Types of Paver Driveways
By ProMatcher Staff
Driveway Paver Installation
Paver driveways are a unique alternative to asphalt or poured concrete. Although paver driveways are more expensive, they tend to last longer and require less maintenance over the life of the driveway.
Concrete Paver Driveway:
Cost: Somewhat Affordable
The Good:
- Durable
- More affordable
- Easy to repair
- Low maintenance
- Wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes
The Bad:
- Can move over time
- Shorter life expectancy than stone pavers
- Some look like imitations
- Weed growth in joints
The Bottom Line: A concrete paver driveway can be an eco-friendly alternative to an asphalt driveway. Many concrete pavers are permeable and will allow water to pass through the surface and into the soil, rather than flooding the driveway. Concrete pavers are affordable, but will still cost significantly more than an asphalt driveway. However, lower maintenance costs over the life of the driveway will help offset this high initial cost. If a paver cracks or breaks, it can easily be replaced with another without affecting the surrounding area. Pavers come in many different colors, shapes, and sizes that can be used to create a wide array of designs and patterns. However, the pavers will fade over time unlike brick or stone.
Brick Paver Driveway:
Cost: More expensive
The Good:
- Durable, strong
- Curb appeal; adds value to a home
- Can be mortared or dry-set
- If mortared, will not shift
- Color retention
- Will last 25+ years
The Bad:
- More limited color choices
- Moss and weed growth
- Bricks can be difficult to cut
- Dry-set bricks may shift over time
The Bottom Line: Installing a brick paver driveway will add value (and curb appeal) to your home. These driveways require minimal maintenance, but the initial cost can be steep. In some cases, a professional bricklayer or mason may need to install the driveway, which will come at an additional cost. Over time, moss may begin to accumulate on the brick surface in shady, moist areas. This can usually be removed with ease. Bricks are more difficult to cut than other pavers so there may be less design flexibility to create unique patterns or curves.
Stone Paver Driveway:
Cost: Very Expensive
The Good:
- Very durable
- Can withstand any weather
- Adds value to any home
- Long-lasting
- Granite cobblestones will not stain
- Many shapes and colors available
The Bad:
- Very expensive
- Installation by stonemason will add to cost
- Limestone and sandstone pavers will stain
- Natural stones will vary in size and color
The Bottom Line: A stone paver driveway is one of the most durable driveways you can install. If properly maintained and built on a solid foundation, it will last over 100 years. As expected, this will come at a cost. A stone paver driveway is likely the most expensive option. However, it requires very little maintenance, can deal with any type of weather, and will add significant value to your home.
Up Next:
+ Concrete Paver Driveway Installation Cost
+ Free Quotes from Driveway Contractors
About the Author
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| ProMatcher Staff, ProMatcher
Orlando, FL 32803
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