Asphalt vs. Concrete: What Makes the Best Driveways in Bournemouth?

What Makes the Best Driveways in Bournemouth

when it comes to Driveways in Bournemouth, If there’s one thing you have to pay attention to in your home’s exterior, it’s your driveway. Whether you’re constructing your home or looking for one, the one thing you have to look out for in your driveway is its material. How does it feel when you pull up? Will it last for as long as you intend to live there? These questions all depend on whether or not your driveway is asphalt or concrete. For an in-depth comparison, check out their pros and cons to decide what would work better for you.

 

Benefits of an Asphalt Driveway

 

More Affordable

 

Asphalt is a more cost-effective material for your driveway. It is a much softer material than concrete, which makes it less durable compared to it. However, it does have a lifespan of thirty years before it needs to be redone.

 

Repairs are Quicker and More Manageable

 

Because it is more malleable, some upkeep is needed for asphalt driveways after three to five years. But this maintenance is a lot less expensive than the maintenance of concrete driveways.

 

Clean Look and Finish

 

Asphalt covers the entire driveway with a clean and sleek surface that costs less than concrete. Aesthetically, it looks decent and gives great curb appeal. It is ideal for single residents who don’t use it often. If you don’t intend to stay for too long, asphalt is the perfect material for your driveway.

 

Disadvantages of Asphalt

 

Asphalt is not the ideal material for hot temperatures because of its malleability. I could melt into tires on hot days, which will need to be patched up right away. Compared to concrete, asphalt won’t last too long and is not ideal for families who intend to settle down in a home for an extended period.

 

Benefits of Concrete Driveway

 

More Durable

 

Concrete is a much stronger material that can last for over fifty years of use before needing a recoat. It is much more expensive than asphalt, but you will get more help from it in the future.

 

Great for Hot Weather Neighbourhoods

 

The sun can melt asphalt driveways, but it can’t melt rock-solid concrete. Concrete’s durability makes it a lot safer to walk around on the driveway without worrying about repairs for most of the year. However, when it gets colder, it will be prone to cracks, requiring some patchwork once it’s warm again.

 

Ideal for Long-Term Use

 

Concrete driveways are strong and can last for a long time, which is why they are considered investments to the property. If you own more than one car, have children who like to play around the driveway, and intend to stay in the house for a long time, then concrete will be ideal.

 

Disadvantages of Concrete

 

Concrete is less flexible, making it more expensive to build and maintain if it requires repairs. Unlike asphalt that takes some quick remodelling, concrete patches are more challenging, and rehabilitation costs more. If you are in a temporary living situation, it would be a waste of money to invest too much.

 

Conclusion

 

Asphalt and concrete both have their benefits and disadvantages. It all comes down to preference. For durability, concrete is the way to go. But if you don’t want to overspend, asphalt works just fine. You can always ask for a second opinion on which material to use from professional builders of Driveways in Bournemouth.

 

For expert work done on driveways in Bournemouth, schedule a call with Absolute Armour & Sons. We provide you with excellent building services using quality materials and craftsmanship—from commercial spaces to residential property. Transform your outdoor spaces and driveways with us today!

Paving specialists: Our Guide to Choosing the Ideal Paving Company

Our Guide to Choosing the Ideal Paving Company

When discussing matters about your home or your commercial establishment, there are many factors to consider to ensure you can get value for such a massive investment. A construction project is not a walk in the park, and if you miss out on specific points, you may put your building project at high risk of problems. You need paving specialists to get the job done right.

 

One of the things you need to consider for your project is the building specialists you’ll work with. Who’s going to design my building? Who’s going to be my main contractor? Who should I choose as my paving company? All of these questions are valid, but do you know the answers to your queries?

 

When choosing a paving company to work with, finding one with the lowest bid isn’t enough to guarantee quality results. If you’re on the hunt for your ideal paving company, stick around. This article is our ultimate guide that will help you choose the perfect paving specialist. Let’s get to it!

