Driveway Paving Recommendations

Pavers

• Pavers are a practical paving material for beginner and savvy do-it-yourselfers alike. They are cut or molded into uniform shapes and made from stone, concrete or clay. Geometric pavers include squares, octagons, standard 4-by-8 inch rectangles, and large rectangles that measure up to 22-by-22 inches, also referred to as paving blocks. Interlocking pavers are cut with beveled edges so they lock into adjacent pieces, forming a nearly solid pavement. Regardless of the design you choose, pavers can be set in sand for clean, straight forward installation without the mess of mortar.

Stones

• A stone driveway makes a grand first impression. Stones naturally resist weather damage and bring out the rugged beauty of a yard. They are available as pavers or snapped pieces. Snapped paving stones come in irregular sizes and shapes, and are split so they have a flat surface. They are typically set over a gravel base with a thin sand bed, and held in place by edge restraints. Plan to dry-lay them on the ground beside the driveway site, and turn each piece in different positions until the spaces in between are minimal. Compact stone dust or fine sand in the gaps between stones.

Asphalt

• Asphalt paving involves working with hot, loose asphalt, which often calls for professional equipment and skills. Well-laid asphalt driveways last for decades and they're practically no maintenance. They're a good fit for slopes and driveways of length. Once the strong, solid gravel base is installed, a 2- to 3 inch thick layer of asphalt is spread and compacted into a uniform surface with a roller machine. Asphalt driveways take about six months to cure before they can be sealed.

Concrete

• Pouring a concrete driveway is challenging, but do-it-yourselfers with a small team can complete the project in a few days. Though concrete can be poured directly on compacted dirt, laying a gravel base at least 8 inches thick reduces the chance of frost heave damage and improves drainage. Before mixing the concrete, decide if you want to color the mix or stamp the surface to add texture and style. Concrete stamps are designed to be pressed into a wet surface. Patterns include a natural pebbled look, brick work and other stones.