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!

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!

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!

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!

Driveways in Dorset – 4 Cleaning Tips for a Spotless driveway

Driveways in Dorset - 4 Cleaning Tips for a Spotless driveway

Driveways do many things to your home. Not only does it offer a spot to park vehicles, but it can also be used to improve the curb appeal of your home. Unfortunately, as time goes by, the driveway will slowly deteriorate, especially if you have been neglecting it. You will start seeing debris, spills, and other forms of dirt and grime gradually collect on the driveway, hurting its aesthetics. If this is the case with your driveway, then it is time to get to cleaning!

To ensure that our Driveways in Dorset  look as good as new, here are some cleaning tips you must try out:

 

  1. Rake the leaves

In certain times of the year, plenty of leaves will rest on your driveway, creating a huge mess. When this happens, it is recommended that you rake the leaves immediately to keep the place nice and clean. In the case that you discover brown stains after sweeping the leaves, you can quickly get rid of those using some dishwashing liquid and hot water. Scrub away at the stain with the solution, and rinse away for a clean finish.

 

  1. Clean on cloudy days

Generally, you should be cleaning your driveway whenever it gets dirty. However, there are times that will allow you to do a far better job than other times. For instance, you should be cleaning your driveway when it is cloudy and warm. This is to ensure the driveway does not dry up too quickly, which can hurt the results of the cleaning effort. If you want to look for specific months to clean your driveway, consider the summer and spring months. The temperature is more comfortable then, and it is also when the driveway is at its most dirty.

 

  1. Use a stiff-bristled broom or pressure washer

Sometimes, dirt and grime can get stuck in your driveway. If this is the case, then use a stiff-bristled broom. The bristles can easily get into the crevices to dislodge the dirt and grime, allowing you to sweep them away and leave a flawless finish. If you have a pressure washer, you can also use it as the high-powered jet of water can also dislodge the dirt. Do be careful with a pressure washer because if you are using a setting that is too strong (or the wrong detergent), you may damage the driveway.

 

  1. Use the right solution for stains

There are various stains you may need to tackle on your driveway, from grease stains to even paint stains. To remove these, you will need to be using the right solution.

For grease stains, you can use an absorbent solution such as kitty litter. Cover it up thoroughly and leave it for up to a day before sweeping it away. This also applies to antifreeze stains. For paint stains, especially oil-based ones, you will need to scrub it off using a paint-stripping solution. Leave it there for a while then wash away with water. Note that with paint-strippers, you will want to avoid using them on asphalt as it can damage the surface. Only use it on concrete surfaces.

 

Conclusion

Cleaning your driveway will take some effort and time to get right. Generally, you can expect to be spending an hour or two, or even the whole afternoon, to clean your driveway. However, this is an effort that is well worth all of it. With a clean driveway, not only does your driveway look a lot better, but so does your curb appeal. Regardless of the reasons to clean your driveway, whether it be to boost your home’s value or to get rid of dirt, remember the tips above to ensure an effective and productive driveway cleaning session!

Absolute Armour & Sons provides various specialist building services such as artificial lawns, fencing and landscaping to both commercial and domestic clients. If you are looking to have professionals do your driveway in Dorset, work with us today!

We’re full-range paving specialists in Poole that can transform your landscape!

We’re full-range paving specialists in Poole

The driveway design in residential properties is easy to overlook, paving specialists in Poole will tell you that it plays a pivotal part in the home living experience more than you think. The looks can make or mar the exterior home’s curb appeal, while the materials, layout, and overall finish can impact its functionality and durability.

 

After all, the outdoor space deserves equal attention as you would in your home’s interior design, so taking the time to improve the driveway can do wonders for boosting the property’s value. If you’re at a loss on what to do with your driveway, the list below explores some design ideas that can enhance your property in more ways than one.

 

Different Driveway Designs to Consider For Your Home

1: Go for the Best of Both Worlds with a Mix of Brick and Grassy Areas

 

Homeowners with a garden that enhances the exterior property can still keep the verdant landscape by going for a paving design that balances brick and grassy areas. It’s an attractive option for those who don’t need a large driveway, leaving room to welcome both form and functionality in its finish. The best part is that it’s a cost-effective alternative since it uses less paving materials.