 

  1. Ensure That the Paving Company Is Insured

 

One of the biggest things you could forget when looking for a company is asking if they’re insured. Working with an insured company will take off loads of anxiety and give you peace of mind since they will be protected should anything horrific happen on the construction site.

 

Working with a paving company without proper protection can give you more problems in the long run. You may end up dealing with hidden fees, deal with legal issues, and more.

 

  1. They Should Be Using the Right Equipment

 

Another factor that you should consider is the type of equipment your paving specialists use. This is important because it can affect the outcome of your paving project in so many ways.

 

Working with a company with wonky and old equipment may save you a few bucks during the project. However, you might put out more cash for maintenance and repairs than you normally should in the coming years.

 

Quality equipment will allow paving specialists to properly lay down a blanket of asphalt, assuring a smoother job and outcome, while staying on the project timeline.

 

  1. The Materials They Choose and Their Attention to Detail

 

Sure, your pavement will be driven on or stepped on, but that doesn’t mean it should be below standards. When you’re searching for the right paving company, make sure to ask what materials they use for their projects. Low-quality asphalt can affect your pavement’s longevity, so if they can give you better and more quality options, that would be a better choice.

 

Besides their materials, your paving specialists should be meticulous about every project they take. Their attention to detail matters because the outcome will showcase their expertise and ensure your satisfaction.

 

  1. They Should Give Your a Proper Quote

 

Did you know that before the asphalt is laid down, you’ll have to pay for the bulk of materials you’ll use for your paving project? For this reason, you need to ensure that your paving contractors give you an accurate quote instead of a lazy estimate.

 

Getting inaccurate quotes could lead you to more expenses and piles of asphalt waste, so check their quotation breakdown before saying yes and putting out cash.

 

  1. They Should Have a Good Reputation

 

Asking around about different paving companies is ideal because nothing is worth more than past clients’ feedback and experiences. Any reputable paving company will have a bunch of happy customers behind them, willing to show off their amazing work. For this reason, ask for their references and speak to industry specialists, like real estate agents and contractors, to help you find the best in your town.

 

The Bottom Line: The Lowest Bid Isn’t All That Matters When Finding a Paving Company

 

Of course, you want to work with a company that will keep you in your budget bubble. However, you may be compromising the quality of your pavement and increase the problems of your building project.

 

This is why you need to consider the other five important factors we presented in this article to help you find the best paving specialist you can work with.

Why Should You Work With Us?

 

Absolute Armour & Sons aren’t new to the game. With years of notable building experience, our team of building specialists will provide you with exceptional building services fit for your construction needs.

 

We are landscaping and paving specialists who offer block paving, groundworks, concreting, pond construction and water gardens, general landscape building, and more. Give us a call today!

Paving in Poole: Asphalt Pavements That Are of Good Quality

paving-poole-Best Tips to Get Asphalt Pavements That Are of Good Quality

The best results when it comes to Paving in Poole are generally born out of the combination of two very important factors: well-done planning and a smooth execution. When this happens, it will make the roadway in question long-lasting. Many paving specialists are well aware that high-quality roadways are more than just placing hot rocks down on the ground then compacting the said rocks.

 

Effort, energy and time generally go into planning, with the mix design and maintenance of the machines involved. At the end of the day, the goal is simple: pavement that looks smooth and feels sturdy, able to withstand both time and aesthetic needs.

 

Want to know how you can get that ideal result for your Paving in Poole? Read on for the best tips to get asphalt pavements that are of good quality:

 

  • Have the right equipment and make sure it is set up correctly

 

Even the very best machinery and tools will be unable to help move things along if they’re not set up properly. Before you set foot anywhere near the job site, make sure that your needed equipment is complete and good to go. Has it been cleaned in the correct fashion, and thoroughly? How are the fluid levels? What is the status of your spray nozzles?

