First impressions are important and your driveway is one of the first things that people notice when they pull up to your house. The fact of the matter is that the house with the most beautiful driveway will stand out from the rest.
The importance of a good driveway is often forgotten. In fact, it is one of the most under-rated home upgrades because it is something most people don’t think about until it starts having issues. Driveways are supported by the soil and Item 4 underneath, so if not properly compacted the driveway will likely become damaged or can create flooding problems because of pooling water (typically resulting from improper slope/drainage).
Characteristics of Driveways include, but are not limited to:
Facilitate water drainage that collects water between the driveway and the house.
Be level and capable of holding the weight of multiple vehicles without impacting structural integrity.
Slope from the house at least 6 inches in the first 10 feet so that water does not become "trapoped".
Have traction, especially when wet.
Be wide enough to accommodate at least one vehicle and have an area to turn around.
Offer a transition between the street and the entrance to the home.
Prevent vehicles from straying onto the lawn.
Be safe to drive, park, walk and/or play on.
Did you know: Research has shown that the condition of your home's exterior can impact the perception of the condition of the interior. In short, an ill-maintained home exterior often reflects an ill-maintained interior.
Benefits of a Beautiful Driveway
The condition of your driveway is a very important aspect of your home and there are many benefits to keeping it well maintained. Homeowners looking to sell their home often choose to prioritize updating the driveway because most buyers don’t want to deal with major upgrades. A home with a beautiful driveway makes the home more attractive.
Curb Appeal
Anything that adds beauty and function to your home will almost certainly result in a major boost to its curb appeal, add character and will make your home truly shine.
Functionality
While a beautiful driveway is a great way to make your home stand out from the rest, it must, at a minimum, be functional. The driveway’s surface must be level, stable and able to withstand daily vehicular traffic and must be safe to drive, walk and play on.
Increased Home Value
Improving the curb appeal and functionality of your driveway is almost certain to increase your home’s value. In fact, research has shown that a new driveway can add up to 10% in property value.
Driveway Materials
Your driveway must inherently be strong, stable, well-drained and properly maintained. It is important to remember that it is normal for a driveway to contract, expand and settle based on temperature and weather conditions, especially when the ground freezes.
Depending on the size of the driveway, your budget, and the particular look you desire, there are a variety of options to choose from. Today’s homeowners are also able to select from a variety of finishing techniques that provide an upscale appearance manufactured to mimic brick or stone..
Concrete
Concrete is one of the most popular driveway materials because it is the longest-lasting driveway surface. A mixture of water, lime and cement (pulverized powder made from limestone and clay), concrete is considered the “old standby” of driveway materials.
Concrete driveways are virtually maintenance free. An occasional thorough cleaning (such as Soft Washing or Pressure Washing) will keep it looking new. A quality concrete sealer used once per year will add an extra layer of protection.
Because of its weight, concrete requires a stable, well-drained base, reinforced with wire mesh and control joints to avoid being damaged resulting from normal contracting and expanding. Typical concrete driveways are made with gravel sized stones. Smaller stones are sometimes used in place of the gravel to create a smoother finish.
Pros:
Long-term value (its longevity will likely save money over time)
Less expensive than asphalt or stone
Dye or stamping can be added to create a bespoke space
Virtually maintenance free (a good concrete sealer used once/year will add an extra layer of protection)
Will not soften when exposed to prolonged extreme heat/sunlight
Durable
Cons:
Plain concrete driveways should be thicker at the edges (to help prevent cracking)
Can be damaged if not maintained properly
Structural integrity is dependent on the quality of materials used
Susceptible to cracking and breaking due to freezing and thawing.
Asphalt / Blacktop
Asphalt is composed of sand, rock and asphalt cement. While asphalt driveways are typically black in color, many homeowners are opting to incorporate various design elements such as stamping, in order to differentiate the driveway’s appearance.
When properly installed and maintained, an asphalt driveway should last many decades. Maintenance can consist of sealing cracks as needed and using a high quality sealant once per year.
Pros:
Budget-friendly
Easily available
Cons:
Prone to cracks
Can be damaged by heavy vehicles
Softens when exposed to direct sunlight/extreme heat
Water freezing below the pavement can sometimes cause frost heave to occur, which may deform the asphalt / blacktop
Gravel
Loose gravel, often contained within a barrier, is a great option for homes that have long, winding driveways or anyone searching for an organic, natural look. However, gravel tends to spread, which can create uneven surfaces and require regular maintenance.
