What Are the Best Driveway Materials?

Concrete driveway

A concrete driveway is a popular choice due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. It offers a clean, modern look and can last up to 100 years with proper care. Concrete driveways are ideal for various climates, as they withstand extreme weather conditions.

Cost: $4-$15 per square foot (average is $2,340 to $7,500)

Pros:

• Long-lasting and durable, even in hot climates
• Low maintenance but should be periodically resealed
• Versatile design options and comparatively affordable

Cons:

• Can crack over time, especially in cold climates
• Limited flexibility in design compared to pavers

Asphalt driveway

Asphalt driveways are known for their smooth, blacktop surface and ability to withstand cold climates. They are quicker to install and generally cost less upfront compared to concrete. They can last 15 to 30 years. However, they require regular maintenance, including resealing every few years.

Cost: $7-$15 per square foot (average is $4,740)

Pros:

• Affordable compared to options like concrete
• Low maintenance but requires occasional resealing
• Good for colder climates

Cons:

• Asphalt can become sticky or damaged in hot climates
• Shorter lifespan compared to concrete

Gravel driveway

Gravel driveways are an economical option, especially for long driveways. They provide excellent drainage and are relatively easy to install. However, they require frequent maintenance to manage weeds and replenish gravel.

Cost: $1.25 to $1.80 per square foot (average is $800 to $1,110)

Pros:

• One of the most affordable driveway materials
• Easy to install with many stone size and color options
• Good drainage that prevents pooling

Cons:

• High maintenance to periodically replenish gravel
• Can be messy from dirt, dust, ruts, and potholes
• Snow removal may be more difficult

Brick driveway

Brick driveways offer a classic, timeless look with excellent durability. They can be customized in various patterns and colors. While bricks are strong, they can be expensive and require regular maintenance to prevent shifting and cracking.

Cost: $10-$30 per square foot

Pros:

• Attractive and customizable for high curb appeal
• Durable and strong in all weather conditions
• Can be easily repaired with replacement bricks

Cons:

• Expensive to purchase and labor-intensive installation
• Limited colors and styles compared to pavers
• Bricks can shift and become loose

Paver driveway

Paver driveways are highly versatile and available in a range of colors, shapes, and designs. They are durable and easy to repair, as individual pavers can be replaced without disturbing the rest of the driveway.

Cost: $10 to $50 per square foot (average is $12,000)

Pros:

• Highly customizable with many color and design options
• Durable and easy to repair or replace
• High-end curb appeal and home value boost

Cons:

• High purchase and installation costs
• Pavers can shift over time and create gaps for weeds
• Snow removal can be more difficult

Stamped concrete driveway

Stamped concrete driveways mimic the look of more expensive materials like stone or brick at a lower cost. They are durable and offer a wide range of design possibilities. However, they can be prone to cracking and require resealing to maintain their appearance.

Cost: $12 and $28 per square foot (Can average twice the cost of plain concrete)

Pros:

• Attractive and versatile compared to standard concrete
• Less expensive than bricks, pavers, or natural stone
• Durable in most all climates and can last 50 to 100 years

Cons:

• Can crack over time and can be hard to repair
• Requires regular maintenance, such as resealing

Turf (grass and paver) driveway

Turf driveways combine grass with pavers to create a green, eco-friendly option. They allow for good drainage and blend well with natural surroundings. However, they require regular mowing and maintenance.

Cost:  $12 to $40 per square foot

Pros:

• Eco-friendly and sustainable
• Attractive and unique natural look

Cons:

• High maintenance, weeding, and mowing
• More costly than other materials
• Not the most suitable for cold, snowy climates

Stone driveway

Stone driveways offer a natural, rustic look and are highly durable. They come in various types, such as flagstone, granite, and bluestone, each providing a unique aesthetic. Stone driveways are low maintenance but can be expensive.

Cost: $10 to $50 per square foot

Pros:

• Natural and attractive for curb appeal and home value
• Durable and long-lasting, up to 50 years
• Low maintenance and easy to repair

Cons:

• High cost compared to standard driveway materials
• Labor-intensive installation and upkeep
• Can be slippery when wet and harder to remove snow

Tar and chip driveway

Tar and chip driveways are a cost-effective option for rural areas. They offer good traction and are relatively low maintenance. However, they don’t last as long as asphalt or concrete and may need resurfacing over time.