 

Make time to do full walkarounds of the equipment, and triple check to ensure that the right maintenance programs were done from start to finish. If there is a component you find yourself unsure of, the best course of action is to just have it replaced entirely before said machine goes anywhere.

 

  • Keep the paving speed steady

 

It would be best for a paver to basically go paving for the whole workday with no pausing or stopping. This is largely because shifts in speed when it comes to paving will have a negative effect on having a uniform mat at the end. Amongst issues that can arise are irregular depth of the mat, ripples and waves.

 

  • Remain consistent throughout the entirety of the job at hand

 

One of the most crucial parts of having a quality mat by the end of your job is consistency. This applies to the mix, roller pattern, speed of the paving and temperature, among others. If even a single one seems off in any capacity, make the necessary adjustments as soon as you can.

 

  • Take the time to make a solid plan

 

Long before the start of any job or the construction in general, it’s wisest to begin planning. These plans can change and adapt as things move along, all the way until the final step and day of the entire endeavour. This includes stages such as pre-construction, the designing of things and procurement. All of those need to be planned extensively at their most basic levels, moving “up.” With each move towards progress that occurs per stage, there is a chance that revisions to the plan will be necessary as well.

 

Conclusion

 

When laid out correctly, asphalt pavements can be easy on the eyes and incredibly long-lasting. There are several things that can be done to ensure quality asphalt pavements. Some of the most important ones to note include overall consistency and solid planning.

 

In need of getting paving done in Poole? Contact Absolute Armour today! We provide a full range of specialised building services to a large number of domestic and commercial customers across Bournemouth, Poole, Southampton and throughout Dorset and Hampshire.

3 Things to Consider When Deciding Your Home Driveway

3-things-to-consider-when-deciding-your-home-driveway

One of the first things you will see when approaching a house is its driveway, particularly whether it looks well-built and attractive. A beautiful driveway gives boosted appeal to one’s residence while also serving numerous practical purposes. An excellently-made driveway can even give your home the property value boost. By taking some time to make the right building decisions, it can become a great place for walking, playing, driving, and parking.

 

If you are planning to turn a residential space into an attractive and functional driveway, here are some tips on how to make the investment worthwhile:

 

#1: Be particular about your chosen surface

 

Before making a driveway, the first thing that you should consider is your chosen material. Remember, the driveway is a small private road meant for people and cars. As such, you must select a road surface that can hold out against their weight.

 

The driveway foundation and finish you decide on will determine how durable and appealing your driveway will be. There are four usual types of materials used for the driveway: pavers, asphalt, concrete, and gravel. When choosing a material, here are the factors you need to consider:

 

  • Cost of the material vs your budget;
  • Availability of your selected material;
  • Its durability and lifespan (consider the number of cars that will park on your space);
  • Proper drainage feature;
  • Installation process and expense; and
  • Aesthetic value.

 

If you plan to have a modern-looking driveway, you can try using imprint concrete or block paving. Besides the four mostly-used materials, you can also explore using other elements such as resin, tar, grass and paver, turf, or porous recycled glass.

 

Unlike other parts of a home, the driveway is not something that you need to update regularly, so make sure that you choose a material that will last for a long period.

#2: Consider adding landscaping

 

You do not have to fully give up your garden in exchange for a driveway—There is always a way to have the two. In fact, adding landscape around your driveway can advance your property’s look. Plants, greens, and flowers can always add a touch of class and life to your flat and dull-looking driveway.

 

Walking or driving over a green and blooming driveway is always a good experience. Make your home extra welcoming by adding low-growing plants, like creeping thyme, sedum, or varieties of daffodils along the strip you drive over. If you own a bigger land, you can always plant a tree for added shade.

 

#3: Factor in the maintenance

 

If your decision of paving your driveway is to get rid of your high-maintenance garden, you should choose a low-maintenance surface type. You also need to ensure that the correct weed protection is done before the contractors place your driveway to not encounter weed problems in the future.

