What Type of Driveway is Best for Me? A Guide for Kent Homeowners
Your driveway is more than just a place to park your car; it’s the first impression your home makes. It needs to be practical, durable, and complement the style of your property. With so many options available, choosing the right driveway can feel overwhelming.
Here at Towergate Builders, we want to make that decision easier for you. This guide will walk you through the most popular driveway materials in Kent, helping you choose the perfect one for your home, budget, and lifestyle.
Resin Bound - The Modern Choice
A relative newcomer, resin-bound surfacing has quickly become a favourite for homeowners in Canterbury and across Kent, and for good reason.
What is it? A smooth, seamless surface created by mixing natural aggregates (small stones) with a clear, strong resin.
Aesthetics: Offers a sharp, contemporary finish. Available in a huge range of colours and stone blends, from natural golden tones to modern greys, allowing for a truly bespoke look.
Pros:
- Extremely Durable & Low Maintenance: Resistant to cracks, oil stains, and weeds. A simple jet wash is usually all it needs to look its best.
- Permeable: Water drains through the surface, preventing puddles and complying with modern sustainable drainage (SuDS) regulations. This is a huge plus given the British weather!
- Smooth Finish: Ideal for accessibility, pushchairs, and bicycles.
Cons:
- Higher Initial Cost: Generally more expensive than other options upfront.
- Requires Professional Installation: The finish is only as good as the installation. It’s crucial to use an experienced team.
Best for: Those wanting a modern, stylish, and low-maintenance driveway that will last for years.
Block Paving: The Timeless Classic
Block paving is a traditional and incredibly versatile option that remains one of the most popular choices for driveways in the UK.
What is it? Individual blocks, typically made from concrete or clay, are laid in a pattern on a prepared sub-base.
Aesthetics: Offers endless design possibilities. With various colours, sizes, and laying patterns (like herringbone or basketweave), you can create a look that’s unique to your home, whether it’s a period property in Faversham or a new build in Ashford.
Pros:
Highly Versatile: A huge range of styles to suit any home.
Durable: Very hard-wearing and can handle heavy vehicles with ease.
Easy to Repair: If a block becomes stained or damaged, it can be individually lifted and replaced.
Cons:
Maintenance: Can be prone to weed and moss growth in the joints and may require occasional re-sanding and sealing.
Potential for Movement: If not installed correctly, blocks can sink or move over time.
Best for: Homeowners looking for a classic, customisable, and long-lasting driveway.
Tarmac (Asphalt): The Practical Powerhouse
Tarmac has been a driveway staple for decades, offering a no-nonsense, durable, and cost-effective solution.
What is it? A black, smooth surface made from crushed stone mixed with bitumen.
Aesthetics: While traditionally just black, modern tarmac can be specified in different colours and can be edged with block paving or stone to create a more decorative look.
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: One of the most affordable driveway options.
- Quick to Install: A tarmac driveway can often be laid in a single day, minimising disruption.
- Very Durable & Weather-Resistant: Stands up well to the elements and heavy traffic.
Cons:
- Can Soften in Extreme Heat: May become susceptible to damage during very hot summer days.
- Less “Premium” Look: Can be seen as a more functional than beautiful option unless enhanced with decorative edging.
Best for: Those on a tighter budget, with a large area to cover, who need a practical and durable surface.
Gravel Driveways: The Charming & Secure Choice
Gravel offers a rustic charm that is hard to beat, especially for country homes and period properties across the Kent countryside.
What is it? A simple surface made of loose aggregates (stones).
Aesthetics: Provides a traditional, natural look that blends beautifully with gardens and older buildings. Available in a wide variety of colours and stone sizes.
Pros:
Most Affordable Option: Gravel is the cheapest material for a new driveway.
Excellent Drainage: Naturally permeable, so no issues with standing water.
Added Security: The crunching sound of gravel underfoot and on tyres is a great deterrent for intruders.
Cons:
High Maintenance: Stones can scatter onto paths and roads, and it will require regular raking. Weeds can also be an issue if a quality weed membrane isn’t used.
Can Be Difficult to Walk On: Not ideal for high heels or for wheeling pushchairs and bins.
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners with traditional or rural properties who don’t mind a bit of maintenance.
At A Glance: Driveway Comparison
| Feature | Resin-Bound | Block Paving | Tarmac | Gravel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | Modern & Sleek | Classic & Versatile | Functional | Rustic & Natural |
| Durability | Very High | High | High | Medium |
| Maintenance | Very Low | Medium | Low | High |
| Initial Cost | High | Medium-High | Low-Medium | Low |
| Permeable? | Yes | Can be | No | Yes |
Choosing the best driveway ultimately comes down to your personal priorities.
If your main focus is a stunning, modern look with minimal maintenance, a resin-bound driveway is an excellent long-term investment.
If you love classic design and want endless customisation to match your home’s character, block paving is the perfect choice.
If you need a durable, no-fuss surface and budget is your main concern, tarmac is a reliable and practical option.
If you’re looking for an affordable, charming, and natural-looking driveway for a more traditional property, gravel is a fantastic solution.
We hope this guide has been helpful. If you’re still unsure, or ready to take the next step, the team at Towergate Builders is here to help. We have years of experience installing beautiful and durable driveways across Kent and Canterbury.
If you’re thinking about getting a driveway installed in Canterbury or anywhere in the wider Kent area, get in touch via the contact page or by giving us a call on 07770 047477!
