Pavers are one of the most aesthetically appealing options when it comes to driveway material choices. They add texture and dimension while being robust and strong and if you are considering them for your driveway, you've come to the right place because, in this post, we'll share everything you need to know when choosing the right pavers for your driveway.
A driveway will be subject to heavy loads so it is integral that your paver choice can tolerate the weight it is exposed to. At a minimum, your paver should be at least 50mm thick, any less than this and they may crack under the pressure of vehicles driving and parking on them.
There are typically regulations in place when it comes to altering your driveway so before starting any work, check with your local council first to see if you need a permit or not. This can save you a fine.
To ensure longevity, the pattern you lay your pavers should be factored in. This is especially true if your driveway slopes in any way. Interlocking patterns will ensure that your pavers don’t shift when the weight of a car drives over them.
Most pavers are suitable for a driveway application given that they are the right thickness. Here are our top picks:
Exposed aggregate pavers are among the most popular options for driveways, and for good reason. Concrete pavers are extremely robust, resilient, and long-lasting. They are formulated using a combination of concrete and aggregate. A thin layer of the surface is removed to expose the aggregate in the paver and this is what gives it its attractive and distinctive appearance. These pavers are simple to install and don’t need much upkeep, sealing them can extend their lifespan even further.
Exposed aggregate paver’s adaptability is one of its many benefits. It’s readily available in a broad range of hues, forms, and dimensions, enabling you to find the perfect aggregate for your driveway that will complement your house. Exposed aggregate pavers typically come in pleasant, neutral shades that go well with virtually any home design since their colouring is derived from natural rock and minerals. This paver is soft underfoot yet offers a superior grip. Due to the speckled appearance of this paver, it hides dirt and imperfections very well.
Travertine is a type of natural stone and it is incredibly tough even when exposed to extreme weather, making it a durable choice. Its varying textural surface is smooth and soft underfoot yet slip-resistant. Due to its density, it tolerates driveway conditions well. It is a classy choice that makes a great addition to any outdoor space, driveways included.
The main colour that travertine comes in is ivory/cream however it does come in a variety of colours though these may not be as easily accessible. In addition to various colours, it comes in many patterns and styles, allowing you to find the perfect style for your driveway design. Travertine is naturally very porous so if you do choose this paver type, it is strongly recommended that you seal your driveway with a high-quality impregnating sealer. This will make cleaning your driveway much easier and will prevent stains from permeating into the deeper layers of the stone making them extremely difficult to remove. Not only that, they can irreversibly damage the integrity of the stone.
Cobblestones are charming, adaptable, and a traditional pavement material. Cobblestones are captivating material for your driveway and they boast an authentic old-world European feel and have exceptional density and traction.
A leading choice for steep driveways, cobblestones can be constructed from various stones including granite, quartzite, or bluestone. You’ll find cobblestones brimming the streets and pathways in many parts of Europe and they come in a variety of layouts. Cobblestones are known for their small, uniform square pieces. Some popular patterns include brick, herringbone, fan and straight. Using cobblestones for your driveway is a great way to create impact and add a textural and elegant element to your facade.
They come in an array of colour options and virtually every paver colour you can think of; even mixed tones! Cobblestone pavers usually come in sheets and the small pavers are adhered to a mesh to make installing them simplistic and far quicker than if you were to install them each individually. It also takes the stress out of laying the pavers in the correct pattern as it’s already done for you, you just place one sheet in front of another.
Due to its remarkable durability and inherent hardness, limestone is a preferred paving material for outdoor spaces. Limestone pavers are ideal for pool surrounds, verandas, courtyards, and driveways and it comes in a range of colours such as creams and greys. Limestone pavers with a thickness of 50 mm or more are a great option for driveways. They are suitable for high-traffic areas as they are less likely to crack, chip, or shatter under the pressure. The surface and smooth texture of limestone pavers make them suitable for use in expansive driveways.
Limestone is a fantastic insulator meaning it doesn’t get too hot in the summer and doesn’t usually get very chilly in the winter. There’s not much to dislike like about this stunning stone.
The surface is straightforward to clean, and it has been used in construction for centuries. Limestone driveways can be cleaned using a garden hose and more stubborn spots can be removed using soapy water. To preserve the lifespan of your limestone, you should seal your driveway every 3 to 5 years using an appropriate sealer. This is quick and easy to do and should be done as soon as they are installed.
No matter which pavers you choose, all mentioned above are fantastic options. They are attractive, long-lasting and tolerant to high-traffic areas such as a driveway. If you would like some friendly advice about installing driveway pavers, contact the expert team at Bonita Stone. We have some exceptional driveway paver choices that are sure to suit your budget and style preferences.
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