 

Materials such as tarmac, block paving, and concrete are the most low-maintenance yet still most visually appealing materials. They are the perfect surface for homeowners with a busy lifestyle.!

 

Once you have chosen a material, you also need to take note of its regular maintenance. Driveway maintenance and preventive maintenance depends on your chosen material, but the most common and effective ways that will keep it looking good as new are the following:

 

  • Power washing: to remove stubborn stains and grime
  • Pressure washing: to remove the dirt and restore the aesthetic appeal
  • Sealer: for protecting your concrete or asphalt driveways from water destruction
  • Edging: for keeping your asphalt driveway intact

 

Looking after your driveway conscientiously will prevent it from quickly deteriorating.

 

Conclusion

 

The driveway is one of the focal points outside your home. Investing in a nice driveway from the start will free up your worries about keeping your home well-maintained and appealing throughout. Making the right decisions during the pre-construction can affect the durability and make of your driveway. As such, ensure that you think about these three tips and make them part of your decision-making process for the best results!

 

If you plan to transform your outdoor space into a stunning driveway, Absolute Armour & Sons is the paving specialist you need! We are the Brett-Approved paving experts you can trust, with a 10-year product guarantee and five-year installation guarantee. Connect with us today!

Does a Driveway Increase Property Value?

does-a-driveway-increase-property-value

Some homeowners will go through home renovations to give their space the much-needed upgrades it needs to elevate their ranks in the market. And for some people, they would even consider adding a functional home exterior, such as a driveway. But the question is: will a driveway increase your home’s value?

 

After World War II, there has been an uptick in vehicles on the road year after year because it’s undeniably one of the most convenient forms of transportation. Because of this, it is expected that the number of vehicles will continue to rise in the future, increasing the demand for safe and secure parking spaces, even at home. For this reason, more homeowners are incorporating driveways in their homes.

 

Because there are many things to consider if you want to have a driveway in your home, it’s best to work with experienced landscape building services to help you get your driveway right and ensure that you’re following HOA and country road regulations.

 

If you’re considering having a driveway in your property and wondering if it would make a difference in your home’s value, keep reading. In this article, we’ll share what you need to know about driveways and if it can increase your property’s value.

 

How does having a driveway increase your home’s value?

 

Ideally, you’d want to avoid the burden of parking your car on the roadside and because of that, having driveways in your home is incredibly beneficial. Besides keeping your car away from other vehicles on the road, you also get lower car insurance and lower your risk of damage from roadside accidents.

 

When you have a driveway in your home, you’ll instantly impress potential homebuyers and reassure them that they can keep their vehicles safe. Besides, a home buyer makes up their mind on a house within the first few seconds of viewing, so if you have a driveway, you’ll get plus points right away.

 

How much increase should I expect?

 

Various factors come into play when knowing how much of your property value can increase by having a driveway. Some of the things you need to consider are your geographical locations, driveway’s size and surface. But generally, you can expect to see at least a 10% increase in value in your property.

How much should I invest in a driveway?

 

Building a driveway is a considerably big investment; however, the cost may still vary based on its size, location and surface. This is why you must work with credible landscape building services should you wish to incorporate a driveway into your home.

 

When you invest in a driveway, you’ll need to figure out its size or how many cars would fit in the space. Besides that, you’ll need to consider what type of surface you want, whether you want tarmac, resin, gravel or other options.

 

Working with a landscape building company will help you determine the right type of driveway and ensure that you’re adequately protecting your parked car, without compromising your home’s aesthetics.

Conclusion

 

Having a new driveway will definitely increase your home’s value, making it worth spending that extra money to help impress potential home buyers. To get the results and appearance that you want, it’s best to work with experts offering landscape building services for this home improvement project. So keep your cars safe, get a new driveway and increase the value of your home with one significant home improvement!

 

If you’re looking for landscape building in Bournemouth, check out Absolute Armour & Sons. We offer a full range of specialist building services such as groundworks, driveways, patios, concreting, block paving and more. Learn more about our services today!

