Driveway Surfaces

Q: Is a gravel driveway considered an impervious surface?

Yes they are. While they could technically allow drainage into the soil, most driveways have been highly compacted by vehicles and heat. Therefore, they still prevent the infiltration of rainwater. This results in a stronger flow of water runoff into stormwater drainage than truly pervious surfaces, which can create flooding.

Q: Does it take long for a concrete driveway to dry?

You can usually walk on it within 24–48 hours. For vehicles, driveways are less critical than constructions like house foundations. So you may get away with a minimum of three days. However, seven days may be required in temperatures below 10°C. The concrete should be fully cured after 28 days.

Q: How long does an asphalt driveway last?

The average rule of thumb in New Zealand is that an asphalt driveway will last 20–30 years. Like all surfaces that see regular use from moving vehicles, the surface can crack, wear down and warp. Good maintenance helps extend their lifespan. Concrete driveways also see damage over time.

The garden and landscaping surrounding a residential property can change the entire look and feel of a house, adding significant value and creating engaging, flowing areas for enjoying the outdoors. A large part of many outdoor areas is the driveway, and carefully choosing the best material can help to create a stunning, seamless flow between different zones and unite a variety of hard and soft landscaping materials.

Different types of driveway materials and surfaces

There are several materials that can be used to build a driveway, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Concrete driveways

Concrete is one of the most popular materials for residential driveways, and with a huge variety of colours, finishes and textures available, there is a style of concrete to suit any home. Exposed aggregate concrete driveway is a popular option for many homeowners.

Coloured exposed aggregate driveways are also a popular option with a large range of colours available to create unique finishes and blend in with or juxtapose other landscaping materials. For example, stamped concrete driveways are adopted for their durability and low maintenance

Asphalt driveways and shingle driveways

Asphalt driveways are another popular option, with a more rugged feel. They’re often chosen for large rural properties where a driveway can be a more extensive part of the overall site.

Shingle driveways

Shingle driveways are another coveted option, creating a unique look and feel. Compacted gravel driveways can provide an alternative to concrete, and a more cost-effective solution at the outset. However, these can require significantly more maintenance over time to ensure their integrity remains intact over the years.

Drivable grass pavers and Grass driveways

Drivable grass pavers and grass driveways are eco-friendly alternatives to concrete or asphalt. Drivable grass pavers are grids filled with soil and grass, while grass driveways use reinforced bases with grass growing through. They reduce runoff, promote soil and vegetation growth, and lower urban heat. Maintenance includes mowing, fertilization, and weed control. They may not be suitable for high-traffic areas or harsh winters.

Brick driveways

Brick driveways offer a classic, elegant look to a property. They are durable and can withstand heavy use, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. Bricks come in a variety of colours, shapes, and patterns, allowing for customisation and creativity in design.

Cobblestone driveways

Cobblestone driveways add a touch of rustic charm to any property. Made from small, irregularly shaped stones, cobblestone driveways can provide a unique and visually appealing entrance to your home. One of the benefits of cobblestone driveways is their durability.

Resin bound driveways

Resin driveways are an attractive and practical solution. This type of driveway surfacing is known for its durability, and it can withstand the wear and tear of daily use, as well as exposure to the elements, such as rain, snow, and sunlight. Resin bound driveways are low maintenance and available in a wide range of colours and patterns.

Porcelain driveways

Porcelain driveways are a relatively new type of driveway surface that has been gaining popularity among homeowners in recent years. Made from high-quality porcelain tiles, these driveways offer a number of advantages such as their durability, but also their resistance to damage, making them ideal for use as a driveway surface.

Pebble driveways

Pebble driveways are a popular choice for homeowners looking for an attractive and low-maintenance driveway option. These driveways are made from small, smooth stones, usually ranging from 1/4 inch to 3/4 inch in size, which are laid on top of a solid foundation.

The smooth, rounded stones come in a variety of colours and textures, ranging from soft earth tones to bright and vibrant shades, and can create a distinctive and eye-catching look for a driveway.

Block paving driveways

Block paving driveways are made from small rectangular or square-shaped blocks of concrete, clay, or natural stone, block paving driveways provide a unique and customizable design element for any property.

What is the most popular driveway surface?

Concrete is the most popular driveway surface in New Zealand. For good reason too, as it is very durable and easy to clean. They are also easy to mould into almost any shape, and you can plan the sloping and drainage grates strategically. Concrete driveways last a long time.