Any homeowner planning to pave their driveway knows just how expensive things can get. Driveway paving certainly isn’t something to be taken lightly. It is a long, tedious process that can end up costing a significant amount, which is why it’s important to plan for it ahead of time.
Without appropriate planning, you might just end up racking up a larger bill than what you can afford. This can take a toll on your personal budget and force you to compromise your recreational spending.
Luckily, though, there are some paving material options that are significantly lighter on the wallet than others. Below, we will discuss the different types of paving materials and shed light on some affordable options.
Aggregate Driveways
Better yet known as gravel, aggregate is one of the most affordable paving options you can employ for your driveway renovation. Gravel driveways can cost you anywhere between $0.50 and $5 per square foot, depending on which type of gravel you’ve chosen, how many layers your driveway requires, and drainage, amongst other factors.
In addition to being remarkably affordable, gravel driveways have a commendable lifespan. You can expect them to last for an indefinite period of time as long as they receive a resurfacing treatment whenever required. The material is extremely durable and easy to look after.
The overall maintenance demands for an aggregate or gravel driveway is low to moderate. This means that a gravel-paved driveway will not cost you much to maintain. There isn’t much this type of driveway requires apart from the occasional resurfacing touch-up, as mentioned previously.
However, gravel is prone to erosion, which is why it is wise to set up a drainage system if your driveway is steep. A straightforward French drain is enough and won’t cost too much to install.
If you’re in a rush to get the job over and done with, aggregate paving is the perfect choice for you. Gravel driveways take less than a day to pave and dry, leaving you with excellent results in no time!
Asphalt Driveways
Asphalt is another excellent option if you’re aiming for affordability. You can expect to pay between $4 and $8 per square foot for this kind of paving.
However, asphalt is a demanding material. Its lifespan is below 20 years, and it requires moderate to high maintenance. But, if you’re looking for a paving material that will give your driveway some brilliant aesthetic appeal, asphalt is the way to go.
Gravel driveways may last longer, but they simply cannot compete with asphalt when it comes to beauty and aesthetics. Also, asphalt driveways are easier to maintain during harsh winters as compared to gravel ones. Also, unlike gravel driveways, asphalt will not become wet and sloppy during the rain, making it a more practical choice than gravel.
Asphalt and aggregate driveways are the most common options for those who want to pave their driveway on a budget. Each material has its own set of pros and cons, but one thing’s for sure: neither material will take a heavy toll on your wallet.
Interested in paving your driveway? We have professional pavers who are experienced in building different types of drives. Call us now on 0852139591 or email us to request a quote!
