While most driveways last for decades, they eventually wear out, forcing homeowners and landlords to give them up and rebuild. Needing a new driveway leads to the next issue: should you replace the old driveway with asphalt or gravel?
If you’re comparing the two driveway styles, consider the differences in style, durability, and cost. Let’s weigh the pros and cons of asphalt driveways and gravel driveways.
Cost
*Costs in this article sourced from estimates by Angi and Homedit.
When it comes to your new driveway’s cost, gravel or crushed stone is likely to be the more affordable option. A typical gravel driveway could cost $1,200 to $1,500.
An asphalt driveway is more expensive than gravel, but the ultimate cost depends on the size. An asphalt driveway could cost from $2,300 to $10,000. The cost difference comes down to the materials: gravel is widely available and doesn’t require specialized equipment or techniques to install, keeping prices low. Asphalt is a processed material made in batches, so pricing fluctuates based on supply and demand. You also need special heavy-duty equipment to install.
Factors influencing an asphalt driveway price include:
The subsurface may need grading, compacting, or an aggregate base layer.
Driveways need 2 to 4 inches of asphalt. More durable driveways are thicker
Materials and labor costs scale with the square footage
Rural areas with fewer asphalt plants may have higher rates
Asphalt pricing is highest in peak paving season
Maintenance and Durability
A driveway’s lifespan depends on weather and soil moisture. Maintenance also plays a role.
With proper maintenance, asphalt driveways usually last 20 to 30 years. Engineers recommend sealing driveway cracks, filling minor cracks every two to four years to prevent water issues. You’ll also need to repair isolated cracks and holes, as needed, with fresh asphalt. Finally, you’ll need to resurface an asphalt driveway every 10 years or so. That involves adding a new layer of asphalt.
Gravel driveways can last for decades, but they require replenishing the crushed stone layer every one to three years. Ruts and potholes also often form with use, age and weather.
Upkeep of gravel driveways involves adding more stone as needed to fill ruts, holes, and low spots. The next step is grading or redistributing material across the driveway using a steel rake or tractor-mounted blade. Lastly, you’ll need to roll over the fresh gravel layer with a compacting machine.
Properly built and maintained asphalt driveways last longer than gravel and need less periodic maintenance.
Safety
It may surprise you to know that gravel driveways can damage vehicles. Besides small rocks getting trapped in wheels, gravel driveways kick up significant dust, which can accumulate in home heating and cooling systems and vehicle air filters. If kicked up by speeding tires, jagged crushed stones can also crack windshields.
Using dense grade crushed stone minimizes most issues. This stone type packs tightly, creates less dust, and causes fewer windshield cracks than open-grade materials.
Properly maintained asphalt driveways don’t usually damage cars or vans. Their smooth paved surfaces are safe for driving.
Appearance
Curb appeal is subjective, but asphalt keeps is black appearance during most of its life. Some homeowners prefer alternative driveway materials for added landscape color and patterns.
Gravel driveways let you incorporate crushed stones in different colors and sizes. For instance, combine regional blue stone with white limestone chips. You can also blend three complementary stones for customization.
Gravel color options include:
Neutral white, gray and tan tones
Speckled black, gray, pink and white
Dark grayish black
Earthy red, brown and neutral tones
For extra flair, install a contrasting stone walkway through the main gravel drive area. This eye-catching detail boosts aesthetic appeal.
Permits
Check local driveway construction permit regulations before starting any driveway replacement project. Many municipalities require permits for new driveway construction, widening or extending an existing one, and repaving a driveway with new materials.
Required permits often cover technical specifications. These include driveway width and curvature, allowable paving materials, drainage and stormwater management, and side setbacks and easements.
Local code enforcement officials can levy fines of $1,000 and higher for unpermitted driveway surfacing projects. Do your homework and obtain the necessary construction approvals.
So, Which Is Better: Gravel or Asphalt Driveways?
If longevity and low maintenance are priorities, asphalt excels. But for homeowners willing to replenish gravel yearly and who want aesthetic versatility, gravel has several pros. The ideal driveway material depends on your priorities, regulations, and budget. Get quotes from local paving contractors for asphalt and gravel. The price estimates allow accurate cost comparisons.
FAQs About Asphalt and Gravel Driveways
How thick should a gravel driveway be?
Gravel thickness of 4 to 6 inches provides solid driveway strength and drainage. Blend dense-grade aggregate stone with smaller chips and dust for maximum compaction.
Can I install a new asphalt driveway myself?
You’re usually better off having paving professionals handle asphalt driveway installations with the right tools and materials. However, homeowners with prior hardscaping experience can tackle DIY gravel driveways, if permitted.
How long do gravel driveways last compared to asphalt?
With proper maintenance, asphalt driveways last 20 to 30 years. Gravel driveways may survive 50+ years before full rebuilds become necessary but require frequent spot repairs and added stone layers in between.
Should I seal my asphalt driveway?
Sealing asphalt driveways every two to three years fills pores and shields against UV rays, chemicals, and excess moisture. A new coat of sealant also restores the dark black color, preventing more costly repairs later.
