How To Widen Driveway Cheaply
Navigating a narrow driveway can be an inconvenient challenge for homeowners, often making it difficult to maneuver more than one car or larger vehicles. Fortunately, there is a way to make your driveways wider without breaking the bank – widening your driveway! While this may seem costly upfront, you might be surprised by how much money and time can actually be saved when taking on such projects. Plus, with fewer landscaping or other obstructions in the way of entering and exiting your property now with that extra space from enlarging your driveway, life will become even easier as well.
So how to widen driveway cheaply? If you’re interested to know more, we invite you to continue reading as we’ll outline some of the best strategies for getting a wider driveway on a budget.
Consider Your Options
Before launching into any project, it is imperative to examine all available possibilities. Whether widening your driveway necessitates different methods, materials, or costs depends heavily on how thoroughly you research beforehand. Therefore, taking the time for due diligence before beginning this endeavor pays off significantly.
Several of the top strategies for expanding a driveway are as follows:
- Pouring Concrete Or Asphalt – The most frequently used and expensive route is to demolish existing driveways, pour a new one in its place, and acquire any necessary permits–all of which can add up financially.
- Using Gravel Or Crushed Rock – This is the most cost-effective way of widening a driveway, as gravel or crushed rock are relatively inexpensive materials.
- Creating A Green Driveway With Grass Or Plants – If you are looking for a cost-friendly option to expand your driveway and create an organic, eco-conscious aesthetic, this could be the perfect solution. The installation is simple and requires minimal construction.
- Adding Pavers Or Stones – Although this method is slightly pricier than the rest, it is still a cost-effective way to expand your driveway. Pavers and stones are both beautiful and durable components that can stand up for years with minimal upkeep.
Each choice has its own advantages and disadvantages, with the costs varying greatly. Poured concrete or asphalt often carries the highest price tag but has a longer lifespan. Gravel driveways are cheaper to install but require more frequent maintenance. If you’re conscious of your carbon footprint, green driveways may be for you; however, they might not be suitable in all climates or landscape types. Pavers and interlocking stones can cost more upfront, yet they provide an aesthetically pleasing look that is well worth it.
Evaluate Your Space
After you have determined the different choices available to you, it is essential to analyze your area and assess how much space there is for improvement. Calculate the width of your current driveway, then plan for an additional two feet or more in order to create a larger parking space.
Work With What You Have
An economical way to widen your driveway is by making use of what you already have. If your drive is constructed out of asphalt or concrete, why not extend it further on either side with the same material? This method can be more cost-effective than building an entirely new slab or removing sections from the current one.
Another option is to incorporate gravel, crushed rock, or pavers into the edges of your driveway. This can be an effective way to increase your usable space without spending a lot of money, and it can also create a more attractive and visually interesting look to your driveway.
Use Recycled Materials
If you are in the market to widen your driveway with gravel or crushed rock, consider investing in recycled materials. Not only is this an eco-friendly move, but it can also save you money! Believe it or not, many recycled options have the same aesthetic appeal as brand new ones and cost a fraction of the price. Reducing waste while enlarging your driveway has never been easier.
Another option is to use recycled bricks, pavers, or interlocking stones. Many companies recycle these materials from other construction projects, and using reclaimed pavers or bricks can add character and charm to your driveway.
Choose A Simple Design
While it may be tempting to go for a complex design or fancy materials, these options can be much more expensive. Choosing a straightforward design, such as a basic concrete slab or a plain gravel driveway, can help keep your costs down.
You can always dress up a simple design with plants and landscaping or even use potted plants or raised garden beds at the edges to add greenery and color. Alternatively, you can add borders to plain pavers or interlocking stones to create a more stylish look without breaking the bank.
Why Consult With A Contractor To Cut Cost On Your Driveway Renovation Project
Working with a contractor can be a great way to reduce costs while ensuring that your driveway widening project is done correctly. A good contractor will be familiar with the local building codes and regulations, as well as the best materials and methods for your particular area.
A contractor can also provide valuable advice when it comes to making decisions about design, materials, and costs. By having a clear understanding of your needs and budget, they can help you make the most of your project while staying within your price range.
In addition, a contractor can often secure better prices on materials because they are buying in bulk or have an established relationship with suppliers. This can help lower the cost of your project even further.
Contact Diversified Paving in St. Paul MN today to get started with your project.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, widening your driveway can be an excellent way to improve the look and value of your property. By considering all of your options, evaluating your space, working with what you have, using recycled materials, and consulting a contractor for assistance, you can widen your driveway on a budget and save money in the process.