Considering that the kitchen is the heart of the home, homeowners often spend exorbitant amounts on renovating their kitchens, and understandably so. Though, this means that they often have to cut corners somewhere else leaving them with the challenge of finding practical solutions on a shoestring budget.
One such area that’s often last in line (even though it’s the first element that you see and interact with) is the humble driveway. To help you spruce up your driveway, here are six practical ideas that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. With a little bit of elbow grease, some of these ideas might even be a DIY project.
If you want to learn more about concrete driveways, check out our resources:
1. How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost
2. Asphalt vs Concrete Driveways: Why Concrete Is Often the Better Choice
3. How Long Does It Take for Driveway Sealant to Dry?
4. Concrete Driveway Installation
5. What Are The Most Common Types of Concrete Driveways?
6. Modern Concrete Driveway Ideas
6 Cost-effective driveway ideas
While you can opt for colored brickwork for your driveway, the delivery and installation will work out more expensive than other driveway solutions. For example, the cost of plain concrete starts at only $50 per square meter. Let’s take a look at the most popular ways that you can explore without breaking the bank.
1. Crushed concrete driveway
When a concrete contractor has to replace old concrete slabs, the old concrete can be crushed and sold as recycled material. This crushed concrete can then be used for a driveway project. Not only is it very cost-effective, but it’s also environmentally friendly. However, it offers limited styling options. Also, if you need a smooth finish, this solution won’t work for you.
2. Wood chips
For homeowners with limited money to spend on a driveway, wood chips can be an answer. You might even be able to find them for free. That said, it’s not nearly as long-lasting as a concrete pathway. As wood chips are organic, they’ll biodegrade as time passes. This means that you’ll need to top up the wood chips from time to time. So, what you have saved initially in terms of money could end up costing you a lot in time and labor.
3. Asphalt
Asphalt is one of the most popular materials used in the construction of driveways. Most of the time it’s more affordable than concrete, but concrete lasts longer (about twice as long, in fact). Also, unlike concrete, it needs to be resealed about every five years. However, if you’re fine with the few design options available and having to reseal it every couple of years, it can be a good choice for a driveway.
Can’t decide between a concrete or asphalt driveway? Click here for our comparison article.
4. Concrete driveway pavers
Concrete driveway pavers offer both flexibility as well as durability. They’re made from aggregates and cement that get mixed at a specific ratio to get the needed level of strength required for a driveway. As these pavers are installed one paver at a time, contraction and expansion are accounted for, making it an ideal choice for Australia’s extreme weather.
Also, there are different shapes and shades available for a customized finish if you’re interested in a slightly more unique driveway. You can, for example, also add a design or pattern in the middle of the driveway for even more curb appeal.
5. Permeable Driveway
If water is an issue and you’re concerned that your new driveway might get waterlogged, be sure to explore the idea of a permeable driveway. In short, you can get this effect by placing concrete pavers strategically so that there are small openings between the pavers. This way, water can soak into the ground via these cracks to prevent the driveway from becoming waterlogged.
An alternative is to opt for porous concrete (a mixture of concrete and stones). It looks and feels almost like concrete but is permeable to water and kinder to the environment. Though one drawback is that it requires more maintenance. You’ll need to prevent sediment from gathering in the pores otherwise you could just find yourself having to replace your driveway.
6. Plain concrete driveway
At the end of the day, concrete driveways remain one of the most common and popular driveway options, especially when your goal is to find a permanent solution. They’re durable, long-lasting and easy to clean. It’s a great choice if you’re searching for a natural, yet appealing, look.
Why should you spend some money on your driveway?
A renovated driveway can offer a number of benefits. Not only does it increase the functionality of your property, but it can also increase its value.
Parking is a common issue that homeowners face. If you take care of your driveway, it will take care of your parking needs. In addition to supporting the weight of the wear and tear from cars, it will also offer a surface to walk or play on.
Fancy an informal game of tennis? With a little bit of imagination, your concrete driveway can be turned into your very own Rod Laver Arena for the afternoon.
Even if it’s not entirely a match to Rod Laver Arena, a well-looked-after driveway still plays a huge role in creating great first impressions. The exterior is the first thing that people notice and sprucing up your driveway will ensure that others take notice whenever they drive past.
Time to renovate your driveway for maximum curb appeal at minimum cost?
From plain concrete driveways to coloured concrete to pave cut concrete, there are many different ideas that you can explore when it’s time to renovate your driveway. You don’t necessarily need to spend a small fortune to give your driveway a new, sophisticated look.
There’s no reason why a simple solution can’t be visually appealing too. For high-quality driveways at a reasonable price, be sure to contact Concept Concrete in Melbourne at 1300 366 343 and let’s explore all driveway options with you. Founded 10 years ago, the Concept Concrete team specializes in architectural concrete and formwork design that include concrete driveways and pave cut concrete.
Need landscaping advice too? We also offer a wide range of extra services that include building advice, construction and landscaping.