Paving specialists in Poole – Stains You Can Encounter with Block Paving

paving-specialists-in-poole

Incorporating block paving in your residential or commercial driveway is beneficial because it offers an aesthetic appeal and a long-lasting finish to your property. While you try to maintain its good condition as best as possible, you must understand that your paving isn’t impervious to spills and stains.

Before you initiate the proper measures to get rid of the problem, you should take the time to determine where the stain came from so that you can perform the right solutions to eliminate it. That way, you can take care of the situation and prevent the stain or spill from getting worse and damaging your surface. Should you feel out of your depth or unable to attend this, you can also contact us the Paving specialists in Poole.

For best results, you should apply your stain treatment to one portion of the affected area and wait to see if it works properly before you proceed with working on the rest of your pavement. Keep reading below to discover the different kinds of stains that can cause problems to your block paving.

 

Moss, Lichens, and Algae

Moss, lichens, and algae are organisms that tend to grow in shaded areas that are damp and moist. If you find them on your driveway, you can get rid of them by using a tool to scrub them off thoroughly.

You can also consider applying chemicals to treat the affected area and eliminate moss or weed growing on your paving. The products may take a while to become effective, and you should utilise them when the climate is dry.

 

Tyre Marks

The change in the weather and the eventual wearing of your commercial paving allows tyre and skid marks to disappear on its own. But if you want faster results, you can scrub the region using hot water and detergent powder.

Make sure you use only the right amount of solution because applying too much can lead to some loss of pigment on your concrete. Aside from that, you can also incorporate power washing to get rid of the tyre marks left on your paving.

 

Rust Stains

You first need to establish where the rust stains are coming from before taking the necessary actions to treat your situation and prevent it from happening again. Once done, you will need to pour water on your pavement before putting a ten% hydrochloric acid solution over it.

If the solution isn’t available, you can use a similar product you can find from hardware stores. However, you must be careful with using hydrochloric acid because it tends to affect concrete and could leave a mark on the surface of your paving. Just make sure to follow the instructions when removing rust stains independently.

 

Paint Stains

If you accidentally put paint on your paving and it’s still fresh, you should apply an absorbent product over it and avoid spreading the stain. Afterwards, you should use the right solvent while adhering to instructions before you proceed with spraying the area with water and detergent.

However, if you’re dealing with dried up paint, try to scrape off as much as you can before using a paint remover to finish it off. Don’t forget to wash the region and throw away the remnants of dry paint to ensure your paving is clean and in good condition again.

 

Conclusion

Your block paving is relatively easy to maintain, so long as you wash and clean it when necessary to take care of any visible blemishes. If you want to guarantee your paving is in excellent condition for the years to come, it’s best to call a landscape building professional to handle your property for regular maintenance.

Are you looking for paving specialists in Poole, UK, to supervise your paving construction? Absolute Armour & Sons offers a full range of specialist building services to our domestic and commercial clients looking for groundworks, general landscape building, block paving, concreting, garden design, and more. Get in touch with us today so we can start improving your landscape!

Landscape building in Bournemouth – 4 Ideas for Privacy in Your Garden

Landscape building in Bournemouth - 4 Ideas for Privacy in Your Garden

Once in a while, it will work to your advantage to find a peaceful and quiet place to relax and be alone with your thoughts. It is increasingly getting more challenging to have a relaxing time alone because of all the technology, nosy neighbours, and the hustle and bustle of traffic noises. One way to block out these distractions is to have your private time in your own private garden. Below we have put together four ideas for Landscape building in Bournemouth gardens and with added privacy.

 

Having a garden will bring tranquillity and calm to an otherwise busy and stressful life. A garden is a perfect sanctuary for people who may sometimes need a break from their urban lifestyles. It is the ideal place to get away from prying eyes and clear their head. After reading this article, you will have an idea of the most practical landscaping themes to help you get started in building your own little garden.

