Your driveway could be one of your property`s most heavily-trafficked spots, and thus it is a choice that requires due consideration. The perfect material should offer a good compromise between looks, durability, and cost, while fulfilling your home’s style as well as your daily requirements.
For more than 20 years, Set in Stone Paving has been putting in driveways all over Buckinghamshire, Windsor and Berkshire, Wokingham, Aylesbury, and the surrounding areas. Tarmac, resin, and shingle are the three types of surface that we specialize in and have different benefits. Here are comparisons for you to consider while choosing for your own home.
Tarmac – The Classic, Cost-Effective Option
Tarmac, aka asphalt, has long been used and is a great value driveway surface.
Advantages:
● Durable: Daily vehicle use does not subject it to cracks and breakage easily.
● Installation: Because tarmac can be laid very shortly after the sub-base is ready, it is one of the quickest surfaces to install.
● Finish: Clean and uniform.
● Most Preferred for: Homeowners who simply want a functional driveway that is durable and offers an affordable price.
Resin Bound – Modern and Low Maintenance
Natural stone aggregates and a specialized resin binder are combined to create a smooth, ornamental surface in resin-bound surfaces.
Benefits:
● Beautiful Designs: Comes in a variety of colors to match any type of property.
● Seamless Look: Weeds cannot grow through any joints or spaces.
● Low Maintenance: It maintains its fresh appearance with periodic sweeping and washing.
● Permeable Options: Resin-bound systems have the ability to naturally drain water when installed with the proper sub-base.
● Ideal For: Homeowners looking for a high-end, modern finish that requires little maintenance.
Shingle (Gravel) – A Natural Look and Versatility
A shingle driveway has a softer, more rustic look ideal for period homes and rural properties.
Benefits:
Low Cost: Often lower installation cost than other materials.
Good Drainage: Naturally permeable means water can drain easily resulting in less surface water.
Versatility: Available in different sizes, colours, shapes, and types of stone.
Best For: Traditional look, good drainage, environmentally friendly.
Our Process for Installation
Whichever surface, the lifespan of your driveway will depend on the quality of the supporting foundations. At Set in Stone Paving, we will never skimp. All of our projects start with careful excavation, solid sub-base, and drainage management. As a result, you can be assured that your drive will perform as good as it looks.
Looking for a Dropped Kerb Too?
If you require a dropped kerb for your new driveway for vehicle access, we can take care of the planning permission and licence application for only £150. Once the planning has been secured, we will then do the installation to Council standards giving you a fully compliant entrance.
Let’s Find That Surface
With plenty of options to choose from, including classic tarmac, sleek resin or natural shingle, Set in Stone Paving can design and build your driveway just as you need it with the right surface.
Please get in contact for your free site survey anywhere in Buckinghamshire, Windsor and Berkshire, Wokingham, Aylesbury and surrounding areas, and we will design a driveway to complement your home that will last.