All types of driveways have their pros and cons, but after being in the business for more than 20 years, we firmly believe that paver blocks are the best solution. And the reason is simple; they are the best investment. We have seen this type of driveway’s durability and cost efficiency outperform its stamped concrete alternative time and time again. Plus, its enduring beauty adds the most resale value of any other driveway option. Before we dig into the cost-benefit analysis, let’s examine the different types of driveways.
Asphalt Driveway
Asphalt is a popular driveway option throughout the country. So many homeowners choose this driveway material because of its versatility. It is an affordable and reliable solution just about anywhere but is most prevalent in rural suburbs. Its biggest drawback compared to stone pavers is that it doesn’t last as long and does not provide nearly as much resale value.
Pros
Price: This driveway type can cost between $5 to $12 a square foot – relatively affordable compared to alternatives.
Maintenance: The material allows for easy repairs that don’t require redoing large sections of the driveway.
Cons
Durability: Asphalt does not have a long lifespan. It ranges between 20-25 years which is significantly shorter than most.
Eco-friendly: Since asphalt uses petroleum, it has lasting negative impacts on the environment.
Weather: This type of driveway is not great for hot climates. Its black surface absorbs the heat making it uncomfortable to touch and bad for tires.
Concrete Driveway
Second to asphalt, concrete is another popular type of driveway. Its popularity is primarily due to its “lay and forget about it” appeal. There is very little maintenance required, and in some areas can last up to 40 years. Though, this appeal is lost on most southern Californians. Any daytime stroll along a sidewalk quickly reveals that concrete does not hold up well on our ever-shifting tectonic plates. Since we live in California, we always inform customers of this eventuality and strongly recommend paver blocks as a better solution.
Pros
Price: It can cost between $5 and $8 per square foot.
Durability: Can last up to 40 years (in select climates)
Maintenance: Almost none required.
Cons
Cracks: Regardless of location, all concrete will crack.
Repairs: When concrete does crack or is damaged, it is challenging and expensive to repair.
Gravel Driveways
Gravel driveways are one of the most affordable driveway options, but they offer the most negligible resale value of any alternatives listed. They require regular maintenance and frequent additional gravel leveling. And if you have a lawn, you will need to regularly rake the loose gravel to avoid damages to your lawnmower. We understand budget constraints when comparing stone gravel to paver blocks. Still, We encourage customers to consider pavers if they are open to selling down the road and want to avoid time-consuming maintenance.
Pros
Price: $1 to $3 per square foot
Variety: Customers can choose between many different types of stone.
Easy to Install: With the right tools, homeowners can easily lay the stone themselves on small driveways.
Cons
Up-keep: Since gravel is a loose material, gravity, vehicles, and other natural forces will inevitably create an uneven driveway with potholes, ruts, and alike.
Weather: It is difficult to plow or shovel snow or any substance from gravel surfaces.
Dirt: Cars kick up gravel and dirt, making your vehicle dirty and sometimes leaving scratches.
Stamped Concrete Driveway
Stamped concrete is the closest alternative to paver blocks but has the same drawbacks as regular concrete – and then some. It endeavors to add the same aesthetic and resale value as actual paver blocks at a lower price. The main problem with this approach is that any repairs or design adjustments are complicated and expensive. And like stated before, southern California is not friendly to concrete.
Pros
Price: $10 to $12 per square foot
Design: Stamped concrete has an unlimited number of styles and appearances.
Durability: Last as long as a regular concrete driveway, but the stamping can fade faster than the concrete lifespan.
Cons
Cracks: Regardless of location, all concrete will crack.
Repairs: When concrete does crack or is damaged, it is challenging and expensive to repair – especially with custom stamped designs.
It is Not Easy: Since contractors pour the concrete at once, it is tough to stamp and stain with zero mistakes.
Paver Blocks Driveway (The Best Solution)
There is a reason why among all the different types of driveways, paver blocks have remained such an iconic paving style for centuries. They are flexible, durable, and, most importantly, beautiful. The right craftsmanship can make driveways, roads, and patios artwork for generations to admire. This time-tested technique is why all home renovators and flippers never turn down an opportunity to use paver blocks in their design plans.
Pavers defined:
Pavers are tiles, bricks, or stones used as exterior flooring, commonly used in driveways, pathways, and walkways. They are made up of a mixture of these four materials, including clay, stone, brick, and concrete. Pavers vary in different colors, textures, shapes, and sizes.
Pros:
Durability: With the right materials, pavers can last 75 years
No heavy equipment: It does not require a lot of construction vehicles to lay the pavers.
Highest Resale Value: Its durability and beauty make it an attractive feature to buyers.
Wide Selection: Customers can choose between a wide variety of colors and materials.
Easy Maintenance: Simple power washes can brighten and make pavers look brand new.
Easy Repairs: Since contractors install pavers one by one, it is easy and affordable to repair damaged or settled stones.
Slip Resistant: The porous pavers absorb rainwater preventing puddles and slipping.
Cons:
Can be expensive: The price varies from $10 to $30 a square foot.
Weeds: improper installations can result in weeds growing through the cracks.
Why the Strong Point of View
Among all the different types of driveways, we are such strong advocates of paver block driveways because the pros far outweigh the cons. We understand that many shy away from the upfront costs, but a deeper look into the added property value shows just how cost-effective this type of driveway is. But, to benefit from the full value, the installer must lay the pavers correctly with great care and craftsmanship. One small mistake can result in uneven pavers, weeds, and gaps. Our contractors are the best at taking every precaution to ensure that the interlocking pavers are installed correctly. Our team of designers and contractors can help plan a beautiful paver block driveway that will be admired for generations.
If you’re looking at pavers or these other types of driveways for an upcoming project, reach out to our team today to discuss the best options for your space and design.
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