 

4 Landscaping Ideas for Added Privacy in Your Garden

 

The first step is mapping out your ideas for your garden. Having a general idea of which plants, trees, and garden features will go where will make the process of constructing your garden an easier feat for you.

 

1 – Install a Fence

 

A fence will provide privacy for your garden. It is your first initial defence from nosy neighbours, and it will keep your garden safe from the elements when extreme weather befalls your neighbourhood. If you do not yet have a fence in the area where you plan to put your garden, it would be wise to install one. However, if you already have an existing fence, it may be best to take a look at it to see if it needs any repairs or reinforcement.

 

2 – Add a Trellis

 

A trellis will be a beautiful (and useful) addition to any garden. You can add vines and other climbing plants on it, and it will add an extra layer of privacy and protection for your garden once the vines fully envelop it. It will also provide a more aesthetically pleasing way to display other potted plants, as you can hang them on the trellis.

 

3 – Build a Pergola

 

A pergola is a shaded area that will protect you from the harsh sunlight should you want to take a nap outside on lazy afternoons. Pergolas can also be used to hang plants and have vines grow on them. If your fence and trellis are not enough in terms of privacy, a pergola will help you feel secure as you relax in your garden.

 

4 – Put Hedges and Shrubbery

 

Hedges and shrubbery may also be used in place of a fence. Shrubs and trees are a more natural way to create a private space for you to go when you need time to think. The only disadvantage that plants and shrubbery have is that it may take some time for them to grow and fully obscure the garden and your personal space from people peering in from the outside. However, with patience, your shrubbery will grow into a natural fence that will complete the overall look and feel of your garden fortress.

 

You may opt to install a fence first while you give your shrubbery a chance to grow. When you feel confident that your trees and shrubbery will be tall enough to provide ample privacy, you may choose to remove your fence.

 

Conclusion

 

Whether you want to test your skills as a green thumb or if you want to have a private space where you can go to relax and clear your mind, you can achieve these goals if you have a garden. Following the above-mentioned tips will increase the privacy of your garden and make it a safe sanctuary you can retreat to when you need it.

 

Absolute Armour and Sons provides a full range of specialist building services to a large number of domestic and commercial customers across Bournemouth, Poole, Southampton, and throughout Dorset and Hampshire. Interested clients who need landscape building in Bournemouth may contact us today!

Driveways in Dorset – 6 Factors to Consider When Planning your driveway

Driveways in Dorset - 6 Factors to Consider When Planning your driveway

Driveways in Dorset are more than an area to park your vehicle. The path also plays a significant role in your home’s curb appeal, which is important whenever you plan to sell the property. In the case that you don’t have any plans of selling, a well-planned driveway can still make an excellent first impression. For this reason, you need to make sure the path is planned properly, or it could do more harm than good for your home.

 

Six factors to consider when planning the superior Driveways in Dorset

 

  1. Functionality

 

This is one of the most vital factors to consider because it will affect your decisions along the way. Regardless of the style you choose, the driveway must be able to serve its purpose—to be a convenient area to park your car. Moreover, you need to consider the number of people living in the house and the frequency of visitors coming over. If your family is growing, you will need to maximise your driveway space to make it easier for you to use it if you will have more cars in the future.

 

  1. Ease Of Access

 

If you go for the most appealing options of the market, but the access is difficult, then it will not serve its purpose. This is why you must choose a practical design, as your driveway must be easy to access depending on the number of cars you will park. With that, ensure the design will provide you access from the street to your driveway, and it must be wide enough to allow for more convenient reversing as well.

 

  1. Accessories

 

As one of the more fun parts, you can make your driveway look more inviting to enhance your curb appeal by adding accessories in it. Consider lighting that you can build into the entryway. Not only will the lights illuminate the area better, but they can also make your property look good at nights!

