The process is time-consuming, but not difficult. Gravel is a DIY-friendly material for driveways, as it can be applied simply by dumping it on a flattened area and raking it out into smooth layer. Another popular choice is sorted river gravel, consisting of smooth pebbles. In areas with limestone bedrock, for example, gravel driveways will often consist of crushed limestone, while in other areas, crushed granite might be the most common choice. The gravel used for driveways is usually crushed rock or sorted aggregate with pieces 1 to 2 inches in diameter.ĭifferent colors of gravel may be available, but choices are often limited to the type of rock indigenous to your area. It is often used for rural homes with very long driveways where asphalt or concrete would be prohibitively expensive. The very least expensive driveway paving surface is simple gravel spread out over a prepared, flattened base. Photo courtesy David Reber's Hammer Photography flickr/Creative Commonsīest for: Inexpensive surface for rustic home and landscape styles.
But unlike concrete, an asphalt surface can be relayered when the surface becomes damaged. Compared to concrete, asphalt is a somewhat higher maintenance paving surface, and it can be susceptible to softening on hot days and can be deformed by tree roots growing beneath the surface. Costs for having an asphalt driveway installed average $5 to $7 per square foot, though site preparation (such as removal of old driveway surfaces and laying a sub-base) can add to this cost.Īsphalt driveways typically last 15 to 20 years, though regular sealing and patching can extend this life somewhat. Although this is not a DIY-friendly material (at least for the initial installation), it is usually a less-expensive option than concrete or pavers. which is heated then laid over a 4- to 8-inch layer of compactable gravel that provides drainage and a solid base.
Eximo concrete professional#
Professional installation will cost $4 to $10 per square foot, though removal of an old driveway and site preparation can add to that cost.īut although concrete is more expensive than asphalt, it can be a cost-effective choice over the long run, since the surface lasts a very long time-the lifespan of a concrete driveway can be 25 to 50 years.īest for: Long-lasting driveways where appearance is not critical.Īsphalt surfaces consist of a mixture of sand, aggregate, and a tar-like liquid, sometimes called bitumen. While a DIY installation is possible, it is quite difficult and most people opt to have professionals pour and finish a concrete driveway.
Installation is quite labor-intensive, requiring the creation of a packed sub-base layer, constructing wooden forms to hold the liquid concrete, reinforcing the concrete with rebar or wire mesh, and carefully tooling and smoothing the surface after it's poured. Concrete is placed in the forms with a concreteĬoncrete (sometimes mistakenly called "cement") is a paving surface created by blending water, powdered Portland cement, sand, and gravel aggregate, pouring it between forms when wet, and allowing it to harden into one of the most durable of all paving surfaces. The Spruce Home Improvement Review BoardĬoncrete (cement) truck and construction crew pouring concrete in a residential driveway.
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