Cost: $1-$5 per square foot (average is $1,600)

Pros:

• More affordable than concrete or asphalt
• Good traction and more attractive and durable than gravel
• A good choice for lower-traffic driveways

Cons:

• Shorter lifespan, typically 7 to 10 years
• Rougher surface and limited design options
• Needs more maintenance than concrete and asphalt
• Can be damaged by snow plows

Less common types of driveways

Cobblestone driveway

Cobblestone driveways provide an old-world charm and are extremely durable, often lasting over a century. They offer a unique and attractive appearance but come with a high price tag and require skilled labor for installation.

Cost: $20-$70 -per square foot (average is 16,700)

Pros:

• Highly durable, lasts up to 75 years
• Unique, attractive appearance that adds charm
• Adds significant value to the property
• Natural, eco-friendly materials with good drainage

Cons:

• Very expensive to purchase and install
• Higher maintenance from weeds
• Typically creates an uneven, bumpy surface

Recycled rubber driveway

Recycled rubber driveways, made from recycled tires, are an eco-friendly option. They provide a smooth, slip-resistant surface and are durable. However, they can be expensive and may not suit all aesthetic preferences.

Cost: $6-$8 per square foot

Pros:

• Affordable and eco-friendly, helping to reduce landfill waste
• Slip-resistant surface that requires minimal maintenance
• Handles extreme cold and freeze cycles well

Cons:

• Can be hard to clean
• Limited design options
• May not be good for high-traffic driveways
• Not widely available and requires specialized installation

Recycled glass driveway

Recycled glass driveways use crushed glass mixed with resin to create a colorful, durable surface. They are eco-friendly and offer a unique appearance. However, they can be costly and may require professional installation.

Cost: $9-$18 per square foot

Pros:

• Eco-friendly repurposed glass, helping to reduce landfill waste
• Unique, colorful appearance
• Durable and permeable for wet climates
• More affordable than other driveway options

Cons:

• If not prepared properly, glass edges can be sharp
• Requires professional installation
• Limited availability in some areas

Best driveway materials at a glance

According to HomeAdvisor, here is an at-a-glance list to help you decide which driveway material might be best for your home.

What’s the best budget-friendly driveway material?

The best budget-friendly driveway materials are gravel or tar and chip. These options are economical, but they may require periodic maintenance and replenishment.

What’s the best driveway for seller curb appeal?

The best driveway for curb appeal is brick or stone. These materials offer a classic, elegant look that can significantly enhance your home’s exterior and increase its value.

What’s the best driveway for rain?

The best driveway for rain is often asphalt or recycled glass. These materials are durable and provide good drainage, helping to prevent water buildup and reduce the risk of flooding.

What’s the best driveway for snow and cold?

The best driveway for snow and cold is asphalt or recycled rubber. These materials are flexible enough to withstand freeze/thaw cycles and provide good traction. Heated driveways are also an excellent option, as they prevent snow and ice buildup.

What’s the best driveway for sustainability?

The best driveway for sustainability is made from recycled materials like rubber or glass. Using recycled or sustainably sourced materials reduces waste and environmental impact.

What’s the best driveway for low maintenance?

The best low-maintenance driveway is concrete, resin, or recycled rubber. Among these, concrete has the longest lifespan and highest strength, making it a durable and practical choice.

What’s the best driveway to increase home value?

Materials like brick, stone, or stamped concrete can add significant value to your home due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. Investing in a quality driveway not only improves your home’s appearance but also boosts its market value, making it a worthwhile upgrade for homeowners planning to sell.

A nice driveway can drive sales

Selling? An attractive and well-maintained driveway can make your property stand out in listings and during showings. Buyers often judge a home by its exterior curb appeal, and a high-quality driveway can help set a positive tone from the moment they pull up.

Ready to make your home more appealing to buyers? Connect with a top-rated real estate agent through HomeLight to get expert advice and assistance in preparing your home for sale. Your perfect agent match is just a click away.

Header Image Source: (Imphot / Depositphotos, Point3D Commercial Imaging Ltd. / Unsplash, Jacques Bopp / Unsplash)