Driveway Inspiration

Posted on 20th February 2020

Broken slabs, overgrown lawns, towering weeds, bunches of leaves and rubbish blown in from the wind, are all elements that lower a property’s kerb appeal. Your driveway is not just for parking but it is an extension of your home that completes the overall look. Guests will walk up your driveway to be welcomed into your home, the postman will use it when delivering your post and more importantly, you will use it. It’s likely that you will be using your driveway every day so it’s incredibly important to keep it in tip-top condition to prevent trips and falls, damages to car tyres and to maintain a lovely overall presentation.

Types of driveways

Traditional block paving driveways

Block paving is very versatile, aesthetically pleasing and is known for its multiple benefits. Block paving has low maintenance qualities and only demands few and far between tendings. It is environmentally sustainable, thanks to its porous qualities, and it will stand the test of time as it is a durable material.

All block paving requires is a sweep with a broom and the addition of soapy water. Alternatively, a pressure washer can offer the same results and more quickly. Be sure to take a look at the joints in your block paving to see if it requires re-sanding.

Most popular block paving driveway patterns

• Basketweave
• Herringbone
• Stretcher bond

 

Sandstone paving driveways

Sandstone driveways add a touch of colour to the outside of your home, from pink to yellow you can brighten up your property, even on a cloudy day. Although sandstone sounds like an expensive choice, it is one of the more affordable driveway options. What’s more, sandstone is very durable, as it contains plenty of quartz, which means it’s an ideal candidate for driveways that have cars and people toing and froing.

Most popular sandstone paving driveway patterns

• Stretcher course
• Extended herringbone
• Basketweave

 

Natural stone paving driveways

Each and every stone paving slab on your driveway will have its own colouring and pattern, which gives a nice marble-effect, adding depth and character to your home’s exterior. Natural stone pavers have a luxurious finish but come at an affordable price, they can also add value to your home and increase kerb appeal – an ideal way to spruce up your home if you’re looking to sell.
If you’re conscious of your carbon footprint, stone pavers are the most sustainable choice for you because they’re renewable. This type of driveway is the most carbon-footprint friendly as the stone is recyclable and can be crushed and turned back into aggregates.

Most popular natural stone paving driveway patterns

• Whirling square
• Running bond
• Diamond
• Rosette

 

Shingle driveways

Shingle driveways are quick and simple to install, particularly if you’re looking to cover your entire driveway in shingles. If you just want small sections of shingle, they can be sectioned off to create spiral patterns and pathways – which are just as easy to maintain as a driveway covered in shingle.

Shingle driveways are incredibly attractive because every individual stone has a mixture of different colours and they range in shape and size too, meaning that no two shingle driveways will ever be the same. As shingle is loose, it may require a top-up every other year to ensure full coverage.

Most popular shingle driveway patterns

• Spirals
• Pathways
• Freeform

Unsure what will compliment your home’s exterior? Speak to the landscaping experts at Harpenden Block Paving for help and advice about a new driveway installation. With decades worth of experience within the industry, you can put your trust in us to provide a comprehensive service. Call today to arrange your free survey and site quotation.