Homeowners often want to upgrade or install a new driveway surface. There are a number of different options to select from these days. Concrete poured driveways were typically seen in most residential neighborhoods a few decades ago. In recent years, various paver driveways have become very popular with a good deal of homeowners. There are some factors and differences to consider before making a final decision. It is best for homeowners to research the pros and cons of both options before making that final decision. A number of things often come up in a comparison of paver driveways versus traditional concrete ones.
Which Type of Driveway Surface Material is Cheaper?
In general, a poured traditional concrete driveway will be significantly cheaper than newer paver driveway surface material. The cost ranges for a concrete surface drive will run around $3 to $5 per square foot. Paver driveways, on the other hand, will cost approximately $5 to $15 per square foot in the lower estimated cost line up to $12 to $23 per square footage on the higher end of the cost spectrum.
It is important to realize that homeowners will be paying more for the installation of paver material surfaces due to the need for more skilled and intense labor costs. Other factors that affect the actual costs of these two items is the current overall cost of living in the area where the driveway will be installed.
What Are Some Differences & Advantages of a Paver Driveway?
Paver style driveway surfaces have become attractive to many more homeowners in the last several years. There are some terrific advantages of installing paver surface materials rather than the standard concrete versions seen in the past. One is that paver surfaces are not so easy to crack when the weather changes and over time. Newer concrete driveways can be installed that have a realistic concrete stamping pattern that many homeowners prefer.
The concrete stamped versions of driveway surfacing can be damaged by the use of road salt when conditions turn icy during the colder months. Additionally, this type of surface needs to be sealed annually in most cases to retain the protective qualities over time. Interlocking stone or concrete paver surfaces are designed to be tougher and do not need as much maintenance to keep their good looks and structure.
Additionally, paver surfaces do not need a curing time period like traditional poured concrete and most asphalt surfaces require. Paver driveways are ready to be used right away making them a convenient and often more cost-effective choice when considering upkeep and maintenance savings longer term. This surface material usually provides better surface traction and shouldn’t need to be replaced if cared for properly. Paving stones are considered stronger and provide an attractive aesthetic. New driveways and entryway doors can increase a property’s curb appeal. If a problem does occur, only the problem portion will need repaired rather than resurfacing the entire driveway as concrete requires.
Some Additional Pros & Cons Between Paver Driveways & Poured Concrete Options
Like most anything, there are both pros and cons between paver driveway surfaces and standard poured concrete styles. While the initial installation of paver driveways can be more expensive, the long term durability and lowered to no maintenance and upkeep requirements tends to even out those costs with time. Most homeowners prefer either a stamped concrete or paver style surface for their driveways, patios and other outdoor surfaces. Both offer several styles, patterns, colors, and other options. Many homeowners like the end result of paver surface driveways as the surface retains its new look for added benefits.
Traditional concrete driveways that are poured are cheaper if you need a new driveway quickly and do not want to invest more money. Homeowners often begin with a concrete drive and upgrade later when their finances are in better shape. Homeowners should keep in mind that concrete expands and contracts with extreme temperature changes. This can cause cracks, and if not properly kept sealed and in good repair, the entire driveway will need to be redone to fix these types of issues. For colder climates, paver driveway and outdoor walking surfaces are often a better option if the homeowner does not want to spend the time, effort and money on upkeep and repair through the years.
The beauty of paver styled driveway surfacing material is easy to see, and these materials come in a myriad of various colors, patterns, textured surfaces, and design styles to match any type of architectural style and consumer preferences. Some of the better stamped concrete surfaces offer more options too, but the stamped concrete can often cost near the same amount as paver driveway surfaces.
Homeowners are advised to do some research and shop around in their local area to get a better idea of what is available in these two styles of surfacing materials. Many contractors offer special deals throughout the year that homeowners can take advantage of. Many paver contractors offer longer and sometimes lifetime warranties on their work that makes a big difference to many homeowners. Whichever version that a homeowner ultimately decides on, a beautiful new driveway can transform your property instantly. This is a recommended project if planning to sell your home sometime in the near future.
Along with providing gorgeous driveway surfaces, these two material choices are available to upgrade patios, walkways and other outdoor surfaces.
