5 Popular Types of Driveway

Planning to give your driveway a facelift but struggling to decide which material and look to go for? Read on as we break down 5 of the UK’s most popular types of driveway, including their key pros and cons, to help you pick the perfect driveway option for your property.

Top-rated driveway options

1. Block paving

Pieced together from individual bricks or cobbles, block paving is an aesthetically-pleasing and highly durable driveway option. The blocks used tend to be rectangular and their small size means they can be arranged in a number of different ways. For this reason, block paved driveways are perfect for anyone looking to create a highly a customised finish. From sleek geometric lines to curved edges and intricate basket weave patterns, the choice is endless!

Better still, as each block is a standalone piece, you can easily replace any that become damaged or stained over time, without having to redo the whole driveway. However, it’s unlikely that you’ll need to, as block paved driveways are designed to last 20 years or more.

At AWBS, we stock a range of block paving by leading brands. Our Brett Omega paving blocks are particularly popular, offering a timeless look and a choice of 8 different colours to suit your property. Alternatively, our Brett Lugano block packs feature a lovely granite effect in a variety of sizes with a textured shot-blasted finish - ideal for adding charm to your drive. We also supply complementary kerb stones to secure the blocks in place and complete the look.

One thing to bear in mind with block paving is its permeability. Traditionally, tightly packed block paved driveways aren’t very permeable, so standing water can collect on the surface. However, since 2008, all drives over 5sq metres must be permeable. With that in mind, we now supply Brett Omega Flow block paving too. Shaped to allow water to run off and drain through sand-filled gaps between each block, you won’t need to add any extra drainage.

2. Gravel

If you’re looking for attractive driveways on a budget, gravel could be a great option for you. Suitable for both classic and contemporary homes, gravel driveways are essentially made up of lots of small loose stones laid on top of a permeable sub-base for drainage.

Gravel is available in various colours and textures and won’t crack in freezing temperatures. It’s also considerably cheaper than block paving and much quicker to lay, especially over large areas. Looking to enhance the security of your property as well as its kerb appeal? Due to the noise made when walked or driven on, gravel drives will deter any trespassers.

Though relatively low maintenance, your gravel may need topping up periodically to fill in gaps as it moves. The only real downside is that gravel isn’t generally suitable for sloping driveways. But this issue can be remedied with TDP PorousPave, but you can read more about this in point 5!

Whatever look you’re going for, we have 14 types of driveway gravel to choose from, including neutral browns, multi-tonal mixes and striking black granite options. Our locally sourced hard-wearing 20mm Oxford gravel is a popular choice for both its value and lovely golden appearance.

Bulk bags are ideal for large drives or you can get 5 smaller bags for the price of 4. Not sure how much you need? Use our handy Gravel Calculator to get an estimate. We also have a range of stylish edging options to keep back weeds and stop gravel spilling onto your lawn and beds. From rustic stones for traditional homes to pretty scalloped edging, we’ve something for everyone.

3. Tarmac

Asphalt, often referred to by the brand name Tarmac, is another affordable driveway option. This high-strength material is the same as that used on most UK roads and it can therefore withstand high traffic levels.

Known for its smooth and simple finish, Tarmac is best suited to contemporary homes where practicality is the priority. However, attractive kerb stones or edging stones can be used to create a stylish border around the edge or add some rustic charm.

Just bear in mind that Tarmac isn’t porous. As a result, you’ll need to choose a permeable asphalt for large driveways instead, or add underground drainage to clear standing water. In addition, Tarmac can warp and crack in very hot weather, so repairs may be needed.

4. Resin

Resin is a relatively new addition to the UK’s most popular types of driveway, however, it’s quickly catching on. There are two types of resin driveway to choose from – resin bound or resin bonded. While the bonded option is cheaper, there is a risk of stones becoming loose over time. For that reason, we’d always recommend choosing a resin bound driveway.

Innovative resin bound driveways combine clear resin with your choice of aggregates to create a sturdy, water-permeable surface. Once cured, the stones are firmly held in place, making resin ideal for sloping driveways that require stability. The colour of stones can also be tailored to suit your home and the UV resistant resin will help prevent sun damage.

However, it’s important to note that resin is not as tough as Tarmac, so if you have large vehicles, it may not be the best choice for you. Resin driveways also need to be laid by a professional, making them more expensive than the other options we’ve listed.

5. TDP PorousPave

As mentioned earlier, although highly cost-effective and attractive, gravel is not suitable for sloping driveways. This is where the TDP PorousPave grid system comes in. Made from recycled materials and designed to withstand the weight of an HGV, these innovative plastic grids will conform to any gradient to create a stable and base that will keep gravel in place and provide good traction for vehicles. As the gravel is maintained in smaller compacted pockets it is also easier to walk on. Alternatively, fill the gaps in the PorousPave grids with soil and grass seed or bark chippings for a durable but natural looking driveway.

Upgrade your driveway with AWBS

Whichever type of driveway you choose, AWBS are on hand to supply everything you need from block pavers and gravel to edging and construction aggregates for the sub-base below.

Browse our full collection online or pop into one of our branches in Oxford or Swindon to view all of our driveway materials in person. Once you’ve found the perfect products, we can provide fast and efficient delivery of goods, with no fees for delivery to local addresses.

You can even check your postcode’s eligibility online beforehand to avoid any surprises.