It may seem like an unusual term, but a driveway apron is the section of your driveway where it meets the road. In some ways it resembles the shape of an apron, which is where the name originated. It is also called the approach, which is a nod to the literal curb appeal it presents.
Driveway aprons vary in length and width depending on a variety of factors, such as whether or not there is a sidewalk and the regulations in your neighborhood or community. If you’re considering repairing, replacing, or creating a new driveway apron, there’s a lot you need to know.
Community Regulations and Local Codes
The first step to take if you’re considering making any changes to your driveway apron is to look into the requirements set by your community, city, county, and homeowner’s association (if your neighborhood has one). In most cases your existing driveway apron is grandfathered in and won’t be subject to any new regulations. However, if you are rebuilding or restructuring it, you’ll need to make sure it’s up to code.
Style and Curb Appeal
Driveway aprons range in style from nondescript pavement to brick or cobblestone designs. You can keep it simple or add some charm to liven up your approach. A personalized touch can improve curb appeal, helping your home stand out from the others on your street. It can also add resale value to your home for the future.
A few ideas for driveway apron materials include:
- Cobblestone. Achieve a charming, old world style driveway apron with cobblestone. For ease of installation it comes in mats that can be rolled out with a mosaic of stones that only need to have grout poured into the spaces between them.
- Brick. Though it may take more time to lay out, brick offers a classic style for your driveway apron. If your home is brick, use brick in the apron that matches the color and shape of the brick in your home’s facade, or a contrasting color.
- Stone pavers. Large stone pavers provide a modern look for your driveway apron with a variety of colors and patterns.
- Resin bound gravel. Gravel or loose stone that is bound with resin to form a solid patch can be a unique and colorful addition to your driveway approach.
Benefits of Professional Driveway Installation
Creating or replacing a driveway apron is a job best handled by professionals. There are many benefits to hiring a professional driveway paving contractor to place your apron, such as:
- Knowledge of local codes. One of the trickiest parts of placing a driveway apron is to make sure it is done within the requirements of the local codes for driveways and drainage. If your apron is not up to code, it may have to be redone at your expense. We are familiar with the local requirements for driveways and will take the time to make sure your apron project meets those requirements.
- The right tools and equipment. Creating or replacing a driveway apron requires a lot of equipment and specialized tools to tear up the existing driveway, prepare the foundation, place the materials, and finish it. We already have everything we need for the project.
- Experience. Nothing beats experience in a home improvement project of any kind. As professional driveway pavers have already installed many aprons like the one you want. We know how to make sure it looks beautiful and stands the test of time.
TopWest Asphalt Provides a Full Range of Driveway Paving Services
If you’re looking for a professional paver for your driveway project, TopWest Asphalt has the experience, knowledge, and equipment needed to create an attractive approach to your home. We handle both commercial and residential paving projects in Vancouver, Surrey, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, and the surrounding areas.
Call 604-755-0300 or contact us today for a free estimate.
