Different Styles of Driveways

Asphalt

• Asphalt or blacktop driveways are strong but flexible, capable of handling the extreme temperature shifts that occur in northern states. An asphalt driveway is quick to install and can often be put to use only a day or two after paving. Though initial hardening is rapid, maximum density can take several years, leaving the driveway somewhat fragile for the first few years. With regular crack repair and new sealant every few years, an asphalt driveway can last two to three decades.

Concrete

• A concrete driveway is somewhat more expensive but normally requires less upkeep than the asphalt variety. Concrete driveways are best suited for use in southern states due to the greater risk of cracking in cold weather and sensitivity to road salts and other deicers. A concrete driveway takes longer to install, with three to seven days required for it to fully set. The type of maintenance needed for a concrete driveway is similar to that required more frequently for asphalt driveways, and it too will last 20 to 30 years.

Gravel

• Gravel or crushed-stone driveways are inexpensive but also require the most maintenance. Quicker to install than any other style of driveway, a gravel driveway needs little more than to be poured into place. Once installed, it needs frequent upkeep, though this fortunately is nothing more than raking and spraying herbicide. Driveways in wintry areas tend to be harder to care for, due to the large amounts of gravel displaced during snow removal. A gravel driveway generally lasts three to five years.

Paved

• One of the most attractive driveway styles, concrete paving stones are particularly popular in southerly areas. Paved driveways are much more expensive than most other options and often take the longest to install. Because each stone must be set into place, typically by hand, a paved driveway will usually take approximately a week to finish. Once in place, however, paving stones make one of the most resilient driveway types around. Maintenance is trivial, consisting of little more than occasional weed pulling and edging, and a paved driveway can last as long as 40 years.