When it comes to driveway construction, homeowners typically have two primary material options – gravel or asphalt. Each choice has its distinct advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to weigh them carefully before deciding which one is best for your needs.

Read more as we will offer an in-depth comparison between gravel and asphalt driveways, exploring the pros and cons of each so that you can make an informed decision for your property in this article entitled gravel vs. asphalt driveways.

 

Gravel Driveways

For many years, homeowners have favored gravel driveways for their affordability and ease of installation. Gravel driveways come in various sizes and shapes and can be created with different grades of crushed stone for a smooth, even surface. Some homeowners may prefer a more natural or rustic look and opt to use pea gravel or river rock instead of traditional crushed stone.

Advantages Of Gravel Driveways

1. Affordability – Installing a driveway with gravel is an economical choice, as it requires less money for both materials and labor.
2. Easy Installation – Gravel driveways can be installed without any special equipment or expertise, unlike materials such as asphalt. All that is needed is to level the area, place a layer of geotextile fabric, and cover it with gravel.
3. Low Maintenance – Maintaining gravel driveways is easy; you only need to rake the driveway occasionally to remove any displaced stones, and add more gravel when necessary.
4. Water Drainage – The porosity of gravel facilitates efficient drainage, preventing water from accumulating on the driveway and causing erosion or damage. As a result, the driveway lasts longer.

Disadvantages Of Gravel Driveways

1. Dust And Noise – Gravel driveways have significant drawbacks, as they tend to generate a lot of dust when cars and other automobiles pass through them, causing noise pollution, particularly when larger vehicles are driven over them.
2. Limited Durability – Asphalt driveways are more durable than gravel and do not require as much maintenance, particularly in high traffic areas. Learn how long asphalt driveways last by clicking on this link.
3. Snow Removal – Snow removal can be tricky on a gravel driveway since, unlike with an asphalt driveway, using a snow plow or other mechanical tools isn’t an option.

 

Asphalt Driveways

Homeowners often choose asphalt driveways because they provide a polished appearance and exceptional strength. Asphalt is a mixture of crushed gravel, sand, and a binder that is laid over a well-graded foundation.

Advantages Of Asphalt Driveways

1. Durability – Properly maintained asphalt driveways have the capacity to endure for up to 20 years due to their durability.
2. Low Maintenance – Maintaining the integrity of asphalt driveways is easy, as it only requires periodic sealing and patching with very little additional maintenance.
3. Snow Removal – Asphalt driveways have a major advantage in that they can be easily cleared of snow using a snowplow or other equipment.
4. Smooth Driving Surface – Asphalt is better than gravel because it offers a quiet and dust-free driving experience due to its smooth surface.

Disadvantages Of Asphalt Driveways

1. Higher Cost – Installing an asphalt driveway costs more than installing a gravel driveway, considering the costs of materials and labor.
2. Limited Design Options – There are only two color options available for asphalt driveways: black or grey. Unfortunately, there are not many design options.
3. Repair Cost – Improper maintenance of an asphalt driveway can lead to expensive repairs, or even the need for replacement.

 

Why Hire A Reliable Contractor For The Installation/Maintenance Of Your Gravel Or Asphalt Driveway

Hiring a reliable contractor for the installation or maintenance of your gravel or asphalt driveway is important for several reasons. A professional contractor will have experience in correctly installing and/or maintaining driveways, ensuring that it lasts as long as possible with minimal repair costs.

Additionally, they are familiar with local regulations and codes, and can advise you on the most cost-effective solutions. Finally, hiring a contractor is important for liability purposes, as they are covered by insurance in case anything goes wrong during the installation or maintenance process.

 

Final Thoughts

Overall, the options for driveway materials vary greatly and it can be hard to decide which is best for you and your property. Gravel driveways offer an affordable solution with low maintenance, while asphalt driveways provide superior durability.

Ultimately, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option before making a final decision. In either case, hiring a reliable contractor is essential for proper installation and/or maintenance – ensuring that your driveway will last for many years to come.

If you need help deciding which type of driveway material is best for your needs, call New Braunfels’ trusted paving company, C&T Paving for more information and a free quote. They can provide you with the knowledge and expertise needed to choose the right option for your situation.