Find a Driveway Installer near you
The average rating for Bark Driveway Installers is 4.73, based on 336,819 reviews
5/5
based on 336,819 reviews
A driveway can be a necessity, especially if you live in a place with little on-street parking. That doesn’t mean that it can’t look good. An impressive driveway design is a draw for many people looking to buy a new home, and curb appeal can add instant value to a house’s worth. A driveway can be a beautiful addition, as well as a useful one.
With some creativity, some forethought, and perhaps some sound advice from a fantastic driveway installer, this landscaping feature can be aesthetically pleasing. Find your ideal driveway professional and get advice on how to design a driveway that is going to elevate your home and bring a smile to your face.
While some of the most common options include gravel driveways, concrete driveways, and brick driveways, there are plenty of alternative options if you're looking for something a little different. There are also plenty of cheap driveway ideas perfect for homeowners who are looking for something that won't break the bank!
Let's take a look at some of the most head-turning driveway ideas to elevate that all-important curb appeal.
Ribbon driveways may seem like an old-fashioned method, but they are actually having a come-back. Even small amounts of greenery can add texture and interest to an urban area and can have a benefit to the local wildlife.
Dating from the advent of motor vehicles, ribbon driveways have indeed modernised over time. Two strips of concrete, pavers, or gravel will be supported by an essential base. This is to bear the weight of a vehicle and to avoid sinkage into the surrounding grass. Ribbon driveways then have a strip of something else up the middle, usually a ‘ribbon’ of lawn, but sometimes succulents, wildflowers, clover, or even gridded concrete that allows a little bit of greenery to poke through.
These kinds of driveway suit homes in the countryside, but they can also be a great option for those in the city centre. Ask your driveway contractor what they recommend, and if they have seen or built anything particularly creative. They should be able to show you examples of where they have put beautiful ribbon driveways elsewhere in your area.
A ribbon driveway is also a greener option. By allowing some grasses to grow, it will help local pollinators and other wildlife. Thyme and other hardy perfumed plants are a great addition as they will be crushed by the wheels of the car and by your feet, releasing a welcoming scent into the air.
There are other ways to incorporate greenery into your driveway. A relatively modern method is by putting in some support, and then allowing grass to grow up around the grid of a driveway. This kind of grass driveway offers the best of both worlds, support for the vehicle and greenery for the wildlife and aesthetic quality.
Grids built with recycled plastic are a carbon-neutral option. These are UV and frost-resistant, so you know they will last.
There are a couple of drawbacks to this kind of driveway, of course, so it’s best saved for those who have the time and inclination to adhere to a few basics. Any grass will need to be trimmed, especially if a car is to be driven over it; long grasses can cause damage to expensive vehicles.
Another consideration is that these are not suitable for very heavy vehicles. If you are planning to keep a motorhome or work van on this driveway, you may be better off opting for a sturdier material. There are still some lovely-looking options that are good for the environment. Speak to your driveway installer about your concerns and requirements.
Finally, something very simple that can be done to add interest, beauty, and even to cut down on costs, is mixing materials. This can be as easy as a brick border and a gravel filling. This sort of mixing is a trick for the savvy, as it gives the eye something to hold onto.
Other kinds of mixing are: block paving designs laid in interesting combinations; river stones laid in concentric circles; even mosaic borders might be an option. Think about the exterior of your home: the era of the build, the colours you have on the outside, and the feel are all important considerations when deciding on what kind of driveway to opt for. For more paving ideas, you can contact local paving contractors on Bark.
By mixing the materials, you may also be able to scratch that creative itch. Building a driveway to your own design and tastes is going to give you a thrill every time you park your car on it, and visitors are sure to love something a little bit quirky, too.
Wondering how much you'll pay for a brand new driveway? Check out our handy price guide to find out driveway installers charge for their services based on the material you opt for, your location, and additional features.
Traditional driveways including asphalt, concrete, and gravel aren’t the only options. In the 21st century, there are ample driveway designs to help the environment and build something beautiful that will enhance your house’s curb appeal without breaking the bank. In many cases, these are wallet-friendly options and are creative solutions worth considering.
Give your driveway installer a call and see what they suggest. You may be surprised by the options and the ways in which you can add something to your household that is both functional and beautiful. If you're looking for driveway ideas on a budget, you'll be happy to know that there are many low-cost driveway options that will still maintain their longevity and aesthetic appeal. Simply ask your driveway contractor to advise you on the best option for your taste and budget!
Find driveway companies near you on Bark to turn your design dream into a reality.
The average rating for Bark Driveway Installers is 4.73, based on 336,819 reviews
5/5
based on 336,819 reviews
Want your dream driveway but not sure of the cost? Read our handy guide to find out how much your expert will charge for concrete installation, block paving and more - you’ll have your neighbours green with envy in no time!
