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Houston residents wishing to complete a driveway installation project will need to consider the materials they want to use for their new surface. Each material has specific pros and cons that individual homeowners should learn about before committing to one choice. Many factors go into determining an appropriate driveway surface, so it is important for homeowners considering this renovation option to do their homework before moving forward.
This article will cover the many materials Houston residents can use for their driveway, including information on what to consider for each option.
Factors to Consider Before Installation
Before beginning a driveway installation project, it is important for homeowners to think about the following factors:
- Budget. Homeowners should set a set price range that they are able to comfortably spend on their new driveway within the next year or two. Once they have determined the maximum amount of money they can afford, they can begin researching materials and prices in an effort to stay within their budget.
- Ease of care and maintenance. Many homeowners like having different types of materials for different parts of their homes because it allows them to customize each section individually. However, before creating this type of surface, many people forget how much work maintaining separate surfaces might actually be between regular sweeping efforts and pressure washing or waxing sessions once in a while.
- Resale value. If the home is for sale, buyers might be wary of potential problems associated with different types of driveway surfaces. It is important to consider how each type of surface may affect a property's resale value before installation begins.
- Functional needs and desired aesthetic appeal. Some homeowners need more traction on certain areas of their property, while others want a pretty drive leading up to the front door, but not everyone has both driving and aesthetic needs simultaneously. Furthermore, homeowners should consider how their chosen materials will play into the overall look they are going for as part of an entire renovation project or simply as a decorative addition to their garden area or front lawn.
Types of Driveway Materials
There are several different types of driveway materials that Houston residents can choose from. Homeowners might have to do some research on each type before making a final decision on which one will work best for their home and their overall renovation plans. Some popular options are listed below, with information on what to keep in mind when considering them as possible candidates for driveway installation.
Asphalt
Homeowners who are considering an asphalt driveway should know what benefits it can provide them, as well as what issues may arise during the renovation process. Asphalt is relatively inexpensive when compared with other options like stone or concrete construction. The fact that asphalt can be repaired easily after damage occurs is also beneficial for those hoping not to devote too much time or money to maintain the surface of their new driveway.
Benefits of Choosing Asphalt:
- Asphalt is affordable.
- It can be repaired easily after damage occurs.
- It works well for small driveways, as it can be laid in very thin layers.
Drawbacks of Choosing Asphalt:
- It needs regular maintenance to prevent cracks and potholes from forming.
- Exposed aggregate may become slippery during snow or ice events.
Aggregate
In general, aggregate surfaces are not as common in Houston as in other parts of the country. However, it is a viable option for homeowners with longer driveways or those who desire an edgeless look. Aggregate requires regular sweeping and pressure washing to keep it looking good but does not require much in terms of large-scale maintenance.
Benefits of Choosing Aggregate:
- It provides a nicely finished look without needing a concrete border or edging.
- Regular sweeping and pressure washing keeps it looking its best between larger maintenance sessions.
Drawbacks of Choosing Aggregates:
- It may become slippery when wet outside due to exposed aggregate.
Brick & Stone Paving
Another popular installation option that can provide both an aesthetically pleasing surface and the benefits of a well-designed drive is brick or stone paving. The installation process can be expensive, but it provides homeowners with a durable and resistant surface that will last for many years if properly maintained.
Benefits of Choosing Brick or Stone Paving:
- It creates a nice finished look along the perimeter of the driveway area.
- Resistant to weather conditions like snow and ice.
Drawbacks of Choosing Brick or Stone Paving:
- - Installation costs make this option best suited for long driveways with heavy traffic (3 cars or more).
- - If low water pressure exists, obtaining consistent water flow for cleaning may require applying extra energy to irrigation systems in order to get the surface to the desired level of cleanliness.
Concrete
Perhaps one of the most popular choices among homeowners in Houston is concrete construction, which does not require much in terms of regular maintenance in order to keep looking good over time. Asphalt overlays are often applied in order to preserve a driveway after the damage has occurred due to wear and tear or normal weather factors that affect driveways year-round. The installation process for concrete can be lengthy because it requires pouring concrete into forms that must dry before workers remove them. However, homeowners appreciate its look and feel over time, as well as the fact that it can withstand heavy traffic without needing much in terms of repairs or upkeep.
Concrete
Perhaps one of the most popular choices among homeowners in Houston is concrete construction, which does not require much in terms of regular maintenance in order to keep looking good over time. Asphalt overlays are often applied in order to preserve a driveway after the damage has occurred due to wear and tear or normal weather factors that affect driveways year-round. The installation process for concrete can be lengthy because it requires pouring concrete into forms that must dry before workers remove them. However, homeowners appreciate its look and feel over time, as well as the fact that it can withstand heavy traffic without needing much in terms of repairs or upkeep.
Final Thoughts
Whatever surface homeowners choose for their driveway, it is recommended that they research the installation options and talk to trusted companies in order to find the perfect product that fits their daily needs. Driveway materials and costs can vary depending on location and surface type (and other factors). Still, any of these choices represent an excellent option for homeowners who desire a durable and aesthetically-pleasing driveway.