A chipped, cracked or pitted driveway detracts from the overall beauty of your home and carves a chunk out of its resale value. But repaving options vary greatly in terms of looks, longevity and cost.
Professionals say the top driveway paving materials are gravel, asphalt, concrete and pavers/brick. Homeowners need to consider cost, upkeep and regional weather before choosing a material. Consult a paving professional on what your best options are.
Gravel or Crushed Stone
The least expensive options, ranging from $1,200 to $1,500 on average, are gravel or crushed stone driveways. These offer some choice in color and require a little maintenance. While they can last over 100 years with proper maintenance, they are subject to crumbling and add little to property value.
Asphalt
At an average cost of $2 to $4 per square foot, an asphalt driveway, which is generally poured over a gravel base, can last as long as 15 to 20 years with periodic resealing. While there’s no guarantee against weather-related cracking, it’s a good choice at a reasonable price if you’re prepared for regular maintenance.
Concrete
A concrete driveway—which can cost as much as $5 to $8 per square foot if you want it stamped, colored or textured—has a smooth, sleek look and will likely last for 40 years with minimal maintenance. In fact, stamped concrete can mimic the look of pavers at a far lower cost. Many contractors advise laying concrete in large, square slabs to reduce the frequency of cracking, but it’s the go-to for appearance and value.
Pavers or Brick
Pavers (which can be made to look like brick or traditional clay), or full brick driveways, are the upscale choice for creating more stately-looking properties. Considerably more expensive, at $6 to $16 per square foot, high-end clay pavers and reclaimed bricks can last for up to 30 years. (Brick may last for 100 years, as an occasional broken brick is easy to replace.)
These materials can also be mixed to create a unique look, such as a concrete driveway with a brick border.
Source: HomeAdvisor