Pros:
Provides natural drainage
Provides Traction
Budget-friendly
Organic, natural aesthetic
Eco-friendly
Long-lasting
Quick to Install
Minimal maintenance
Cons:
High maintenance (must be raked regularly)
May need to add gravel every 2-3 years
Can spread if not confined with edging
Cobblestone
Cobblestone streets have been around for thousands of years for a reason. When done properly, a cobblestone driveway will not only last for many years to come, but cobblestone tends to look better over time.
Pros:
Durable
Long-lasting
Upscale aesthetic
Cons:
Expensive
Potential safety hazards due to inherent features of cobblestone
Brick
Brick has been used since ancient times because of its durability and offers a classic/timeless look that adds a ton of character to a home. Brick is readily available and can add a dramatic effect to the overall appearance of the entire property.
Pros:
Long-lasting
Durable
Upscale aesthetic
Cons:
Expensive
Potential safety hazards due to inherent features of cobblestone
Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers have surged in popularity because they are more affordable than natural stone. In fact, modern pavers can be installed using a variety of finishing techniques to create a bespoke look, such as stamps, colors, textures etc.
Pros:
Versatility
Traction
Less expensive than natural stone
Long-lasting
Variety
Uniform in size
Cons:
Expensive
Uplifting can create safety hazards
Concrete Slabs
Another driveway option that has had a surge in popularity, concrete slabs offer a more contemporary look. The gaps between the slabs are usually filled with gravel or ground cover to create a level/stable surface. A thin coat of texturing material is often added to the top of each slab to keep it from becoming a safety hazard.
Pros:
Creates a unique look
Versatility (can create virtually any design etc.)
Can become expensive depending on quantity and quality of materials used
Glass
Homeowners looking for a truly unique look are opting to incorporate glass as their driveway material. The driveway is created using a mosaic of thick, smooth pieces of glass and is sealed with resin. Most manufacturers utilize recycled glass to create a variety of colors, sizes and shapes to choose from, so the options are virtually endless.
Pros:
Eco-friendly
Versatility
Durable
Low maintenance
Wide variety of colors/shapes/sizes
Unique and eye-catching
Cons:
Specialized installation techniques
Expensive compared to Concrete and Asphalt
Individualized style preference (may not appeal to a future buyer)
Green
An environmentally friendly green driveway is the perfect option for anyone looking to create a truly unique, organic space. Typically available in two options, a green driveway can be designed to create a natural masterpiece:
Grid: Usually made from concrete and contains small holes where the grass will grow from. The grids come in a variety of shapes and designs.
Plastic Base: A plastic base covered by a grass surface. The base enables the driveway to hold its shape and creates a stable surface for vehicle traffic.
Pros:
Eco-friendly
Natural/organic aesthetic
Versatility
Budget friendly
Unique and eye-catching
Cons:
Maintenance (feeding/mowing the grass etc.)
Must incorporate proper drainage
Potential safety concerns during winter months when grass is dormant or freezes
Uncommon in the Northeast due to harsh winter climate
Driveway Options
Many homeowners are incorporating things such as edging and ornate aprons because not only do they add to the home’s curb appeal but may help maintain the driveway and prolong its life. All driveways have a slight sloping of the edges to transfer the stress from the surface into the ground beneath it.
Edging/Border
Edging not only looks great all year round, but it serves many purposes. Laying stones/brick/pavers/Belgian block etc. side by side along the perimeter of the driveway helps to ensure that driveway materials (such as gravel) do not spill onto the property and to help prevent vehicles from straying onto the yard. In addition, the border helps ensure that the driveway is not elevated higher than the yard, which can impact the structural integrity of the driveway. The edging helps to secure the sides of the driveway to prevent it from being damaged as it can eventually crack from the prolonged weight of vehicular traffic.
Apron/Approach
Also known as the approach, a driveway apron is the area where your driveway meets the road. For homes with a sidewalk in front, the apron typically reaches the edge of the sidewalk closest to the house. Its purpose is to provide easy access and seamless transition from the driveway into the road and are typically made using the same material as the driveway itself. However, many homeowners wanting to create an upscale aesthetic are choosing to incorporate pavers/stone/brick etc. An apron is a great option for anyone looking for a driveway upgrade without having to go through an entire driveway overhaul.
