FT NEWS

Isn’t the driveway leading to a house as important as the interior and exterior of that home? Yet, the driveway is often given a stepmotherly treatment. You can have paving that combines practicality with good looks, adding to the character of your house. After all, this is where your domain begins, and like your house, your driveway is a reflection of your tastes. However, you can design it as fancy as you like but if the floor materials are not suited to the wear and tear typical of this area, then you have a problem on your hands. These materials should have enhanced properties like extreme durability and the toughness to take the load of moving vehicles. Also, they should complement the surroundings and the exterior facade of the building.

Flamed granite
Flamed granite is a smart choice for a driveway, if you want that five-star look and are willing to pay the price. The process of flaming involves the application of a high-intensity flame on the granite surface, which exposes the crystals of the stone and imparts a rough texture that is suited for vehicular movement. It also gives a faded look to the surface. Granite is a hard, dense igneous rock that is non-slippery and fairly easy to maintain (except for regular cleaning) It has a much longer life than bricks or concrete.

Natural sandstone
It is hard to beat the natural look and hard-wearing qualities of natural sandstone. This is a popular choice in outdoor materials in India. It is highly resistant to extreme weather conditions and can bear the weight of heavy vehicles. The best part about sandstone is that it ages very well and looks even more elegant over a period of time.

Kota stone
Kota stone is a budget-friendly and neat-looking option. This stone is available in shades of brown, black and green. It has anti-slip properties, is hard and dense, has a uniform texture and is also good with vehicular load. Also, its non-porous properties make it suitable for humid areas, as it is less vulnerable to algae and fungus.

Terrazzo
Consider a terrazzo floor for a long-lasting, sturdy driveway. This floor goes well with most kinds of building facades and its slabs are available as precast units or can be cast on site.

Terrazzo comprises a mixture of colouring agents and stone chips, such as marble, quartz and granite that are mixed with a cement binder and poured on to an existing concrete floor. After the material is allowed to set, it is polished till it takes on a shiny, smooth surface.

Concrete paver blocks
The primary ingredient for factory-made paver blocks is concrete. These tiles are available in a variety of colours and designs. Concrete pavers are low-maintenance and impart a very neat look to the driveway. They also have an excellent surface drainage quotient as rain water can easily seep through the gaps and joints, recharging ground water. They provide excellent traction for wheels and are easy for walking.

Interlocking pavers
Check out the modular concrete interlocking tiles that are laid on this driveway. These tiles lock into each other like the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, which makes them easy to install without the use of mortar. They are easily removed and reinstalled when putting in underground pipes or cables.

Interlocking tiles are also available as rubber pavers that are made of recycled rubber and are highly slip-resistant. There are many options available when it comes to colours and shapes. They are cheaper than stone but cost more than concrete pavers. But they are kinder on the feet and environmentally friendly (as they are made from recycled materials and let water through to the ground).

Brick pavers
Bricks are another option for an eco-friendly driveway. Brick pavers are made from natural clay and are kiln-baked, so there is less damage to the environment as compared to stone, which involves large-scale quarrying and long-distance freightage. They are locally sourced, reducing their carbon footprint. Like other pavers, they allow rainwater to permeate into the ground. Bricks are a great way to bring warmth and a rich texture to the driveway. However, brick is a fragile material, prone to breakage – but it can be buttressed with concrete edging and cement mortar in the paving, for strength.

Tiles with grass infills
If you are fond of nature and its bounty, consider a part-green driveway or pavement instead of a conventional one. The combination of hard concrete and soft grass is a treat to the eyes and is guaranteed to bring a sense of relaxation. Such driveways effortlessly blend with the landscape and go well in farmhouses or weekend homes.