What are the Pros and Cons of a Stone Driveway?

Not every homeowner enjoys the look of the typical paved driveway, which is why some might go with a stone driveway instead. Like any other material, there are pros and cons of this type of surface. One benefit is that different shades are available since stones usually vary in color, allowing a customized look for the home. This kind of material is usually cheaper than other surfaces, and typically allows easy drainage from the driveway. Unfortunately, it does require some maintenance, including weed removal and regular leveling to keep it safe and looking its best.

Though it is often assumed that stones are typically gray, there are other options, making a stone driveway customizable. Some homeowners like rock that matches their home, while others prefer that the stone and house color contrast. Some of the most common shades of rocks are brown, gray, black, or tan, with various hues that fall in between the main colors. Since most houses are similar colors, it should be easy to find rock that goes well with the house, if that is the goal. It is not usually possible to do the same with concrete or dirt driveways.

Another advantage of a stone driveway is that it is often cheaper to install than other surfaces. In most cases, homeowners can purchase the material and then spread it themselves, allowing them to save money on labor. By contrast, most concrete driveways require homeowners to hire a professional to purchase and pour the material. The ability to skip this expense often allows those who normally could only afford a dirt driveway to have a more attractive surface, with better traction in wet weather. Additionally, a stone driveway is a cheap way to ensure that there is drainage in the area so that rainwater does not build up like it might on concrete.

Of course, there are some disadvantages of having a stone driveway, with the main one being high maintenance. For instance, weeds often grow in between the rocks unless the surface is regularly sprayed with herbicide to prevent this problem. Just pulling weeds is often not enough since this action can result in small holes in the stone driveway. Both small and large potholes can be bothersome, as they may cause wheels to become stuck, and do not look attractive in general. It is important that potholes be promptly filled with rocks and then run over with a car to compact them in order to keep the whole stone driveway level.