Considering building a new driveway? What are your material options at the moment? I bet your first ideas were asphalt and concrete. However asphalt and concrete aren’t the most attractive materials to use for a driveway. Are you looking for a more natural, aesthetic, and sustainable finish for your driveway pavers project? We have an alternative for you.
Comparison of driveway pavers materials
In our article, we will be comparing the following driveway materials:
- concrete pavers
- rubber pavers
- wood pavers
Our comparison focal areas will be evolving around durability, sustainability & surface temperature to make the most informed decision. In today’s climate, we believe it is vital to take sustainability into consideration.
Concrete driveway pavers
A lot of homeowners are turning away from concrete as a means of paving their driveways. The reason behind this lies mainly in its durability. Concrete is affected by freeze-thaw and movements in the ground which will cause it to crack over time.
Concrete and asphalt aren’t the most eco-friendly materials either. Several pavement companies have little interest in disclosing environmental information. Production of concrete and brick pavers requires lots of energy and therefore has a high embedded carbon content.
As for surface temperature, research shows that concrete pavements can reach peak summertime temperatures of 145*F. Which is so hot you might actually be able to fry an egg on it.
A private residence in Brooklyn NY with ProFlow Permeable Pavers™ made of sustainable Black Locust wood.
Rubber driveway pavers
Rubber pavers are very durable, they will not crack or freeze during harsh winter weather.
Though some rubber pavers are made from recycled content, it is created with the use of a lot of energy. Their environmental impact is high since their production causes severe air pollution.
On hot summer days, rubber pavers may reach an unbearable temperature of 170*F, giving it a lower resistance to heat than concrete or asphalt.
Wooden driveway pavers
Selecting the right type of wood for your driveway is essential. Black Locust Lumber’s ProFlow Permeable Pavers™ is made of sustainable Black Locust wood that can withstand severe weather conditions. ProFlow Permeable Pavers™ also have a life span greater than 50 years.
The best driveway pavers option when looking for the most sustainable solution is Black Locust wood pavers, as it has a minimum carbon footprint. Black Locust is becoming very popular for exterior use in landscaping. It is water-resistant, rot-resistant, and has anti-fungal properties. All without the help of any toxic chemicals. No oils, stains, or paint are necessary to maintain its beauty and its carbon footprint is way lower than any manmade product available.
Black Locust hardwood driveway pavers surface is softer and cooler on the feet compared to concrete. Google, Assembly at North First, San José, CA
Permeable pavements made of sustainable Black Locust wood are emerging as cool pavement and thus a solution for climate change. These wood driveway pavers allow air, water, and water vapor into the voids of the pavement. They are also great with stormwater management and will thus prevent your driveway from flooding.
Summary on driveway pavers material comparison
There are several factors that you should take into account when choosing the best driveway pavers material. Rule out the options that will simply be too hot to walk on during the summer heat. Taking all pros and cons into account, the most sustainable, durable option that is cool on the feet is wood pavers (Learn more on the website: ProFlow Permeable Pavers™).