 

2: Drive-Up the Visual Interest by Adding Concentric Circles

 

Brick or concrete driveways are the perennial favorites thanks to its reliable durability, longevity, and classic appeal, but its look often looks straightforward. Suppose you want to enhance the property and add a unique touch. In that case, you can request professional pavers to lay down the materials in a concentric circle to give a simple layout a much-needed cosmetic upgrade.

 

3: Embrace Eco-Living with Porous Pavers

 

Neighborhoods set in rainy regions means that dealing with a soggy front or backyard is a common occurrence, making it a troublesome feature that only adds to your home maintenance list.

 

For a more relaxed experience, designing your driveway to have porous pavers can leave room for grass to grow in between the material. It introduces a semblance of eco-friendliness to the scene without compromising your convenience.

 

4: Can’t Choose? Play Around with Different Materials

 

Who says you have to choose between asphalt, brick, concrete, pavers, and other driveway materials? If you’re not afraid to go bold with the design, then mixing different materials can help set borders and complement your home’s theme.

 

The Bottom Line: Exploring Driveway Design Ideas Paving the Way For Your Home Remodel

 

The driveway is the one who often takes the brunt of daily wear-and-tear, which means it can easily compromise your curb appeal if it’s left unattended.

 

Why Choose Us?

 

If you need a professional to pave the way for your dream driveway, we’re full-range paving specialists in Poole, UK, who offer bespoke driveway solutions that can beautify your property.

 

Whether the project involves groundworks, general landscape building, block paving, and garden design for domestic and commercial clients, we’re right up your alley! Get in touch with us at 07792 250548 to see what we can do to transform your landscape.

5 Materials You Can Consider When Building Your Driveway in Dorset

Driveway-in-Dorset

When building or upgrading a Driveway in Dorset, one of the most important aspects to consider is the material that it should be made of. That is because there are many different kinds available out there, and each will offer you different benefits and advantages.

 

With that in mind, the right driveway material for you will depend mostly on your needs. For example, concrete may work better for those looking for an affordable solution, while those looking to capitalize on aesthetics may opt for block paving.

 

Here are the different types of materials you can consider when building your Driveway in Dorset:

 

  1. Gravel

 

Gravel has long been associated with luxurious properties, lining endless driveways that add a feeling of sophistication exclusivity. For this reason, many are surprised to know that gravel is one of the cheapest driveway solutions available. That is because they are straightforward to install and are readily available.

 

However, there is one massive drawback to gravel driveways: high maintenance. Because the material is loose, you will need to put in plenty of work to keep your driveway flat. Weeds and plants can also grow in the gaps, requiring plenty of attention to get rid of.

 

  1. Asphalt

 

Asphalt is one of the most commonly used materials in building roads and driveways. However, its popularity has recently been dropping due to some of the problems it poses. For example, if the ambient temperature gets too hot, asphalt can lose its shape and become sticky. It also is not as aesthetically pleasing as many of the other options listed here. The only reason many people use asphalt is its affordability. If you are on a limited budget, you can consider this material.

 

  1. Concrete

 

Like asphalt, concrete is also one of your go-to options if you do not have much money. It is relatively affordable to use on your driveway and is decent at improving its appearance. Unfortunately, it is not free of problems. Poorly installed concrete driveways are known to crack severely due to changing temperatures, so it pays to work with a professional who knows their craft.

 

  1. Imprinted concrete

 

Speaking of concrete, imprinted concrete, also known as decorative concrete, can be used to increase the aesthetics of a driveway. The difference between installing typical concrete driveways and decorative ones is that you can choose what design and colour you want the concrete to be in. This increases the installation cost, so remember to keep that in mind.

 

  1. Resin

 

There are generally two types of resin driveways: bonded and bound. With bonded resin, you enjoy a much cheaper solution at the cost of durability. With bounded resin, you pay a little more but enjoy one that can last a lot longer. Regardless of which one you choose, both varieties are relatively affordable!

 

However, they come with a few problems. For example, they can crack under heat, change colour due to sunlight if they are not UV-stable, and can have unsightly streaks if improperly mixed.

 

  1. Natural stone

 

If money is not a concern, and you are looking for what is arguably the most visually pleasing driveway, natural stone driveways are your best option. They will look visually stunning and stay durable, no matter the time of year.

 

However, if you are looking for an environmentally-friendly option, you may want to avoid natural stone. While they may be natural, the process of collecting them is not!

