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The Daily Insight

Does a bad driveway decrease property value?

Author

James Craig

Published Apr 06, 2026

Paving a new driveway can add significant value to your property. You can definitely get a great return on your investment. At the very least your property value increase will cover the cost of the driveway. The amount of added value can fluctuate.

Should I pave over my old driveway?

The choice depends on the condition of the existing pavement. Making the wrong choice could lead to more costly repairs. An asphalt overlay is generally recommended when the existing asphalt is in decent shape.

Do I need planning permission to dig a driveway?

You will not need planning permission if a new or replacement driveway of any size uses permeable (or porous) surfacing which allows water to drain through, such as gravel, permeable concrete block paving or porous asphalt, or if the rainwater is directed to a lawn or border to drain naturally.

Can I change my front garden into a driveway?

Once you have obtained permission for your crossover — or after your council has confirmed such permission isn’t necessary — you can convert your front garden into a driveway under permitted development rules, subject to certain conditions.

Is paving a driveway a good investment?

Asphalt driveways can last you 20-25 years if properly installed and maintained – a great investment. While they increase the value of your home, a nice paved driveway can also help sell your home FASTER.

Can you put blacktop over old blacktop?

An overlay or resurface can be used on an asphalt driveway, parking lot, or road way. A tack coat is normally applied on the existing asphalt surface to help the new asphalt adhere to the existing surface. An overlay is usually installed at an average depth of 1.5” to 2” inches thick depending on the project.

Can I widen my driveway entrance?

Q: Can I widen my existing driveway? A: The private portion of an existing paved driveway can be widened, without a permit, up to the paving area limits described in Chapter 6.64 of the County Code.

What is the cheapest material to make a driveway?

Of the four paving materials described in this guide, aggregate (gravel) is the least expensive, followed by asphalt, concrete, and paving stones. If you’re installing your driveway on a shoestring budget, gravel is your best choice.

How long should a blacktop driveway last?

15 to 30 years
Typically, an asphalt driveway lasts 15 to 30 years. This can vary depending on a number of factors including but not limited to: Proper Installation. Type of usage (residential or commercial)

Can you go over blacktop?

Can you blacktop over old blacktop?

The short answer is yes, you can put new asphalt over old asphalt. This can add several years to the surface. An asphalt overlay can last between eight to fifteen years on the surface. When applying asphalt over an old layer, make sure the new layer is at least 1.5 times thicker than the old one.

Can anyone drop a kerb?

Please note, it is illegal to have a dropped kerb constructed by anybody other than ourselves or our approved contractors.

Can I drop my kerb myself?

Can I Drop a Kerb Myself? The majority of local authorities will assign a contractor to complete the job or offer you a list of approved contractors for you to choose from once permission has been granted. Your local council will strongly advise against DIY dropped kerbs.

How much does it cost to replace a driveway apron?

Some municipalities will replace a deteriorating apron for a fee. A concrete paver apron typically costs $3-$12 a square foot for do-it-yourself materials and equipment rental, or $550-$2,160 for 12’x15′. With professional installation, the cost is typically $6-$20 or more a square foot, or $1,100-$3,600 for 12’x15′.

How can I fix a cheap muddy driveway?

The best way to fix a muddy driveway is with TRUEGRID permeable pavers. The permeable pavers offered by TRUEGRID are an inexpensive, durable, effective, and long-lasting solution to muddy driveways.