Common Driveway Issues
As with any home improvement project, there are several things to consider before embarking on a driveway installation or renovation. It is important to address any driveway issues sooner rather than later to prevent safety hazards. In addition, repairs are a great preventative measure and are much less costly versus having to replace the entire driveway.
Drainage
It is important to anticipate drainage requirements, especially if your driveway is sloped. Without proper drainage, water will not be able to move away from the house, which can cause serious issues with your home’s foundation and deteriorate the driveway.
Elevation
In addition to being able to drain properly, your driveway must slope from your house so that water is not able to collect and pool. Ponding water can create safety hazards, especially when the water freezes.
Uneven Materials
Driveways made from uneven materials, such as pavers will likely need a higher slope to drain properly. However, if the slope is too steep, the driveway can be difficult to drive or walk on, especially in inclement weather.
Uplift
Usually caused by the roots of large trees, uplift is a common driveway issue. Roots can spread out as far as the tree canopy, so we recommend that your driveway not be located where a tree’s canopy overhangs a portion of the driveway.
Cracks
Driveway cracks are caused by a variety of factors, particularly when not installed properly or using the most appropriate materials for the region. Repairs can be made using a variety of materials such as hot or cold sealants.
Settlement
While settlement is inevitable, driveways can be damaged when the soil has not been compacted properly during the preparation phase, or by soil erosion caused by an improper slope/grading. Without proper installation, the entire driveway surface can be compromised.
If you’ve noticed cracks/uplift/settlement or other damage to your driveway, before investing money into any repairs, it’s important to first determine the root cause of the problem. Unless the issue is addressed, it’s very likely that the same problem will reoccur.
Installation
In time, all driveways can erode, crack or separate. Driveway installation projects require specialized equipment and will vary based on the level of expertise and materials used. It cannot be overstated the importance of working with a credible, qualified company such as Honey Do Men.
If you are looking to boost your home’s curb appeal, updating your driveway will undoubtedly make a great first impression. After all, it is the first thing people will notice upon approaching your house. Honey Do Men has over two decades of experience designing and installing driveways of all types and sizes.
Call us today to discuss your driveway makeover vision and have the peace of mind knowing that your driveway is not only beautiful and welcoming, but will be able to withstand the test of time.
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Concrete: Durable, low maintenance, and versatile in design options like stamped or stained patterns. Suitable for most climates but prone to cracking in freezing temperatures if not properly installed.
Asphalt: Affordable, quick to install, and easy to repair. However, it requires regular maintenance like sealing and may soften in extreme heat.
Gravel: Cost-effective, allows for good drainage, and offers a rustic aesthetic. However, it requires periodic replenishment and maintenance to prevent potholes and ruts.
Pavers: Interlocking concrete or stone pavers offer a durable and visually appealing option with various design possibilities. They are more expensive than asphalt or concrete but provide easy repairability.
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful driveway installation or repair:
Excavation: Remove any existing driveway materials and excavate the area to the appropriate depth, accounting for the base and surface layers of the new driveway.
Grading and drainage: Ensure proper grading to direct water away from structures and prevent pooling on the driveway surface. Install drainage solutions like culverts or French drains if necessary.
Base preparation: Compact the subgrade and add a layer of aggregate base material to provide stability and support for the driveway surface.
Edge restraints: Install edge restraints or borders along the sides of the driveway to prevent spreading and maintain structural integrity
Regular maintenance helps prolong the lifespan of your driveway:
Cleaning: Remove debris, leaves, and oil stains regularly to prevent surface deterioration and staining.
Sealing: Apply a sealant to asphalt or concrete driveways every few years to protect against moisture penetration, UV damage, and surface wear.
Filling cracks: Fill cracks and repair potholes promptly to prevent water infiltration and further damage.
Resurfacing: Resurface asphalt or concrete driveways as needed to address surface wear, cracking, or deterioration.
Enhance the curb appeal of your driveway with these ideas:
Landscaping: Frame the driveway with landscaping elements like flower beds, shrubs, or trees to soften the edges and add visual interest.
Lighting: Install outdoor lighting along the driveway edges or illuminate the entrance with decorative fixtures to enhance visibility and curb appeal at night.
Borders and edging: Define the driveway boundaries with decorative borders or edging materials like brick, stone, or pavers to create a polished look.
Decorative features: Consider decorative options like stamped patterns, exposed aggregates, or colored concrete to add texture and visual appeal to the driveway surface.
Alejandra King ClientDavid’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started...Read More