Durability and versatility are two of the top features that make interlock driveways a popular choice among property owners in Toronto. If you are looking to install or replace your driveway surface, it helps to compare interlock driveways with asphalt driveways. It is essential to choose a material that can withstand the extreme seasons of the region. Here is a comparison between interlock and asphalt driveways to help you choose the right material.
Interlock Driveways vs. Asphalt Driveways
Cost
When it comes to cost, asphalt requires minimal upfront investment as it is the cheapest material available in the market. However, it becomes the most expensive choice when considering the long-term costs of maintenance and repair. Interlock driveways may have a higher initial cost, but the material is highly cost-effective in the long run.
Design
Many interlock driveway designs are available in different shapes, sizes, colours, and patterns. This allows you to have custom designs that match your property and suit your personal style. When it comes to asphalt, the material is only available in black.
Maintenance
When installing asphalt driveways, you need to apply a seal within the first year and then every three to five years. It ensures protection from UV rays and moisture. Asphalt is vulnerable to moisture that can cause weak spots in the material, so it requires higher maintenance than other driveway materials. Once installed, interlock pavers require only occasional power washing.
Repair
Expansion and contraction can cause cracks in asphalt during cold winters and hot summers. Potholes and cracks require repair. Sometimes, repaving is the only option. Repairing interlock driveways is easier and does not require much effort.
Lifespan
Considering the extreme seasons in Toronto, asphalt driveways last, on average, up to 10 years. Each year, the degree of chips, cracks, and fading increases. Interlock pavers are one of the most durable and long-lasting materials and have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.
Additional Benefits of Interlock Driveways
Fast Installation
You can quickly install interlock driveways within 3 to 4 days. It does not require any heavy machinery or equipment. It also does not require mortar for installation. This allows you to use it right after the installation is complete, unlike asphalt, which needs months to set and get ready for use.
Environmentally Friendly
Asphalt can cause water and chemical runoff, polluting surrounding natural water sources. Interlocking pavers can prevent rainwater from flooding or gathering in one place. It helps create a better drainage system wherein water naturally penetrates the ground. You can also get interlocking permeable pavers to plant vegetation between each grid and improve the drainage.
Safe
Interlocking driveways are one of the safest options for outdoor applications. They preserve their anti-slip and anti-skid properties even when the surface gets oily with the constant moving of the vehicles over them. They don’t get as slippery as asphalt, making them safer to drive on even during heavy rains or snowfalls.
Minimal Risks of Weeds
To prevent the growth of weeds, unwanted plants, and other pests in the narrow spaces of the pavers, you can choose to fill those spaces with polymeric sand. It is a durable option that comes in a wide range of colours and strengthens the entire driveway. It also reduces the maintenance time and costs associated with weed prevention.
How to Increase the Lifespan of Your Interlock Driveway
Focus on Regular Maintenance
Interlock pavers have a lifespan of 30 years. Typically, they need yearly maintenance, which enables them to last longer. After a decade, you may notice the shifting of edge stones or the sinking of specific areas. It is easy to fix these issues without purchasing new pavers. You simply need to remove and clean the affected pavers, add gravel, and reinstall the pavers.
Select Suitable Pavers for Your Application
The durability of the pavers depends on their thickness. A minimum of 60mm to 80mm pavers are used for any residential application. As interlocking experts in Toronto, we recommend using 80mm pavers for parking areas and driveways. Any paver less than 60mm is not suitable for driveways as they are susceptible to cracks due to the weight of a vehicle.
We Offer a Full Range of Interlock Driveways Services
If you are looking for custom interlock driveway designs, you don’t need to look further than Simple Solutions Landscaping. We have over 18 years of experience in interlock driveway installations, including laying the groundwork, paving, and sealing.
If you are looking for residential or commercial interlocking in Toronto or the GTA, call us at 416-271-3503 or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.