 

  1. Style

 

There are various materials you can choose from when planning your driveway. If you are thinking of a style, start off with something that complements your property. Ideally, natural stone paving is preferred because of its classic look, but you can also achieve it with cobble setts that are available in various shapes and colours. Whatever it is you choose, keep in mind to invest in high-quality materials that will last you many years!

  1. Budget

 

When it comes to your budget, you need to follow the 20/80 rule—20% of the project cost is made up of the products and 80% from installation and sub-base. Make sure you work with a reliable contractor you’re comfortable with to discuss your budget openly.

 

  1. Permits

 

There are specific regulations you need to adhere to when planning and building Driveways in Dorset. Check with your local council first before you build as you don’t want to encounter any issues during the project that will cost you more money or delay your plans.

Transform Your Driveway With Specialists

 

Remember that your driveway is one of the most essential areas in your property. So, if you want to upgrade it, take the time to plan things thoroughly. Moreover, it’s important to find a reliable contractor you can trust who specialises in outdoor spaces. With a professional’s advice and guidance, you can expect a functional driveway that will take your property’s external look to the next level!

 

Absolute Armour & Sons is known to be one of the best driveway builders in Dorset. We have been providing paving and surfacing services for over 25 years and are keen on ensuring customer satisfaction. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!

What You Need to know About a Gravel Driveway

What You Need to know About a Gravel Driveway

Roads, driveways, and pathways have indeed come a long way in the path construction industry over the years. Today, there are various materials used for these—from concrete to asphalt to pavers down to composite pavements.

 

What about gravel driveways? Perhaps you haven’t heard much about them. Essentially, they’re a path made of gravel materials. There’s no doubt that gravel has remained a perennially popular material for driveways because they are aesthetically pleasing, highly durable, long-lasting, and relatively affordable.

 

In this article, we’ll share with you what you need to know about a gravel driveway and its benefits:

 

Strength and durability

 

A gravel driveway is notable for its strength and stability due to its materials. It is particularly ideal for a location with excess moisture brought by frequent rainfall or high humidity. As the materials allow the moisture to drain away rather quickly, the driveway remains solid and stable. Furthermore, it doesn’t easily get subject to wear and tear over time, even with the presence of a changing climate and extreme weather conditions.

 

Stability and longevity

 

As mentioned above, gravel is a very durable material. When it is used for your driveway, you can expect it to last for as long as possible. Not only does it withstand the weather, but it’s also capable of enduring constant impact and high traffic. As long as you take good care of it through regular cleaning and maintenance, you can prolong its lifespan, ensuring that its lifespan increases longer than expected!

 

Constant maintenance

 

Yes, a gravel driveway is notable for its durability and longevity. Yet, keep in mind that it needs to be regularly cleaned and maintained. Proper care usually involves removing debris like leaves and sticks from the driveway regularly and fixing any cracks or potholes at least every year. Ultimately, regular upkeep doesn’t only ensure it will last long but also preserve its overall aesthetic appeal.

 

Accessibility and availability

 

What’s great about the gravel materials is that they are readily available in today’s market and come in various types based on shapes and sizes, colours, and designs. For this reason, you can certainly choose the right materials best suited for your driveway construction project. With their accessibility and availability, you can easily and quickly pursue this project and make sure that it fulfils your goals!

Affordability

 

As mentioned, a gravel driveway is an affordable option compared to other materials in the market, such as concrete, pavers, and composite pavements. If you’re looking to save up on your driveway construction, then a gravel driveway can be your best bet. Given all the remarkable features discussed above, you have all the right reasons to install it while saving up in the long run!

 

Conclusion

 

At this point, we’ve covered all you need to know about a gravel driveway in terms of its strength and durability, stability and longevity, constant maintenance, accessibility and availability, and affordability. When looking to install a driveway, remember that gravel materials can be your best bet due to its many benefits. To that end, be sure to get this material from a highly reliable supplier and work with a professional installer for its construction so that the gravel driveway will kick your curb appeal up a notch!

