Installing a new driveway is a big investment, and one that should last decades if you get it right. But choosing a surface based purely on how it looks on day one is a common mistake. The right material depends on more than style. Drainage, durability, maintenance, and long-term cost all matter just as much.

Kevin, owner of KJW Landscapes puts it plainly: “People get sold on the surface, but if it’s not fit for the site, or if the groundwork is wrong, you’re buying problems. You need to think long-term from the start.”

Here’s a practical breakdown of the most common driveway materials used in the UK, along with their real-world pros and cons.

Asphalt (Tarmac)

Tarmac is one of the most cost-effective and quickest surfaces to install, especially for larger driveways or shared access roads. It’s flexible enough to cope with minor ground movement and is usually laid hot, helping it bond well with the base layer. However, while it starts out smooth, it doesn’t stay that way forever.

“Tarmac is fine if you just need a basic, hard-wearing surface,” Kevin says. “But it’s not low maintenance. It softens in heat, cracks in frost, and fades fast if it’s not sealed. You’ll probably need to resurface it within 10 to 15 years.”

Traditional tarmac also creates water run-off. Unless you opt for porous tarmac, which costs more, you’ll need surface drainage, especially to comply with SUDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems) regulations or the equivalent in your area.

Concrete

Concrete offers serious durability and strength, making it ideal for properties with heavy vehicles or regular use. It can last 30 years or more when installed correctly, but upfront prep is crucial. A proper sub-base, expansion joints, and steel reinforcement (if needed) can be the difference between a driveway that lasts and one that starts cracking after a few winters.

Kevin points out: “Concrete’s tough, but it’s also unforgiving. If the ground shifts or the base isn’t compacted right, you’re stuck with cracks you can’t just patch up invisibly.”

A plain concrete surface can look stark, but interest can be added using dyes or pattern imprints. Still, it’s not ideal if you’re after a softer or more traditional finish. Oil stains can also be an issue unless the surface is sealed.

Block Paving

Block paving has been a staple for Cheshire driveways for the past 20 years, and for good reason. It balances aesthetics with practicality. With a wide range of colours, patterns, and edging options, it suits both modern and period homes. If blocks become stained or damaged, they can be lifted and replaced individually.

Kevin explains: “The flexibility is what people like, visually and practically. But the structure underneath is still key. We’ve seen block drives that look perfect for a year, then start dipping because corners were cut below ground.”

Standard block paving isn’t permeable, so unless you choose a SUDS-compliant variant, drainage will need to be factored in. Regular upkeep is also required, re-sanding joints, weed control, and occasional jet washing to maintain the finish.

Gravel

Loose gravel is one of the cheapest and quickest driveway options and is fully permeable when laid over a stabilised, free-draining base. That makes it one of the most SUDS-friendly choices. It works especially well for rural or older-style properties and comes in many aggregate sizes and colours.

That said, gravel isn’t ideal for every site. It struggles on steep gradients and needs a firm, level base to avoid ruts and puddles.

“Gravel looks great when it’s fresh, but if it’s not edged or stabilised, it quickly ends up all over the pavement or into your borders,” Kevin says. “It’s not a set-and-forget surface.”

It also needs occasional raking and topping up and isn’t the best fit for households with small children, bikes, or accessibility needs.

Resin-Bound Gravel

Resin-bound gravel is a premium finish that blends style with function. Decorative aggregates are bound in a UV-stable resin, creating a smooth, seamless surface. It’s fully permeable, requires no added drainage, and resists weeds and frost. With proper installation, resin-bound drives can last over 20 years.

But quality varies. Kevin warns: “We’ve replaced resin drives that failed within five years because the wrong resin was used or the prep was rushed. It’s a great surface, but only in the right hands.”

It requires a solid, free-draining sub-base and installation is highly weather-dependent. Even slight moisture during mixing can cause the resin to bloom or fail. Though it’s one of the pricier options per square metre, savings on drainage can help offset the cost.

Natural Stone and Granite Setts

For a high-end, timeless look, natural stone and granite setts are hard to beat. They’re extremely durable and suit everything from listed buildings to modern luxury homes. These materials often improve with age and need little more than occasional cleaning.

“Granite and stone give you presence,” says Kevin. “It’s not just about the surface; it changes how the whole front of the property feels.”

Laying them properly is labour-intensive, though. Each piece must be individually bedded, and both material and installation costs are at the top end. Some smoother stones can also be slippery when wet, so texture choice is important.

What It All Comes Down To

The best driveway surface depends on the property, how it will be used, and long-term expectations. There’s no one-size-fits-all, it’s about choosing the right material for the site and investing in proper groundwork.

As Kevin puts it: “You can have the most expensive finish in the world, but if the base is wrong, it won’t last. Get the fundamentals right, and the surface will take care of itself.”