A driveway is a paved or improved surface providing a route between public roadways and homes or other structures. Driveways typically consist of concrete, asphalt, stone pavers, cobblestones, or gravel. Some driveways may also include a center strip of grass or other landscaping.
The main purpose of a driveway is to provide safe and easy access for vehicles to enter and exit a property. In many cases, driveways also serve as an extension of the home’s outdoor living space and can be used for entertaining, barbecues, and other gatherings.
If your home has a very narrow driveway for your needs, there are many ways to widen it without breaking the bank.
The Distinction Between Driveway Extension and Driveway Paving
Driveway extension refers to adding more length to the driveway by extending the concrete or asphalt surface or adding new paving stones, cobblestones, or gravel.
On the other hand, driveway paving means resurfacing an existing driveway with new concrete or asphalt. It is only necessary if the original driveway surface has become cracked, damaged, or otherwise unusable.
Your budget and personal preferences will determine which option is ideal for your home. A driveway extension can be better if you need something quick and inexpensive. However, paving will give you a superior final result overall, provided you are ready to spend more money and time doing it.
How to Widen Driveway Cheaply
There are a few different ways to widen your driveway without spending a lot of money.
Add Paving Stones or Brick Pavers
If you want a more beautiful driveway, you can add paving stones or brick pavers to the sides of the existing concrete or asphalt surface. By using recycled pavers or second-hand pavers from a home improvement store.
Complementary Gravel Driveway
A gravel driveway extension is one of the inexpensive options to widen your driveway. You can spread new gravel over the existing surface. There is a better alternative than this if you want a finished look, but it can be a good choice if you’re on a budget.
Asphalt or Concrete Driveway Extension
The surface can be extended if your driveway is made of concrete or asphalt. It is more expensive than adding gravel, but it will give you a smoother, finished look.
Pave Over an Existing Driveway
If you have an existing gravel driveway, you can pave over it with concrete or asphalt. It is a more expensive option, but it will give your current driveway a much smoother surface.
Add an Extra Parking Space
If you have multiple cars, you may be able to add an extra parking space. It is usually only possible if you have a large driveway or live on a cul-de-sac.
It’s essential to do it perfectly the first time since a poorly done driveway expansion might reduce the value of your home. Whatever method you choose, always take your time and complete the task right.
Things to Consider Before Widening Your Driveway
Widening your driveway is a great way to improve the look of your home and increase its value. However, it is important to consider the following
so you can widen your driveway cheaply and easily.
Check with Your Homeowners Association or Local Municipality
Before you make any changes to your driveway, be sure to check with your homeowner’s association or the city’s planning department. There may be restrictions to widening your driveway or the materials used.
Driveway Extension Cost
Widening your driveway can be pricey, so consider the cost before you begin. Gravel is usually the cheapest option, while concrete or asphalt will be more expensive.
Choose the Right Driveway Material
The materials you choose for your driveway depend on several factors, including cost, appearance, and durability. Gravel is the cheapest way, but it is not easy to keep clean and won’t last as long as concrete or asphalt.
Concrete is a more expensive option but durable and easy to maintain. Asphalt is between gravel and concrete in terms of cost, but it is not as durable as concrete and can be difficult to repair if it cracks.
Hire a Professional for Your Home Improvement
Widening your driveway is not a do-it-yourself project. Unless you have experience working with concrete, asphalt, or gravel, you should hire a professional to do the job. You can always hire a contractor to do it for you, it is the most expensive option, but it will save you time and effort.
Working with a Professional Paving Company
Pavement Resources offers high-quality and affordable asphalt paving services in Ham Lake, MN. We have over two decades of expertise in paving and are committed to providing our clients with the best possible service.
Our paving company specializes in business and residential paving and offers various services, such as asphalt driveway paving, extension, repair, and maintenance. Pavement Resources is a family-owned and operated business, and we take pride in our work.
Pavement Resources is a great option for anyone who wants the best possible results for their home in Ham Lake, MN. Contact us today for a free estimate!