 

We’re your go-to landscape building company in Bournemouth, offering a wide range of outdoor construction services for residential properties such as general landscapes, gardens, groundworks, pavings, and driveways. If you’re looking to have a gravel driveway, get in touch with us today to learn more about our services!

A Guide to Designing Your Driveway

A Guide to Designing Your Driveway-in-wiltshire

Your driveway’s design may seem like a minor aspect of your home, but it can add so much more value to a property than you might think. A nice, new driveway can add curb appeal to your house by giving it a well-kept appearance, which always creates an excellent first impression. It also provides an adequate level of security as the first line of defence when it comes to potential break-ins.

 

A good driveway design will combine both the functionality of security and an aesthetically pleasing look, which can be done with only the top paving specialists in the area. Here’s a guide on how you can achieve the best driveway for your home:

 

Determining the Size of the Driveway

 

Your new driveway must adhere to regulations that specify a minimum of three meters wide to fit an average-sized car. If you’re including parking and turning, it may have to be wider.

 

Figuring Out the Cost of a New Driveway

 

Depending on the size of your driveway area, the material you’ve chosen to work with, and the amount of preparation needed, driveway prices will vary significantly. The cost of labour to complete the project should also be factored in.

 

On average, groundwork is estimated at £20 per square metre. Surfaces like gravel will cost somewhere around £4 per square metre, while resin-bound paving costs as much as £54 per square metre. Deciding on your budget and what you want to pave your driveway will help you finalise the cost of the groundworks.

 

Choosing the Material for Your Driveway

 

There are a wide array of driveway materials to choose from. Selecting the best one should take into consideration your home’s exterior and front garden, as well as whether you’ll be anticipating things like oil spills that might ruin the look of your pavement. Detailed houses will often look best with plain finishes while understated exteriors pair well materials that add interest to your driveway design.

 

Another thing to consider is the drainage option you have on your property. Keep in mind that poured surfaces are more difficult to repair and replace compared to blocks and paving choices!

 

There are numerous paving and surface materials you can choose from when designing your driveway, which fall into three categories: loose materials, block paving, and concrete and asphalt.

 

Loose materials, like gravel, work well as they retain rainwater and serve a security function since you can hear people approaching. Block paving allows water to drain away but may need sealing to be made slip-resistant. You can get creative with this type of paving material. When it comes to low-cost, durable, and low maintenance, concrete and asphalt are your best bet. These look best on sloping sites and have a contemporary look given the right setting.

 

Designing the Driveway Itself

 

  1. Straight or Curved

 

This will depend on the area you have for your driveway. Larger ones can accommodate long and straight driveways, while smaller ones will do well with curved designs. Focus on designing with the materials you choose for more limited areas.

 

  1. Getting Around on Foot

 

Keep in mind that your driveway and front yard or garden should transition smoothly. When designing pathways to your front door, carefully think about how easy you can make it for someone to get there without having to take any detours. If you have a garage, then consider how you’ll get from there to your house on foot.

 

  1. Lighting Up Your Driveway

 

Including lighting in your driveway design must be decided early on so you can ensure it will be integrated well into your chosen material. Uplighters are one of the most popular options that won’t bother neighbours and still show off your garden. Drive-over lights also look subtle yet contemporary.

 

If you can, then try to go for motion-sensor lights to make sure they’re more energy-efficient and less bothersome.

 

Conclusion

 

There are many aspects to designing the right kind of groundworks for your home, whether you’re designing driveways in Bournemouth or elsewhere. Some may prefer a more detailed and traditional look, while others might choose a more contemporary look. Getting the right professionals to help you choose your material will ensure a beautiful, professional finished result.

 

Here at Absolute Armour & Sons, we provide specialist building services for commercial and domestic clients. From driveways in Wiltshire to artificial lawns in Poole, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch with us today to design your driveway and improve your landscape!