When it comes to crafting the driveway in Melbourne, there are plenty of choices. One favoured option among homeowners is utilising aggregate materials. From gravel to crushed stone, aggregates offer an appeal and long-lasting durability. In this guide, you can explore the charm and functionality of driveways. By gaining insights into types, the installation process, and maintenance tips, you can make well-informed decisions to enhance the overall curb appeal of your home.

Discovering the Possibilities: Varieties of Aggregate Driveways

1. Gravel Driveways: Exposed aggregate driveways in Melbourne, such as this one, present a timeless choice that imparts a natural ambience to any residence. With an assortment of sizes and colours, homeowners have the freedom to craft designs.

2.Crushed Stone Driveways: Crushed stone driveways offer an elegant and contemporary aesthetic while providing exceptional durability. They come in colours that complement architectural styles.

3. Selecting Size and Colour: Homeowners should carefully consider size and colour options that align best with their preferences and existing landscape design.

The Process of Installation

Before installing an aggregate driveway, thorough site preparation is crucial. Here are some steps to follow for the installation and maintenance of driveways.

1. Prepare the area by removing vegetation, levelling the surface and ensuring drainage.

2. Use edging to define the boundaries of the driveway, preventing spreading or erosion over time.

3. Lay down geotextile fabric as a barrier between the aggregates and underlying soil layers. It helps prevent weed growth and maintains integrity by stabilising the base.

4. Choose sub-base materials to prevent the shifting or sinking of aggregates due to heavy loads or weather conditions.

5. Spread the aggregates evenly on the surface using machinery or hand raking. It’s important to achieve both appeal and a sound driveway.

6. Properly compact the aggregates to eliminate air pockets, ensuring stability and finish with a cleanup for a smooth look.

2. Maintenance Tips

These steps will help you install and maintain a durable aggregate driveway.

1. Regularly clean your driveway by sweeping or washing it to keep it free from debris.

2. While geotextile fabric helps control weed growth, occasional weeding may still be necessary. 

3. Applying a sealant can help shield the aggregates from elements like water, UV rays and frost. Regularly sealing the driveway maintains its appearance and extends its lifespan.

4. Over time, small cracks may appear on a driveway. It’s important to address these cracks to prevent them from becoming issues requiring expensive repairs.

Things to Consider When Hiring Professionals

1. Taking the time to research independent contractors ensures that homeowners hire professionals with experience installing driveways. Reading reviews and asking for references provides insights into their work quality.

2. Getting quotes from contractors allows homeowners to accurately compare costs while considering each contractor’s expertise and overall value for money.

3. Before committing to a contractor, it is crucial for homeowners to carefully review contracts, making sure they understand timelines, warranties, payment terms and any potential additional charges.

Environmental Benefits of Aggregate Driveways

1. One notable advantage of driveways is their ability to allow water to permeate through the surface and into the ground.

2. This natural feature for managing water flow is beneficial in preventing runoff and potential flooding problems.

3. Traditional driveways made of asphalt or concrete can contribute to the heat island effect, where urban areas become significantly warmer compared to surrounding areas. 

4. On the other hand, using driveways helps minimise this effect by absorbing less heat, resulting in cooler temperatures.

5. Opting for aggregates as a driveway material promotes sustainability by reducing the need to extract and produce additional materials. 

6. Moreover, aggregates can be recycled from demolished structures and sourced locally from quarries, reducing energy costs associated with transportation.

7. With their surface that facilitates rainwater infiltration, aggregate driveways support the growth of microorganisms and provide an environment suitable for plant growth. 

8. It benefits wildlife such as insects, birds and small animals.

Conclusion

Selecting a driveway enhances visual appeal and offers durability and functionality, greatly enhancing a home’s overall curb appeal. Homeowners who have knowledge about the types of aggregates, steps involved in installation, maintenance tips, and when to hire professionals can confidently improve their driveways. By following this guide, you will have the information to make informed decisions that align with your style and budget while adding long-lasting beauty to your property.