SCHNEIDER Real Estate, Inc.
Roger Schneider, SCHNEIDER Real Estate, Inc.
Email: [email protected]

Tips to Consider Before Installing Your Driveway

by Roger Schneider 02/26/2023

Paved driveways are widely credited with increasing curb appeal and improving real estate values. However, dirt, gravel or driveways suffering from disrepair can negatively impact home sales. If you rank among homeowners who need a new driveway installation, these are things worth considering.

What driveway material should you use?

The best material for a driveway is driven by things such as location, DIY abilities, cost and long-term maintenance, among others. A handy property owner can install materials such as concrete and interlocking pavers. Hot-poured asphalt poses a significantly higher challenge. These are other things to consider about popular driveway materials.

Concrete: Ranked among the relatively inexpensive materials, concrete typically enjoys a longevity of 25-50 years. This material is astounding in hot-weather regions because it resists sunlight and heat.

Asphalt: Also commonly called "blacktop," this material delivers excellent curbside appeal and return on investment. Asphalt generally lasts 15-20 years and requires maintenance every three to five years. Although considered labor-intensive by comparison, many homeowners choose asphalt for its aesthetic value.

Interlocking Pavers: Homeowners can secure thick concrete pavers from local building materials outlets and install them without the help of a contractor. These relatively inexpensive products appear similar to cobblestone and can last upwards of 30-50 years.

Although these rank among the most popular materials, homeowners can also consider glass, tar-and-chip and others. Along with materials, property owners may want to consider design elements.  

Does your driveway design deliver function?

The proven benefits of an inviting driveway should be combined with functionality. Common missteps homeowners may want to consider before breaking ground are:

Drainage: Regions with heavy and sudden downpours can suffer flash flooding and water backing up on properties. People who deal with this issue during rainy seasons may want to consider integrating a drainage system. Metal grates flowing into an underground pipe can be positioned on the lower third of the driveway.

Pitch: Ideally, the grade of a driveway runs two to five percent pitch. By employing adequate pitch in a driveway design, water will flow away from the garage and home.

It's also prudent to check local building regulations regarding driveway installations. Although common guidelines call for driveways of a minimum of 10 feet in width, regulations may differ.

Homeowners who have not previously installed a driveway or remain unsure about the design and materials should consult with a professional.

About the Author
Author

Roger Schneider

SCHNEIDER Real Estate, my family's business has been at the forefront of our area's Real Estate transactions for over 40 years! With experiences in the following areas; St. Charles, St. Louis, Lincoln, Warren, Jefferson County, I help both buyers and sellers meet their real estate objectives. I have extensive knowledge of each of the communities located in and around St. Charles, and I will work tirelessly on your behalf to make your next St. Peters home buying or OFallen home selling experience a pleasant and successful one.For sellers, it is my commitment to help sell your home or property in a timely fashion while helping you attain the highest possible price for your real estate. If you are interested in receiving a free home valuation, I encourage you to fill out my free home valuation form.For buyers looking for homes or other real estate opportunities here in St. Charles or other surrounding communities, I will work with you to find your ideal home. I will provide you with all of the necessary tools for finding the right property. From free access to search almost all St. Charles, St. Louis, Lincoln, Warren, Jefferson County area homes, to the ability to fill out My Dream Home Finder Form, everything I can possibly provide will be at your service. In addition, once we've narrowed down what you are looking for, we can begin the home showing process so you can get a closer look at the homes that should be a good fit. I help negotiate the best possible deal for my clients with each and every real estate transaction.Nothing satisfies me more than seeing the smiles that come with a successful real estate transaction. Thanks again for considering me as your Realtor.