When paving your driveway, your chosen material will determine how well it withstands daily use and seasonal weather conditions. As a high-traffic area and the first impression of your home, your driveway should visually complement your exterior while remaining structurally sound for many years. Certain driveway paving materials simply outperform others in terms of durability. Read on to learn which options offer the most strength, stability and long-lasting beauty for your driveway.
Concrete
Concrete is a perennial favorite for paving driveways thanks to its cost-effectiveness and longevity. Concrete’s strength for driveway paving comes from its composition of stone aggregate bound with water and cement.
Professional installation is recommended to allow adequate drying time of at least 7 days. Properly poured and cured concrete gains compressive strength over time, resisting cracks. Concrete last 15-30 years with proper sealing and can be stained or textured for visual interest.
Asphalt
Asphalt is composed of aggregate stone mixed with petroleum-based binder and offers a cost-effective, low maintenance paving solution. Asphalt’s flexibility handles stress and movement better than concrete, minimizing cracking and holes. Fading black to grey over time, asphalt has a more modest 10-15 year lifespan. However, surfaces can be renewed with sealcoating. Asphalt is quick to install and suitable for basic driveways on a budget.
Brick Pavers
For classic beauty with modern strength, brick pavers have outstanding durability. Clay brick resists wear in high traffic areas. Interlocking paver patterns allow water drainage between bricks, minimizing freeze damage. Installed on a sand or gravel base, brick pavers only require replacement if damaged. Well-maintained brick driveways will last 30-50 years. Combining shapes and colors creates custom designs.
Natural Stone
From elegant granite to locally quarried flagstone, natural stone pavers lend organic texture and upscale appeal. Stone’s high compression and flexural strength withstand decades of use without cracking or crumbling. Properly sealed, natural stone driveways last 50-100 years. Irregular shapes and earthy hues provide rustic yet refined style. Due to high cost, stone is often mixed with concrete.
Contact Epic Paving Today
When assessing driveway paving materials, prioritize longevity to minimize replacement costs down the road. While upfront pricing plays a role, cheaper options usually equate to a shorter lifespan.
Investing in high-quality, professionally installed pavers made of concrete, brick, stone or cobble provides superior durability, resulting in a driveway that will stand the test of time. Choose your long-lasting paver style based on your budget, aesthetic tastes, and home architecture.
Looking for a beautiful new driveway? Contact the paving professionals at Epic Paving today! With years of experience, we are experts in creating stunning concrete, asphalt, pavers, and more for residential and commercial properties.
Our talented team will listen to your vision and work diligently to bring it to life. We use only the highest quality materials to ensure your driveway stands the test of time through any weather conditions. Trust us to remove and replace your existing driveway or pave a brand new one from start to finish.
Call Epic Paving now for a consultation and estimate. We can’t wait to give your home the upgraded curb appeal it deserves with a fresh, durable driveway designed just for you. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed when you choose Epic Paving.
