Driveways are often overlooked when it comes to home construction but they’re one of the first aesthetic components of your home that your visitors will notice. Your driveway material can have a significant impact on the way it looks as well as its durability and function. Here’s what you should know about gravel and asphalt driveways:
Gravel Driveways
These types of driveways are made from crushed stone and come in a variety of colors. Gravel is one of the most affordable surface material options available, especially if you have a home with a long driveway. Gravel is also easy to maintain and has an easy installation process, making your driveway ready to use in around a week.
On the other hand, snow and ice can have a negative impact on a gravel driveway, and can be difficult to remove. Likewise, if your driveway sees a lot of use, it could develop ruts over time. Ruts and gaps will need to be refilled with gravel to keep the area smooth and looking good.
Asphalt Driveways
Asphalt is another economical driveway material choice, and acts similar to a concrete surface. Since asphalt is a petroleum product, this means it’s flexible in more extreme weather and ground conditions. It also has a long lifespan of around 10-30 years if you take care of it.
With asphalt driveways, there is some required maintenance including power washing to remove any debris as well as using a sealant every few years to keep it in good shape. Asphalt can also be damaged in extreme heat, and is limited in terms of style options.
At Forest Masonry & Paving, we provide superior masonry and asphalt services across New Jersey. We offer a wide selection of commercial or residential asphalt, concrete, or paver projects! Contact us today to get your free quote and learn more about our services.