How much value does a driveway add to a house?

There are many benefits of having a driveway; providing easy access to your property, easily able to keep an eye on your car, effortlessly hop in and out whenever you need to, and they tend to be far easier to maintain than gardens or lawns. Having a driveway can also potentially lower your car insurance premiums, compared to parking on the street.

But the key question is – does a new driveway add value to a house? In most cases, yes it does.

Read on to find out whether you can boost your property value with a new driveway, including the best type to choose.

How much value could a driveway add to your house?

In most cases, a driveway almost always adds some value to a property. In terms of how much value, it really depends on where you live. Also, what size of driveway you build.

The following factors can play a part:

• The availability of free parking within your neighbourhood and nearby
• Whether permit parking is available on your street and how expensive it is
• How many vehicles can be comfortably parked on your new driveway, in proportion to the size of the house
• Whether there is demand for off-street parking in your area
• Whether you live on a busy main road or a quiet cul-de-sac
• Whether your neighbours also have off-street parking

On average, it’s estimated that laying a driveway can add between 5-10% to the value of a property. So, depending on the factors above, this could mean the chance to add thousands of pounds to the listing price of your home.

Paved driveway value

A paved driveway is an excellent choice for adding value to your home, as well as providing you with a great looking, highly functional driveway.

Paved driveways create a smart first impression for any home. They offer a smooth, flat surface, but with the finer detail that comes with using a skilled craftsperson. When laid and finished correctly, they simply scream quality. This says to future buyers that this is a quality driveway that will last for years, requiring hardly any maintenance.

However, paved driveways aren’t the cheapest option, compared to the cost of other driveway materials. They take some time and skill to lay. However, you should end up with a quality finish that lasts for years and adds value to your home.

Concrete driveway value

Concrete is much quicker to lay than other types of driveway, such as block paving for example. It can be easily poured into whatever design you have in mind, and even finished with an appealing imprinted pattern.

The relative cheapness of concrete driveways means that it can initially be seen as good value for money. However, concrete lacks the craftsmanship and fine detail of other paving types.

Plus, concrete can often look as cheap and cheerful as it is. Unless maintained or resurfaced, its appearance can deteriorate significantly over time This can affect its value, and the kerb appeal of your house.

Block paved driveway value

Block paved driveways have some serious kerb appeal. If installed with skill and care, they can look amazing. You’ll have a huge range of design, colour and style options to choose from, all of which can enhance the exterior appearance of your property. Needless to say, this can add value.

Block paving and cobblestones are also known to be very long-lasting and quite easy to maintain. If any pavers come loose, they can be easily repaired or replaced in small patches. Durability is another plus point for potential buyers, along with low maintenance.

So, how much value does a driveway add when it’s made from block pavers? It all depends on how much you spend – as it can be quite labour intensive to build a block paved driveway – and the quality of the finish.

Asphalt driveway value

Asphalt or tarmac driveways are quite cheap and quick to lay, and they can be a handy option if you need a basic solid flat surface without much fuss. In short, they provide a uniform appearance and can be a good short-term solution.

But they don’t look as appealing as other driveway types when finished. A major issue is with maintenance and deterioration. Asphalt is vulnerable to the extremes of the great British weather, meaning that cracks, chips and even potholes can start to form. These can be difficult and expensive to repair if you want to get a good finish.

In a nutshell, asphalt driveways are cheap to install but don’t score too highly on looks or longevity. This can affect how much value they add to your property, and how appealing your home will be to potential buyers.

Gravel driveway value

Gravel is one of the cheapest types of driveway to install, and it can also look very attractive. Gravel driveways are also good from a security perspective.

Many people like them because they aren’t permanent, unlike tarmac or concrete, so you could choose a different driveway later on. You’ll need to find a way to manage the stones, so they don’t end up all over the street, and gravel driveways are no use at all on sloping sites.

In terms of adding value to your property, gravel is a pretty decent option. You won’t spend much on it, there aren’t any worries about durability and it can be aesthetically pleasing to buyers. And there’s always the opportunity to install a different driveway later on.

Choose multiple driveway materials

Trendy gravel, block paved edge, and cleft post and rail fence

This trendy gravel, block paved edge, and cleft post and rail fence was completed by our very own Peter Beasley and his team in Hampshire.

The front previously was unsightly with overgrown bushes and uneven slabs, which had become a trip hazard. Now though it’s a clean look with gravel and a smart block paved edge.

The cleft post and rail fence is a nice rustic touch, with the front being finished by a line of laurel hedging.

This driveway shows that anything is possible. Even though the gravel and block paved edge is a cheaper option to a fully block paved driveway, it is expected to still add around 5-10% to the property’s value.

How to build the perfect driveway – and mistakes to avoid

To create a functional, practical and good-looking driveway, you need to get the fundamentals right.

This means – preparation, proper installation and carefully planned drainage. You need to think about permeability and where rainwater will drain to. This can help you avoid unsightly puddles, or even falling foul of planning permission rules.

The better the installation and finish, the longer the driveway will last and the more value it will add to your property. You’ll also need to think about other things such as dropped kerbs and the required maintenance for your driveway type.

Lastly, it’s time to think about decorative touches which can further enhance your driveway’s value-adding properties. Here are some fabulous finishing touch ideas, to help inspire your gorgeous new driveway.

How much would it cost to re-do your driveway?

The cost of your driveway will really depend on the size of your drive and the style of driveway you choose.

Do check out our driveway cost guide for more information on costs. Costs vary from £30 – £90/m2 for a new driveway.

Takeaways:

• A driveway typically adds 5-10% value to your home.
• Your location and nearby parking availability is one of the biggest factors affecting how much value a driveway can add to your property
• Think about the initial cost per m2, the longevity and the aesthetic appeal when choosing a driveway type
• Don’t forget about maintenance – if you can’t keep your driveway looking great, it could start to drag the value of your property down.
• For a value-adding finish, always use a trusted expert to install your driveway.