If you live in Plymouth, chances are your driveway takes a bit of a beating. Between the rain, the salty sea air and the daily wear from cars, it needs to be tough as well as easy on the eye. But with so many materials to choose from, how do you know which one is right for your home?
Whether you are upgrading a tired old driveway or starting fresh, here’s a look at the top five driveway materials Plymouth homeowners love. Spoiler alert: some will fit your budget better, others will win on looks, but all have their place.
- Resin Driveways
Resin is the new kid on the block that everyone is talking about. It is basically a mix of natural stones bound together with resin to create a smooth, seamless surface.
Why Plymouth homeowners love it:
- Looks stylish and modern with loads of colour options.
- Fully porous, so puddles vanish instead of sticking around.
- Low maintenance, just sweep and jet wash now and again.
- Can last 20 years or more when properly installed.
The downside: It costs more upfront than some other options, but the finish and longevity make it a solid investment.
- Block Paving
Block paving is a classic for a reason. Neat bricks or blocks laid in patterns give your driveway a timeless look.
Why it works well in Plymouth:
- Huge choice of colours, shapes and patterns.
- Easy to repair, just swap out individual blocks if they get damaged.
- Looks great with traditional and modern homes alike.
- Can handle heavy use from cars without cracking.
The catch: Weeds love to creep in between the blocks if you don’t keep on top of the maintenance. A bit of sweeping, re-sanding and occasional sealing keeps it looking sharp.
- Tarmac
Simple, reliable and cost-effective, tarmac has been a go-to driveway material for decades.
Why Plymouth households still choose it:
- Quick to install, so less disruption.
- Cheaper than resin or block paving.
- Strong and durable enough for daily car use.
- Works well on big driveways where budget matters.
What to know: It is not the most glamorous option, and it can fade over time. Regular sealing helps keep it in good shape.
- Gravel
Gravel is the old-school option, and while it might not suit every home, it has some clear benefits.
Why gravel is worth considering:
- It is the cheapest material upfront.
- Easy to install and top up if needed.
- Creates a crunchy sound when walked or driven on, which some people like for security.
- Good drainage, so no puddles forming.
The downside: Gravel loves to travel. You will be sweeping it off the pavement or pulling it out of flowerbeds. It also needs topping up regularly and is not ideal if you want a neat, modern look.
- Concrete
Concrete often gets overlooked, but it is a tough contender. It can be plain and practical or stamped and coloured for a more stylish effect.
Why Plymouth homeowners pick it:
- Very durable and long-lasting.
- Low maintenance compared to gravel or block paving.
- Can be customised with patterns and finishes.
- Handles the local weather without fuss.
The drawback: If it cracks, repairs can be tricky and sometimes costly. It also doesn’t have the charm of block paving or resin unless you go for decorative options.
Choosing the Right Driveway for Your Plymouth Home
So which one should you go for? That depends on what matters most to you:
- Want modern, sleek kerb appeal? Go for resin.
- Prefer a classic, timeless look? Block paving wins.
- Watching the budget? Tarmac or gravel will get the job done.
- After something low maintenance and hard-wearing? Concrete could be the answer.
The trick is to balance your budget with the style you want and how much effort you are prepared to put into maintenance.
Final Thoughts
Driveways might seem like a practical necessity, but they are also one of the first things people notice about your home. Choose the right material, and you will not only make life easier but also boost your kerb appeal.
If you are ready to transform your driveway, check out Landart Drives and Patios for expert advice and professional installation of Plymouth driveways. Whether you want resin, block paving, tarmac or something else entirely, their team can help you find the perfect fit for your home.