Best Driveway Materials for Long-Term Durability

Your driveway is more than just a practical parking space—it’s one of the first things people notice about your property. While appearance matters, it’s equally important to choose a material that can withstand the demands of daily use and the ever-changing British weather. Whether you’re building a new driveway or replacing an old one, selecting the right surface will ensure you get a long-lasting return on your investment.

At Crown Paving and Landscaping Ltd, we specialise in professionally installed driveways across Eastbourne and the surrounding areas. In this blog, we explore the best driveway materials for long-term durability, helping you make an informed choice that combines strength, style, and value.

What Makes a Driveway Durable?

Before diving into material options, let’s first consider what “durability” means in the context of a driveway. A durable driveway should:

• Withstand frequent vehicle traffic without cracking or deforming

• Resist erosion, weeds, and water damage

• Handle seasonal freeze-thaw cycles

• Require minimal ongoing maintenance

• Last 15+ years with proper installation

The best driveway materials tick all of these boxes—and more.

1. Resin Bound Driveways

Resin bound surfacing has become a go-to option for homeowners seeking a combination of durability and modern visual appeal. It consists of natural aggregate stones bound together with clear resin, creating a smooth, permeable surface.

Why It Lasts:

• Flexible and crack-resistant: It absorbs light ground movement without breaking

• Permeable: Rainwater drains through the surface, reducing pressure from standing water

• UV-stable: High-quality resins are resistant to colour fading over time

When installed by professionals, resin bound driveways can last over 20 years, making them one of the most durable solutions available today. They’re also low maintenance, weed-resistant, and available in a wide range of colours.

2. Block Paving

Block paving remains one of the UK’s most popular driveway options—and for good reason. Made from concrete or clay bricks, block paving is laid in interlocking patterns over a solid sub-base.

Why It Lasts:

• Individual blocks can be replaced: Making repairs easy and affordable

• High load-bearing strength: Especially when laid in a herringbone pattern

• Excellent drainage: When installed with permeable joints or proper run-off

Properly installed and maintained block paving driveways can last 25 years or more. Regular sweeping and re-sanding of the joints are all it takes to keep it looking and performing at its best.

3. Tarmac (Asphalt)

Tarmac driveways are ideal for homeowners looking for a practical, no-nonsense solution that doesn’t compromise on strength. Tarmac is made by combining crushed stone with tar and is rolled out over a prepared base.

Why It Lasts:

• Hard-wearing and impact-resistant: Perfect for frequent car use

• Quick installation: Ideal for large or sloping driveways

• Economical to repair: Cracks can be patched easily

Tarmac surfaces typically last 15 to 20 years, especially when a high-quality sub-base is used and the edges are well-supported. Although not as decorative as other options, it’s one of the most cost-effective for long-term use.

4. Gravel Driveways

Gravel may seem like an old-fashioned choice, but it still offers excellent durability when properly installed and maintained. It consists of loose, crushed stone, often contained by edging or a stabilising grid system.

Why It Lasts:

• Great drainage: Rainwater naturally filters through

• Resistant to cracking: As there’s no solid surface

• Easy to top up: Gravel can be replenished when compacted

Gravel driveways can last 20+ years, particularly when installed with a geotextile membrane to prevent weed growth and maintain the surface. While it requires more upkeep than other options (like occasional raking), its longevity makes it a viable choice.

5. Concrete Driveways

Concrete is one of the strongest materials available for driveways. It offers a smooth finish and can be stamped or coloured for added visual appeal.

Why It Lasts:

• Extremely durable: With proper sealing and jointing

• Resistant to heavy loads: Suitable for larger vehicles

• Low maintenance: Requires only occasional cleaning and sealing

A concrete driveway can last 30 years or more, but it must be laid correctly to prevent cracking and water pooling. As concrete is impermeable, it’s essential to incorporate drainage channels.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Property

Each driveway material has its own strengths, and the right one for your home depends on several factors:

• Budget: Tarmac and gravel are more affordable upfront, while resin and block paving have higher initial costs but offer long-term value

• Aesthetics: Resin and block paving offer more design options; gravel and tarmac are more understated

• Drainage: Resin and gravel are ideal for permeable surfaces

• Maintenance: Resin and concrete are the easiest to care for

• Vehicle Load: Concrete and block paving handle larger vehicles well

If you’re unsure which surface is right for your needs, our expert team is happy to advise based on your property, budget, and preferences.

Why Choose Crown Paving and Landscaping Ltd?

At Crown Paving and Landscaping Ltd, we take pride in delivering high-quality, long-lasting driveway installations across Eastbourne and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for a sleek resin bound finish, a robust tarmac drive, or a timeless block paved surface, we have the knowledge and experience to get it right—first time.

Our driveways are built to withstand the test of time, thanks to careful preparation, premium materials, and attention to every detail.

Request Your Free Quote Today

Ready to install a durable new driveway? Contact Crown Paving and Landscaping Ltd today to arrange a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll assess your space, recommend the best materials for long-term performance, and deliver a surface that looks fantastic and lasts for years.