retain its enviable aesthetics.

Resin bound material is a great way to improve your home without spending a fortune. Compared to pavers, it offers a long lasting product that really is just as good looking and flexible. Take the first step to creating a driveway of distinction today, by calling 0800 1700 636, or by simply clicking the button below!