Not Just In The Kitchen: The Stone That Makes A Stunning & Eco-Friendly Driveway Material

From countertops and backsplashes to shelves and sinks, stone slabs have so many common uses in the kitchen that we almost forget that they're made of rock — an element that naturally belongs outdoors. In particular, granite, the same material many seek for the heart of the home, is actually ideal for the driveway. When it comes to choosing the perfect material for your driveway, you want something both functional and stylish, and granite offers the best of both worlds.

Granite is a natural stone, meaning it won't introduce synthetic chemicals to your outdoor space. Plus, because it is long-lasting, installing it won't contribute to the endless buy-and-replace cycle, lowering your environmental footprint. It is an eco-friendly option for those wanting to design their home with sustainable materials. 

Aesthetically speaking, the stone comes in a variety of colors, catering to every design taste and architectural style. Granite stone driveways are durable, low maintenance, and visually appealing. Unlike a polished kitchen countertop slab, the three main types of granite available for driveways — crushed stone, pavers, and cobblestone — are more rugged and robust. Each varies in price, longevity, and installation process, yet all last for decades with little care.

The crushed stone type, resembling fine gravel, is called decomposed granite. For the driveway, resin-coated decomposed granite is the best option, as it withstands heavy foot and vehicle traffic. Since it stays in place better, it's also suitable for sloped areas. It is the least expensive of the three types, costing roughly $2 to $4 per square foot, and it lasts at least 20 years with proper cleaning and topping off. To avoid weeds, shifting stones, and compaction (which inhibits drainage), you should excavate the driveway surface and lay down landscaping fabric before installing the decomposed granite. The driveway should then be stabilized with paver edging.

Granite pavers offer a cleaner, more uniform look. Thanks to their textured surface, they are slip resistant and don't scratch easy, while a sealant application can protect them from stains. At $8 to $15 per square foot, pavers are double the price of crushed granite, but they last longer and require less maintenance. You can also match them to patio floors or outdoor kitchen islands.

Cobblestone is the most durable type of granite driveway material, one that's capable of delivering that classic rustic look for over 40 years. Care-wise, cobblestone only requires simple cleaning to tackle dirt and refilling the joints with sand as needed. This surface is slip resistant, so it's ideal for areas with heavy rainfall or icy conditions. Their lifespan and the skilled labor needed to install them make these stones the most expensive granite option available, at $12 to $20 per square foot. Regardless of the style, if you want a material to use on your driveway that goes beyond concrete, granite is a great natural option that boosts curb appeal and creates a long-lasting hardscape.