Need help deciding which driveway would suit your needs? We’ve put together a list of some of the most popular types of driveways in Australia. Whether your current driveway is starting to wear, or simply doesn’t match the facade of your home, you’ll be surprised how much a new driveway can uplift the look of your whole house — potentially adding value to your home. The type of driveway you need will differ depending on the location, requirements and budget.
To help you navigate all your different driveway options, we’ve done the research for you and put it all in one handy guide.
Photo by Blake Wheeler on Unsplash
5 Types of Driveways in Australia
1. Brick driveways.
Brick or paver driveways are a popular driveway choice for many Australians, especially those living in the more affluent areas of the country. Pavers are a popular option as they allow the homeowner to add patterns, colouring and overall personality to the entrance of their home, while being easy to clean with a pressure washer.
The main downfalls of brick driveway is their tendency to become unlevel and move as the earth underneath shifts. This can be a particularly large problem if you live in an area built on sand or old swamp land. On top of this, poorly constructed brick driveways tend to have weeds pop up between the brickwork, so always talk to an expert.
How much does a brick driveway cost?
Usually, when installing a brick driveway, you’ll pay by square meter, plus labour. In Australia, the average cost for installation, labor and materials combined is $95 per square meter.
2. Gravel driveways.
Gravel driveways are a simple and quick solution for the DIY homeowner. They can look particularly stylish when framed with concrete edging or combined with pavers to create a custom pattern.
Australia has come a long way from the traditional blue metal driveway. Driveway stones are now available in many different colours and sizes. Gravel driveways are an easy solution if you have a pre existing carport.
The main downfall to gravel driveways is the consistent maintenance required. Stones tend to escape their edging or get carried out on car tyres, meaning you’ll have to top-up your gravel every few years.
How much does a gravel driveway cost?
Gravel driveways are by far the cheapest driveway option in Australia. Often able to be laid without professional assistance, a gravel driveway will set you back around $15 per square metre, depending on your gravel of choice.
3. Asphalt driveways.
Asphalt driveways are everything you’d want in a driveway — solid, weather resistant, long lasting and cost effective. However, they are not the best looking option. When and if your driveway begins to crack, you may find yourself in a bit of a pickle, with repairs becoming costly.
How much does an asphalt driveway cost?
The average cost of an asphalt driveway is $40 per square meter. However, this price does not cover the cost of installation, which must be done by professionals due to the nature of the material in use.
4. Concrete driveways.
Concrete driveways are the most popular choice for most Australians. They’re versatile, easy to clean and long lasting and customisable. This type of driveway can be painted or even imprinted to resemble tiling.
One of the most common problems with concrete driveways is they will need to be installed by a professional concreter. If you live in an area built on sand or old swamp land, you may need a deeper foundation as ground in those areas is more likely to move causing cracks and faults to occur.
How much does a concrete driveway cost?
In Australia, the average cost of a concrete driveway is $40 per square meter. This does not include labor or other associated costs.
5. Pebblecrete driveways.
Pebblecrete driveways were very popular in Australia during the ‘90s, but are slowly making a comeback. Traditionally made from natural tones, pebblecrete is now available in many different colours and stones. The texture of pebblecrete makes it non-slip, weed-resistant and easy to clean.
The main downfall of pebblecrete is the cost, as you’re about to see.
How much does a pebblecrete driveway cost?
A pebblecrete driveway will set you back about $80 per square meter for the standardised design. You’ll also need to budget in labour and material costs, as well as if your driveway is sloped.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driveways
How do you get oil off your driveways?
How you remove stubborn oil from your driveway depends on the type of driveway. If you’re lucky enough to have a concrete or brick driveway, simply wash the oil away with a pressure washer, detergent and scrubbing brush.
Still having trouble? Head to your local hardware store and grab some degreaser. Ensure to follow the product directions to remove the remaining oil.
How to build a driveway?
Firstly, building a driveway is not a simple task. If you’re after a professional, good looking and council-approved driveway, you’re best to consult your local driveway contractor. The process used to build a driveway will depend greatly on material being used.
5 steps to building a concrete driveway:
- Before picking up the tools, it’s essential to check for any underground obstructions or utilities, including water pipes, electricity lines or internet cabling. If you’re planning to change the location or dimensions of an existing driveway, you may need to seek council approval before proceeding. The best way to find out your local area requirements is to speak to a representative of your local council or a driveway contractor.
- After all necessary paperwork has been completed, mark out the boundaries of the new driveway. If there is a pre-existing driveway in place, now is the time for removing the old surface.
- Next, the area needs to be prepped to lay the new driveway. For the fastest results, you’ll likely require an excavator to ensure the foundations of the driveway are level. Using wooden planks, or like material will re enforce the project area.
- The area should now be filled with sand and gravel to stabilise the foundations. Using the excavator, compact the sand, gravel and soil to create a level base.
- Lay reinforcing mesh or bars and begin pouring the concrete. Once the area is filled with concrete ensure it is level. Allow the concrete to set before using your new driveway.
What is the cheapest type of driveway?
The cheapest type of driveway is al-naturel, but most of us don’t fancy the idea of parking our cars in a cocktail of dirt, mud, grass and the occasional weed every day. Gravel driveways are traditionally the most affordable option for Austrailans, although they do require regular maintenance and are hard to clean. If gravel is not for you, the next cheapest option is asphalt.
How many driveways can a house have?
Depending on your local council you may be allowed a second entrance. However, it’s essential you check with local governing bodies i.e. your local council, before commencing any work, as an additional driveway is often not allowed in metropolitan areas.
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