Trying to figure out what would be the best material for a driveway outside your business? Explore this guide to determine which paving material is best for your commercial property as we compare price ranges, maintenance needs, and the benefits and drawbacks of some of the most popular options.

What Is the Best Material for Your Driveway?

The best driveway material for your commercial property depends on a number of different factors about the property itself.

Aesthetics

The material you use for your commercial driveway is often the first thing your potential customers, clients, or other visitors see about your business. A driveway with quality materials can be a great first impression—while a poorly maintained pavement filled with holes can send a subtle signal to potential customers that you don’t care about safety or quality.

Budget

Cost also plays a major role in helping you find the best material for your commercial driveway. While an experienced paving company can help you get an estimate so you know how much your project will cost, it helps to understand the typical price range for each type of material. Priced highest to lowest, some of the most popular materials for commercial driveways include:

• Pavers: These range from $5–30 per square foot

• Brick: Typically $10–25 per square foot and requires the labor of a bricklayer

• Concrete: Most concrete driveways cost $10–70 per square foot

• Asphalt: Asphalt typically costs $7–15 per square foot

• Limestone: These driveways typically cost $1–2 per square foot

Climate

Each type of driveway paving material is better suited to different climates. For example, asphalt can withstand colder temperatures, but can become soft in hot weather. By contrast, concrete and pavers may have issues in colder weather and can crack if the temperatures become icy enough.

Some types of paving materials are good for multiple types of climates, such as asphalt or brick.

Durability

Some types of driveway materials are naturally more durable and able to withstand the elements than others. On the other hand, some may need to be resealed on a schedule to protect them and improve their longevity.

Best Types of Driveway Material for Michigan

Concrete

Concrete is a popular driveway material choice for both commercial and residential properties because it’s famously low maintenance. It is typically made of a mixture of cement, water, sand, and limestone and is one of the most trusted types of driveway paving materials.

It’s easy to clear snow from a concrete driveway during Michigan’s winters. Even more, concrete is a fairly durable material that can withstand extreme heat and last for decades with proper maintenance.

Asphalt

Asphalt is a petroleum-based material that provides a smooth, practical surface for paving your driveway. It’s typically made with crushed stone or gravel.

Asphalt can withstand many temperature extremes and can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. It has a lower price per square foot than concrete and can be an economical way to keep your driveway safe for visitors or customers. These driveways have to be resealed approximately every 3–5 years.

Pavers

Pavers are flat, stone-like materials that are laid flush against each other. While some can be made of brick or stone, concrete pavers are also available.

Pavers add an air of elegance and beauty to your commercial driveway and can be an inviting way to attract guests. They also come in a huge variety of styles and can contribute to your property’s overall aesthetics and appearance.

Brick

Similar to pavers, brick driveways are made of rectangular clay or concrete bricks. Installing them typically requires the work of a professional bricklayer to ensure the job is done right.

Anyone who has visited a historical area knows that brick driveways can potentially last for decades—or centuries. They’re timeless and are easier for pedestrians to navigate because they are skid-resistant.

Limestone

Among the cheapest materials for driveways, limestone is popular for commercial properties in colder or more remote areas. Limestone for driveways comes in multiple size ranges, from a fraction of an inch in diameter to larger gravel stones over 2 inches across.

Limestone can withstand the elements with very little upkeep and can last longer than almost any other type of paving material. It also costs a fraction of the price of concrete or asphalt and rarely needs repairs.

Ask Us About Your Next Driveway Project

We can be your commercial driveway paving company. Request a quote from the experts at Stoneco today to get the best material for your organization’s driveway.