You use your driveway almost every day, but do you ever stop to think about its design? Yes, it’s true, even your driveway can now be designed to reflect your personal style. More than simple driveway paving and driveway sealing can be done to spruce up your asphalt driveway this spring. Updating your driveway will not only make your home more inviting but also improves its curb appeal and overall value. Read on to learn more about 5 decorative ways to design a driveway that you will love.
Before You Get Started
Before you can get started on the decorative design of your driveway, you’ll need to pay attention if you need asphalt driveway repairs first. Take a quick read of this article to find out if you need to invest in asphalt filler before you get started. It’s better to know what needs to be repaired before you get started on something new.
1. Add Colour
Your driveway is like the welcome mat to your home, it greets your guests and tells your neighbours a little bit about you even if you haven’t met them yet. To create a visually appealing driveway that stands out or matches your home, you should consider adding colour to your asphalt driveway. If you plan to repave your driveway soon, this is the perfect time to consider adding colour. There are many benefits to adding colour to your driveway aside from aesthetics. Coloured driveways retain less heat than black ones, are easier to maintain, and can increase safety. Speak to a paving pro about adding colour to your driveway to make it pop.
2. Change the Shape
If you have the space for it, why not change the shape of your driveway? For example, creating a circular driveway will give your home a grand entrance and make it feel like a hotel or resort. Besides looking great, circular driveways also help to improve the flow of traffic and make it easier for you and your guests to pull up and pull out of your driveway. If circular isn’t the right shape for you, speak to a paving expert about alternative shapes that can change the design of your driveway.
3. Leave Your Mark
While an asphalt driveway is the most affordable option, many homeowners want the look of expensive stone, slate or brick. Did you know that this look can be achieved at a more affordable price using stamped asphalt? By opting for stamped asphalt, you can add a pattern resembling stones or bricks at a fraction of the cost. This way you will get the look of a different material while still retaining the benefits of asphalt. Consider a stamped asphalt driveway as an alternative to stone, brick or slate.
4. Mix Up Materials
Put nicely, a pure asphalt driveway can look boring. To stop confusing the driveway to your home with a common tarmac, you can mix up the materials used in its design. For example, you can line the sides of your asphalt driveway with beautiful stones or bricks in an intricate pattern. Or you can add shrubs and greenery into the design. This will help add dimension and visual interest to your driveway. Connect with a stone paver or ask your driveway contractor about incorporating other materials into your driveway design.
5. Warm It Up
While you won’t be able to see this design immediately you will be able to feel it. Adding inground heating to your driveway is a great idea for Canadians who live in particularly snowy areas. By installing heated coils underneath your driveway, you will be able to melt away snow without all the shovelling! Not only will this help to maintain your driveway but it will also make your life easier. Your neighbours will be jealous that you are the only house on the block with a clear driveway that reveals the beautiful design underneath.
Cost to Pave Driveway
Now that you’re inspired, you’re probably wondering what the cost to pave a driveway is. Here’s a list of a basic cost breakdown of residential paving projects across Canada:
Whether you go for colourful, patterned, or mixed materials, there is a driveway design that is perfect for your home. Think about your lifestyle and which design would work best for you. If you’re unsure you can always speak to a paving company for ideas. Or, if you’re ready to get started, connect with a local, community-reviewed pro on HomeStars and get a quote for your project. The sooner you start, the sooner you will drive home to a beautifully designed driveway.
