How to Choose the Right Driveway for You and Your Home

How to Choose the Right Driveway for You and Your Home

A new driveway can make a huge difference to your property — not just in how it looks, but in how it works for your day-to-day life. Whether you’re upgrading a tired surface, fixing drainage issues or simply want to boost kerb appeal, it’s worth taking the time to choose the right option for your home and lifestyle.

At RM Driveways, we work with homeowners across Plymouth, Ivybridge, South Brent and the wider South Hams area to deliver driveways that are both practical and built to last. Here’s our guide to help you decide what’s right for you.

---

1. Consider How You Use Your Driveway

Start by thinking about how your driveway needs to perform.

• Do you need parking for one or multiple cars?
• Do you reverse in or out?
• Are you often walking or wheeling bins over it?
• Is there a slope or drainage issue?

Practicality is key. The best surface is one that fits your daily routine and requires minimal upkeep over time.

---

2. Match the Style to Your Property

A well-designed driveway complements your home — not clashes with it.

• Period or cottage-style homes often suit block paving or gravel, with softer tones and traditional edging.
• Modern or new-build homes can look striking with resin-bound finishes or clean tarmac lines.
• Consider existing garden walls, fencing, or pathways when choosing colours and layout.

Our team can help you visualise options using samples and past projects.

---

3. Compare Surface Options

Here’s a quick breakdown of the driveway types we install at RM Driveways:

✅ Block Paving

• Classic look with lots of colour and pattern options
• Great for creating character or matching existing paths
• Easy to repair individual blocks
• Works well with steps, borders and multi-level areas

✅ Tarmac

• Hard-wearing and cost-effective
• Fast to install and low maintenance
• Can be dressed up with kerb stones or gravel edging
• Ideal for sloped or high-traffic driveways

✅ Resin-Bound

• Smooth, modern finish in a wide range of colours
• Fully permeable (no puddles!)
• Great for accessibility and contemporary homes
• Can be installed as an overlay or full new system

✅ Gravel

• Traditional feel with good drainage
• Budget-friendly and quick to lay
• Suitable for rural homes or large driveways
• Can be combined with paved areas or stabilised mesh for a cleaner finish

Still not sure? We’re happy to walk you through the pros and cons for your site.

---

4. Don’t Forget Drainage and Edging

Good drainage is essential — especially here in Devon where heavy rain is common. We install ACO channels, soakaways and permeable surfaces where needed, and always ensure levels are correct to avoid standing water.

Edging also plays an important role in defining your driveway and holding everything in place. Choose from block borders, kerbs, natural stone or timber.

---

5. Factor in Budget and Long-Term Value

A driveway is an investment. It adds value to your home and improves your daily life. While gravel is the most budget-friendly option, resin and block paving offer excellent curb appeal and longevity. Tarmac gives great value per m² for larger spaces.

Remember — repairing a failing driveway year after year often costs more than starting fresh with something built properly.

---

6. Get a Free Quote and Site Visit

At RM Driveways, we don’t do guesswork. We offer free, no-obligation site surveys and expert advice tailored to your property. Whether you’re in Plymouth, Plympton, Ivybridge or anywhere in the South Hams, we’re ready to help.

We’ll advise on:

• Best surface for your budget and lifestyle
• Site preparation and groundwork
• Colour and style options
• Drainage solutions
• Timescales and access

---

Ready to Transform Your Driveway?

Choosing the right driveway doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right advice and proper installation, it can completely transform the look and feel of your home.

📞 Call us on 07936 369163
📩 Contact us for your free quote
📍 Local to Plymouth, Ivybridge, South Brent and the South Hams
📸 See our recent projects