As one of the first aesthetic components visitors notice, the material your driveway is made from has a massive effect on the overall perception of your home. More than just visual, your material of choice also impacts your driveway’s longevity, functionality, and durability. Most of the time, homeowners may find themselves debating between gravel or asphalt. While we lean on the side of asphalt, everyone has their preferences. Which is why we have put together this breakdown of the pros and cons of both.
Pros of Gravel Driveways:
Gravel driveways are one of the most affordable options available, on top of being extremely easy to install. Especially if you have a long driveway! However, you will still need to replace the top-most level of the driveway every few years. Because gravel driveways also create a permeable surface, many consider gravel driveways as environmentally friendly.
Cons of Gravel Driveways:
One of the main challenges of gravel driveways, especially for those of us in Canada, is the removal of snow and ice. Oftentimes, using salt or sand on top of the snow and gravel can be the only solution to make the surface slip-free. Gravel driveways are also consistently being disturbed. Causing ruts, gaps, and holes in the surface. During the dryer months, gravel driveways can also be prone to dust and debris.
Pros of Asphalt Driveways:
Homeowners can appreciate the sleek appearance of an asphalt-paved driveway, especially when it’s at a lower cost than concrete or paver surfaces. Asphalt driveways are also extremely flexible in extreme climate conditions. The flat surface is much easier to remove snow and debris from compared to asphalt.. With proper maintenance, an asphalt driveway will last anywhere from 10 to 35 years. Like most elements of your home, the better you take care of it, the longer it will last.
Cons of Asphalt Driveways:
When it comes to the style of your asphalt driveway, you are pretty limited to black. Although this color tends to complement most homes, sometimes it may seem out of place. Asphalt driveways also require yearly cleaning and seal coating every two to five years. If your asphalt driveway happens to crack, repairs would need to be made right away.
Overall, asphalt provides a strong, flat, and clean surface for your driveway. While gravel provides a highly affordable, if not so sturdy, surface option. Ultimately the decision will come down to your budget, climate, and style preference. Weigh your options and rely on a trained expert to help you make an informed decision that’s best for your home. The team at Epic Paving is here to help! Don’t hesitate to contact us today at 416-701-1881 or info@epicpaving.ca.
