Introduction
Your driveway is often the first impression visitors have of your home. More than just a practical space for parking, the right driveway material can enhance kerb appeal, complement your property’s character, and increase long-term value.
For homeowners in Devon, the choice of driveway material is especially important. Rural lanes, coastal weather, and varied landscapes demand surfaces that are both durable and attractive. At Dares Surfacing, we specialise in helping homeowners choose and install the perfect driveway, with solutions ranging from traditional tarmac to stylish resin-bound finishes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most popular modern driveway materials, their benefits, considerations, and which might be the best fit for your Devon home.
Resin Driveways: Stylish and Low-Maintenance
Resin surfacing has quickly become one of the most sought-after driveway materials across Devon. Offering both beauty and performance, it’s perfect for homeowners seeking a modern, seamless finish.
Key Benefits of Resin Driveways:
- Aesthetic appeal: Available in a wide range of colours and stone blends, resin driveways can complement both contemporary and traditional homes.
- Low maintenance: Resistant to weeds and moss, resin requires only occasional sweeping and power washing.
- Permeability: A resin-bound system is naturally porous, helping reduce surface water build-up and flooding—a big advantage in Devon’s wetter climate.
- Durability: Built to withstand regular vehicle use without cracking or fading.
Best suited for: Homeowners wanting a sleek, stylish finish with minimal upkeep ideal for both modern properties and rural cottages where drainage is a concern.
Tarmac Driveways: Affordable and Long-Lasting
Tarmac remains a classic choice for driveways across Devon, thanks to its affordability, durability, and smooth finish.
Key Benefits of Tarmac Driveways:
- Cost-effective: One of the most budget-friendly driveway materials.
- Durable: Withstands heavy use and harsh weather conditions.
- Quick installation: Tarmac can often be laid faster than other materials, reducing disruption.
- Low maintenance: Only requires occasional cleaning and resealing to maintain its finish.
Best suited for: Families with multiple cars, rural homes with long driveways, or anyone looking for a practical, affordable option.
Block Paving: Customisable and Timeless
If design flexibility is your priority, block paving offers endless possibilities. Popular across Devon for patios, paths, and driveways, block paving allows for unique patterns, colours, and finishes.
Key Benefits of Block Paving:
- Design versatility: Choose from a wide range of patterns, colours, and textures to create a driveway unique to your home.
- Kerb appeal: Adds character and charm, increasing property value.
- Repairable: Individual blocks can be lifted and replaced if damaged, unlike poured surfaces.
- Durability: Properly laid block paving can last decades with minimal issues.
Best suited for: Homeowners who want a decorative driveway that stands out perfect for period properties and homes where kerb appeal is a priority.
Concrete Driveways: Strong and Reliable
Concrete is one of the toughest driveway materials, known for its longevity and minimal upkeep. Modern installation techniques also mean that concrete can be finished in a variety of textures and styles.
Key Benefits of Concrete Driveways:
- Strength: Capable of withstanding heavy vehicles and long-term wear.
- Low maintenance: Very little upkeep compared to other options.
- Versatility: Can be coloured, stamped, or textured for a more decorative look.
- Value for money: Long lifespan ensures a great return on investment.
Best suited for: Homeowners seeking a hard-wearing, practical solution with minimal fuss particularly useful for high-traffic driveways or commercial properties.
How to Choose the Right Driveway Material
When deciding between resin, tarmac, block paving, or concrete, consider the following factors:
- Budget – Tarmac and concrete are generally more affordable, while resin and block paving offer premium finishes.
- Maintenance – Resin and concrete require little upkeep, while block paving may need occasional re-sanding and weed removal.
- Aesthetics – Resin and block paving offer the widest choice of colours and styles, perfect for enhancing kerb appeal.
- Durability – Concrete and tarmac excel in strength, while resin and block paving provide longevity with added visual appeal.
- Property style – Choose a material that complements your home’s character, whether it’s a rural Devon cottage or a modern build.
Conclusion
Your driveway is an investment that should balance practicality with appearance. Whether you choose the affordable reliability of tarmac, the design flexibility of block paving, the strength of concrete, or the modern elegance of resin, each option has its own unique advantages.
At Dares Surfacing, we’ve been helping homeowners across Devon, Dorset, and Somerset find the perfect driveway solution for over 20 years. Our expert team provides professional advice, high-quality installation, and surfaces designed to last.
Ready to upgrade your driveway? Contact Dares Surfacing today to discuss your options and request a free quote.
