Driveway Decisions: Gravel or Paving?

For many drivers returning from a long commute, the soft crunch of tyre against gravel is the sound of home. Your journey is over, you can relax. Gravel is a good material for most driveways, but you might be better off with paving. We answer a few questions we’re often asked about the suitability of both types of surface.

Driveway Gravel

What is gravel? 

Gravel is comprised of small stones and comes in many different sizes, colours and mixes of stone. It can come with the fines (smaller grit and sand) washed off or left in.   

What are the benefits of gravel?

Gravel is usually cheaper than other driveway options. You can choose stones that complement the colour of the brickwork of your house. The familiar ‘crunch’ sound of footsteps on gravel can let you know someone is approaching your home.

What kind of maintenance do gravel driveways need?

On sloping driveways gravel can wash downhill and may require regular raking to keep an even covering. One way to combat this is to use self-binding gravel (gravel with a higher concentration of fines) that will gradually compact down to form a hard surface. Every few years, gravel will need resurfacing. This usually means adding more gravel as the lower level beds down.

Driveway Paving

What is paving?

Paving can be comprised of bricks, natural stone or concrete slabs. We lay a concrete base, then lay your choice of paving material to form an even driveway that will easily support the weight of a vehicle and will drain water away from your property.

What are the benefits of paving?

Having a solid surface that requires precious little maintenance can be a relief, especially if you have got used to ugly weeds springing up in your driveway. Paving improves the look of a property and increases its value. You can choose colours that complement your home’s architecture.

What kind of maintenance do paved driveways need?

Paved driveways can look good for years, but like every kind of paving, they will be subject to wear and tear. Slabs can come loose, or weeds can spring up. A thorough clean and new sand will have it looking as good as new.

Your driveway is the first thing that your guests notice when they come to your home. An attractive new driveway adds value to your home – and when you choose Knights Paving & Landscaping to do the work, it comes with an insurance-backed guarantee, so you know it’ll look great for years to come. Call Knight’s Paving and Landscaping on 01603 360548 and we’ll discuss how we can improve your driveway within your budget.

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