If you are looking to have a paved driveway installed to improve the value, appearance, and functionality of your home, you are making a good choice. A driveway provides you with extra parking spaces for your friends and family, provides a walkway up to your home, and is overall a beneficial addition. When considering residential paving, there are a few factors you will need to consider.

Pavement Material

The first thing you need to consider discussing with your local residential paving company is the material you wish to use. Approximately 90% of all driveways are made of either concrete or asphalt and can increase the value of your home by roughly $10,000 to $20,000. Although concrete and asphalt are clearly top choices for homeowners, there are other material options available. Alternatives to concrete and asphalt include:

• Interlocking pavers
• Tar and chip
• Glass
• Exposed Aggregate
• Gravel

Discuss your budget with your paving contractor to determine which material might work best for your driveway. The contractor will help you figure it out based on how much you are looking to spend, the climate in your area, how much traffic your driveway will see, and other factors.

Driveway Placement

Another important factor to consider is where you wish to place your driveway. Speaking to a professional residential paver is the best way to come up with an ideal location for your driveway. The paver will help you select a location that is compatible with your property's overall topography. For instance, if there are certain trees, shrubs, or rocks that you wish to preserve, that will factor into the placement of your driveway.

Driveway Width

Your contractor will likely want to talk to you about the thickness of your driveway. Are you looking to add a driveway for a single-car garage? Two-car garage? Bigger? That will weigh into how wide the driveway should be. Also, you will need to consider if you want additional space for walking. For instance, if visitors walk up your driveway to get to your front door instead of on a separate path, you may want to consider some additional width.

Hire a Residential Paving Expert

The most important factor to consider before installing a driveway for your home is how you are going to get it done. There is really only one way to ensure you get the job done right and that is by hiring a local residential paving expert. You may find plenty of information encouraging you to take the DIY approach, but you want to make sure your driveway is strong, durable, and beautiful looking so it adds plenty of appeal and value to your home. Contact a professional near you today to find out more.