How To Use Paving at Your House To Create a Great First Impression

When you think of creating a great first impression with your home, you probably think of flowers, colors of paint, and textures of building materials. One item you may tend to overlook — and which can make a huge difference in the appearance of your house — is paving.

Driveways

You’d be amazed at how a smooth new driveway can affect the look of your house. Instead of oil stains and weeds growing in cracks, the road to your house will show the world a seamless expanse of perfectly laid asphalt. Even as the years go by, your paving expert will be able to repair imperfections inexpensively, keeping it looking almost new. Black is the usual color, but you can get creative.

A concrete driveway is also attractive and can be tinted or etched to produce desired effects. Although it lasts longer than asphalt, it costs more, and in cold weather, it tends to crack in ways that cannot be effectively repaired. You’ll also have to avoid using a salt-based deicer in the winter.

Sidewalks and Pathways

The paving in front of your home may include a walkway to your front door. This path leads the eye to the entrance to your home, and if it’s cracked, weedy, or esthetically displeasing, it isn’t showing your home to its best advantage.

Asphalt can be a good choice for sidewalks — it’s quick, inexpensive, durable, and versatile. It can even be stamped to look like vintage cobblestone or brick. It doesn’t need expansion joints as concrete does, and it can be rolled out in a single, undivided river of walkway. The lack of joints means that it’s hard for water to penetrate and damage the sidewalk.

Smooth paving in your driveway and front yard shows that you understand the importance of a well-maintained home. Be sure you don’t overlook the pavement when you’re busy smelling the flowers!