Harvest Paving and Landscapes Ltd
When planning a new driveway, one of the first steps is choosing the right surface. With so many different driveway types available, it can be challenging to decide which option will look best, perform well and suit your budget. As a trusted paving company in Colchester, we install a wide range of driveway types, offering durable and stylish finishes tailored to every home.
In this guide, we look at the most popular materials, their benefits, and some cost-effective options to help you choose the right driveway for your property.
Different Types of Driveways
When it comes to choosing the best surface for your home, there are many different driveway types that each offer unique benefits. From classic gravel to modern resin, every option has its own strengths in terms of materials, style and cost. Below, we explore the most popular types of driveway surfaces to help you make the right choice.
1. Block Paving Driveways
Block paving remains one of the most popular types of driveways. Block paving uses individual bricks laid in patterns. These blocks are strong, durable and can be replaced individually if any damage occurs.
Style:
Block paving is highly versatile, available in a wide range of colours, shapes and designs. Homeowners can create custom patterns, borders or even combine different shades for a unique finish.
Inexpensive Option:
While some decorative designs can be costly, simple layouts using standard blocks are a more affordable way to enjoy the benefits of block paving.
Benefits:
- Long-lasting and hard-wearing
- Wide choice of colours, shapes and designs
- Easy to repair by replacing individual blocks
Block paving adds real kerb appeal and complements patios, paths and garden landscaping.
2. Resin Bound Driveways
Resin driveways are a modern choice, creating a smooth and seamless finish. Small stones are set in resin, producing a surface that is durable and permeable.
Style:
Resin is a modern option, available in a wide choice of stone blends and colours. Its sleek finish suits contemporary homes, giving a clean, high-quality appearance.
Inexpensive Option:
Resin driveways are more expensive than gravel or tarmac, but they offer long-term value due to their low maintenance and extended lifespan. Choosing a smaller area or a simple colour blend can help manage the budget.
Benefits:
- Low maintenance and resistant to weeds
- UV-stable, with colours that stay bright
- Wide choice of stone blends and finishes
- Permeable, helping water drain naturally
Resin driveways are ideal for homeowners seeking a clean, contemporary appearance with excellent performance.
3. Gravel Driveways
For a more inexpensive driveway, gravel offers a practical and traditional option. Loose stones are spread over a prepared base, creating a rustic surface that suits many property styles.
Style:
Gravel provides a traditional and rustic look, making it a popular choice for rural and period homes. The crunching sound underfoot also adds a sense of charm and security.
Inexpensive Option:
Gravel is one of the most cost-effective driveway types. It’s quick to install and easy to refresh by topping up with new stones when needed.
Benefits:
- One of the most affordable driveway types
- Quick installation
- Good drainage
- Natural look that suits larger areas
Gravel requires occasional raking and topping up, but it remains one of the most cost-effective choices.
4. Tarmac Driveways
Tarmac driveways are a tried-and-tested option, valued for their strength and smooth finish. It is widely used for both domestic and commercial properties.
Style:
Tarmac driveways deliver a clean and simple finish. While often chosen in classic black, edging with block paving can add style and definition.
Inexpensive Option:
Tarmac is a cost-effective material compared to resin or decorative block paving. It is quick to install and remains one of the most affordable options for homeowners.
Benefits:
- Affordable and quick to lay
- Strong and weather-resistant
- Clean, smooth surface
Tarmac is an excellent option for homeowners who want a straightforward, durable driveway without a high cost.
5. Concrete Driveways
Concrete is a solid, long-lasting surface that can be left plain or finished with colour and decorative patterns.
Style:
Plain concrete gives a simple, functional look, but it can also be coloured or stamped to resemble stone or brick for a more stylish finish.
Inexpensive Option:
Basic concrete driveways are affordable considering their long lifespan. While decorative finishes add cost, plain concrete offers excellent durability at a reasonable price.
Benefits:
- Very durable with a long life span
- Versatile, with both plain and decorative options
- Low maintenance once installed
Concrete is a strong choice for those who want a driveway that will last for many years with minimal upkeep.
Choosing the Right Driveway
The best driveway for your home depends on your budget, the look you want to achieve, the level of maintenance you are comfortable with and the local weather conditions.
- For a stylish and versatile design, consider block paving or resin.
- For a budget-friendly surface, gravel and tarmac are cost-effective.
- For strength and long-term durability, concrete and resin perform very well, even in the rainy weathers.
Conclusion
Each driveway type has its own advantages when it comes to materials, style, and cost. Gravel and tarmac are ideal if you’re working to a budget, block paving and resin provide stylish customisation, and concrete offers durability for the long term.
At Harvest Paving & Landscapes, we help homeowners in Colchester and across Essex choose the right driveway to suit their property and budget. Contact us today for a free site survey and quotation. You can also view our recent projects in the gallery.
FAQs
What are the cheapest driveway types?
Gravel and tarmac are generally the most cost-effective options in the UK.
Do I need planning permission for a new driveway?
If the surface is non-permeable and larger than 5m², permission may be required. Permeable driveways, such as resin and gravel, usually do not need planning consent.
Can driveways be customised?
Yes, materials such as block paving and resin can be laid in a wide range of colours, styles and finishes to suit your home.