 

Conclusion

 

There are many other surfaces you can go for apart from those mentioned above, such as grass paving, block paving, and more. Each of these materials come with their pros and cons, and it will be your job to figure out which material can fully satisfy your needs and requirements.

 

Regardless of which option you opt for, be sure to work with professionals. That way, you can make sure you make the most out of your investment, benefiting you with a reliable driveway that will serve you for many years to come.

Absolute Armour & Sons provides specialized building services for domestic and commercial needs, from groundworks and concreting to driveways and more. If you require professionals to help build a Driveway in Dorset, contact us today!

Driveway Specialist – 5 Common Driveway Types in the UK

Driveway Specialist Bournemouth- 5 Common Driveway Types in the UK

The UK has plenty of homes that have varying designs. With residential areas that have properties built from the early 1900s and even more modern renditions, these all require different driveways to preserve their aesthetic. With a variety of driveway options available for UK homes, you have endless possibilities for choosing what fits your new home best. Here are 5 Commons types that your Driveway specialist may suggest.

 

Both residential and commercial establishments can likewise benefit from these, and each will give an added visual value to the overall design. Each type of driveway in the UK varies in price, and building the right one depends on your budget. They also have different maintenance procedures and can add additional value to your property if you decide to sell it in the future.

 

The Different Driveways that are Common in the UK

 

Driveways are pieces of groundwork that are essential in preserving aesthetics and being functional pieces of construction. With the different materials you can use for your driveways, you can find many ways to accent your home. Each of these has varying grip levels, which makes some better for those with cars and other vehicles. Either way, a good groundwork project for the front of a home will provide form and functional features. Here are five driveways you can choose for your house to give it a unique appeal:

 

  1. Concrete

 

Concrete driveways are the most common form, as they are the cheapest to lay down while being easy to install and maintain. They are a popular choice for both urban and suburban areas, as they can last for over 30 years if maintained properly. While these can grow some natural matter like moss and other plants, a good power wash and sweep will keep these clear and safe to use. Chemicals can be used safely to clean out markings from car tyres and even stains from oil and other liquids.

 

An issue residents have with concrete driveways is that it is weak when winter comes around. Due to de-icing and the sharp temperature drops, cracking can occur over the years. However, don’t let this discourage you from getting a concrete driveway, as this very rarely happens to a properly-laid down groundwork foundation.

 

  1. Asphalt

 

Asphalt is commonly used in many roads moving throughout the UK and all over the world. The grip of asphalt is exceptional, and it is also cheaper than concrete. Paving specialists often recommend this material due to its weather-resistant properties and ease of installation. One issue is that it might need more maintenance over the years, but cracks and holes that appear are easy to fill compared to the required replacement for concrete paving. If you do not mind the aesthetics of having an asphalt driveway, this is an excellent choice, as it provides a more cost-effective groundwork foundation.

 

  1. Gravel

 

These driveways are a mix of rock, clay, and sand to give a loose material that is very low-cost but lasts a lifetime. If you have a house that is visually similar to a vacation home, gravel driveways can be an excellent way to give a natural vibe and a different colour tint. This driveway, despite the use of small rock pieces, has a good grip and can provide many UK homes with a nice touch.

 

  1. Brick

 

Brick driveways are aesthetically pleasing, which paving specialists frequently recommend for good visual appeal and grip due to the nature of pavers. They look clean if appropriately done, and it is easy to replace any bricks that crack or shatter due to weather or excess movement from vehicles. Brick looks good with a variety of home designs, and are an elegant way to add value.

 

  1. Cobblestone

 

Cobblestone is distinct in its appeal due to its old-world aesthetic. Historical family homes that were built earlier in the previous century can benefit from a driveway revamp using cobblestone. This paving will preserve the overall visual appearance of the house while being easily replaceable despite its ability to last for decades with proper care.

 

Conclusion

 

Driveway specialists always recommend these five types of driveways to clients who wish to preserve their home’s appearance. With each offering a unique look, these also add value to the overall property as part of its beautification. Choosing the right groundwork paving comes with the maintenance, budgeting, and other components of the paving job, so considering which fits the bill is essential in a good outcome.

 

Absolute Armour & Sons is a Driveway Specialist in the UK that contracts for driveways and groundwork in Bournemouth, Poole, Southampton and other surrounding areas. For the best services in residential and commercial driveways, contact us to turn your home or establishment into a whole new one.