Options for Driveway Paving

When it comes to paving a driveway, the opportunities are seemingly endless. The final price of paving a driveway will be determined by the paving option that is chosen, the materials that are used and the various additional features that are chosen, such as radiant underground heating.

Gravel Options

If you have a long, winding driveway, paving your driveway with gravel or loose stone is the most economical option for you. Homeowners can select various sizes and colors of loose stones. Gravel paving tends to shift with time, so this type of paving requires routine maintenance. In some cases, depending on the spacing between the gravel stones, weeds and plants can begin to grow. It is best to grade and clear your driveway thoroughly prior to spreading gravel.

Tar Paving

Tar paving is a mid-range option in driveway paving. Tar offers the benefits of a solid-surface driveway, while maintaining an aspect of affordability for homeowners. When paving a driveway with tar, gravel is first spread over the surface of the driveway. The gravel is then topped with tar and then shaped and smoothed as needed.

Solid Paving Options

The most common types of solid paving that are used in driveway paving are asphalt and concrete. Both of these options offer homeowners the benefits of a flat, smooth, solid driveway. They are more expensive than gravel or tar paving options. Both concrete and asphalt require regular maintenance, including annual driveway sealing to cover cracks that may appear in the surface of the driveway.