When it comes to choosing an entirely new driveway there are a variety of choices. We’ll take away concrete and gravel, and take a look at two main aspects of the equation: asphalt and pavers. One is a tried-and reliable driveway material that’s been present in every house you’ve purchased or rented through the years. The alternative is a fascinating alternative that has some distinct advantages. Here are three points to remember when making a choice and speaking with the driveway contractor about the alternatives.
Cost Considerations: Costs Up Front Costs
Asphalt is well-known for its low cost, but it is it is beaten by a gravel or unimproved driveway on the basis of costs. Pavers however are more labor-intensive and resource-intensive, since they cost more than the same layer of asphalt and have to be manually placed. The rest of the process must be the same and the sub-layers of the driveway made in a similar manner, requiring excavation followed by layers of gravel of the right size and sand are used to create the base that will serve as to construct the driveway material. Because pavers are larger than the layers of asphalt and the excavation could be a little larger.
Cost considerations Maintenance
What offsets the expense of pavers? One of the most important advantages is that they last more quickly than asphalt with less maintenance needed. To keep an asphalt driveway it is recommended that the seal coat must be put on within 6 months of the time of the installation and kept in place with a new coat every year. Cracks due to moisture or other issues could lead to hairline to potholes when not treated. Pavers, composed of stronger materials and are separate components, are less likely to break and don’t require any treatment. If one breaks it is easy to replace it.
Food For Thought Food For Thought: Function and Form
Permeable pavers can also permit water to flow through the driveway and help prevent flooding or pooling during heavy rain. This is something that cannot be replicated by an asphalt or concrete driveway. Many who are considering pavers as an option are thinking about aesthetics. Asphalt is a classic, however it’s not a changeable material: asphalt remains black. Pavers are available in a variety of sizes, colors and designs that they can be placed in. The added design element can make for a longer overall project, and a higher cost however it will also result in a more striking driveway (and hence, the curb appeal and yard).
Summary: Paver Driveway vs Asphalt Driveway
Three important lessons learned when comparing the two kinds of driveways:
Asphalt is more affordable than pavers when it comes to initial cost of installation.
Pavers are less frequent and typically last longer.
You can choose more style and options for visual appeal with pavers.
We hope that this analysis on two sought-after driveway choices has given you some insight into the type of driveway you’d like to have. If you choose not to opt for asphalt Contact Toronto Paving. We can install pavers, gravel as well as concrete driveways throughout Toronto, ON, and would be delighted to offer an obligation-free consultation regarding the options available.