Unlike dirt or sand, paved driveways direct rainwater to proper channels, preventing puddles and potholes. They are also easy to maintain and look great.
Long Island Driveway Paving use pavers and concrete to create defined edges that prevent the spread of pavement over time. They are resistant to thawing and freezing, which can cause cracks that require costly repair.
Whether you have just moved into your home or simply need to repave an old one, the decision to choose the right driveway paving material is crucial. After all, the driveway takes a lot of abuse: it has to be able to hold up to the weather and traffic while also looking good. It’s also an important part of the overall curb appeal, so it should complement your architectural style and design preferences.
Fortunately, there are many options available to choose from when it comes to driveway paving. Here are some of the main ones:
Asphalt
The most common option for homeowners, asphalt is inexpensive and fairly easy to install. Its durability means that it can withstand most weather conditions and traffic loads without cracking or deteriorating. In addition, it can be resealed to extend its lifespan.
Concrete
Another popular choice, concrete is an attractive and durable option that offers flexibility with regards to color, texture and pattern. Its versatility makes it suitable for both modern and traditional styles, as well as for a wide range of budgets. Concrete driveways are relatively easy to repair, and they can be resealed several times to increase their lifespan.
Brick
Pavers can be a beautiful addition to any home, but they are usually pricier than other materials such as poured asphalt and concrete. They are also a challenge to maintain in winter, when freezing and thawing can loosen and crack them.
Other Options
Innovators have been experimenting with blending materials to offer the best of both worlds, combining durability with aesthetics. For example, composite decking combines wood fibers with plastic to resist weathering. Similarly, pervious asphalt and concrete feature small voids to allow water to penetrate the surface, helping with groundwater recharge and providing more efficient drainage than standard paved materials. These types of eco-friendly solutions may not be as affordable as a poured concrete or asphalt driveway, but they can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
Finding a Contractor
There are many different paving contractors out there, and it’s important that you do your research before choosing one to work on your driveway. You should look for a company that has a current contractor’s license for paving and that is fully insured. Make sure that the insurance coverage includes general liability, auto liability, workers’ compensation, and an umbrella policy. Having a good quality driveway is an investment that should last for years to come, so it’s worth the extra effort to find a reputable and experienced contractor.
The contractor you choose for your driveway paving project will have a big impact on the results. You want to choose a professional with years of experience and a good reputation in the community. Ask for a list of references and ask to see pictures of their past work. If possible, go out and visit some of the driveways they have worked on so you can see how well they have been maintained.
A well-maintained driveway isn’t just about looking good — it also helps keep your vehicles safe and extends the life of the paving. Make sure that the contractor you choose offers a maintenance plan that will help keep your driveway in top condition.
Another important consideration is cost. You should get quotes from several contractors before making a decision. Compare the prices and services that each offers to determine which is the best value for your money. You may be able to save some by going with a cheaper option, but you’ll likely end up spending more in the long run.
You should also ask the contractor about who will actually be working on your driveway. It’s not a job that can be done by just one or two people, and you deserve to know who will be working on your home.
You should also ask the contractor about the warranty they offer on their work. A good paving contractor will stand behind their work and will offer a warranty that covers both the workmanship and the materials used. You should also inquire about the length of time that the warranty is valid and whether it applies to both residential and commercial projects.
Edging and Borders
Aside from making your driveway look beautiful, edging and borders also provide clear demarcation between the driveway and other outdoor elements of your property like gardens, lawns or walking paths. You can choose from different types of edging and borders, such as concrete, brick, stone, or plastic. Each material has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to understand your options before settling on one.
Driveway edging is especially important if you’re using an asphalt mix to pave your driveway. Without edging, the edges of the driveway may disintegrate under pressure from moisture and constant use by vehicles. Adding edging will keep the asphalt in place and prevent it from spreading or cracking.
Edging will also protect your walkways from erosion. It can be difficult for weeds and grass to grow in the gaps of an un-edged pathway, but it will be nearly impossible for them to do so when you have a solid edging system protecting the edges of your pathways. This will also make it much easier for your guests to walk across your driveway and walkways, as they will have clearly defined barriers to cross.
The first step in creating a driveway edge is to excavate the area around the path. Once you’ve done this, it’s time to mark out where the edging should go using string lines or laser levels. Then you’ll need to dig down about 6 inches along the marked line and install a base course of either gravel or concrete.
Finally, you can start installing the actual edging. There are several different ways to do this, but one of the most common is to install a soldier course border pattern. This consists of edge pavers that are laid lengthwise in one or more rows, with the colors of each block designed to contrast with those of the rest of the pavement.
Another option is to go with a flat edging, which will create a more defined look and prevent gravel and surface materials from spilling into your lawn. This type of edging is typically made of concrete, brick, or stone and comes in a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes to suit your preferences.
Installation
Driveway paving can enhance the curb appeal of your home, especially when you choose a material that complements your home’s architecture. It’s also easy to keep a paved driveway looking new with regular maintenance, including periodic sealing and repairs of cracks and potholes. In addition, professional paving contractors can help you select the right material for your climate, as some materials may be unsuitable for colder areas due to freeze-thaw cycles.
Driveways constructed from paved materials, such as asphalt and concrete, are durable and can withstand the weight of vehicles. They’re also designed to be aesthetically pleasing and integrate well with the landscaping of your yard. Paved driveways look pristine and more finished than gravel or sand, giving your house that extra bit of class it needs to stand out from other homes in the neighborhood.
When choosing a material for your driveway, you should also consider its long-term investment and installation price. Some materials are more expensive upfront than others, but they can last longer and require less frequent maintenance and repair. A professional paving contractor can guide you in selecting the best material for your driveway and help you determine the best budget to fit your needs.
Asphalt is a cost-effective option that can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. A paving contractor can use hot mix asphalt to resurface your existing driveway, creating a smooth jet-black surface that’s visually appealing and durable.
Gravel is another affordable option for driveways. It’s typically made from a crushed granite or other type of rock that can be purchased in a variety of colors. A paving contractor can use a power tamper to compact and level the gravel base before laying pavers. A sand layer is then placed on top to create a smooth surface.
Permeable pavers are an eco-friendly choice for driveways because they allow water to pass through, reducing runoff and feeding the natural groundwater supply. They can be installed in a variety of ways, from a simple grid pattern to more decorative designs such as herringbone or basket weave.