Driveway Paving Solutions

Pavers

• Pavers are a versatile paving material you can set in mortar or sand. Driveway pavers are molded from concrete or cut from clay or stone, and are thicker than patio and walkway pavers. For a solid surface with an intricate pattern, consider using an interlocking paver kit. These pavers are cut with beveled edges and lock into adjacent pavers so they don't shift around.

Concrete

• Concrete is used for driveways because it's durable and blends seamlessly with almost any landscape. Pouring a concrete driveway is a project fit for a small team of at least 3 people. Once the site is excavated and gravel foundation laid, there's a small window of time to properly manipulate the concrete before it begins to harden. To prevent cracking, cut a 3- to 4-square-foot grid of control joints into the surface while it's still wet. Once the pavement has cured for 7 days, seal it with a penetrating acrylic sealant.

Bricks

• If you want to add a traditional, welcoming touch, consider paving a brick driveway. The standard size for bricks is 4 by 8 inches, but you can cut them with a splitter or hammer and chisel to fit circular patterns or a curved driveway. Herringbone and basket weave are two examples of classic brick designs, or lay them in straight rows with staggered joints. Use edge restraints to help hold bricks in place, whether you set them in sand or mortar.

Exposed Aggregate

• Exposed aggregate is a finish used to give concrete surfaces a more-distinctive look. There are several ways to install exposed aggregate, and the results reveal a surface layer of decorative stone embedded in the concrete. The simplest way to achieve this look is to pour a thin layer of concrete over a freshly poured slab, and press stones into the concrete with a board. The depth of the exposure should be just enough to reveal the color and top shape of the stones without leaving them vulnerable to being dislodged from the concrete.