It's Time To Dump Concrete: A More Elegant Material To Elevate Your Driveway's Apron

The kitchen is often the first spot that comes to mind at the mention of aprons. There are cute aprons to protect your clothes while you cook, and the option of farmhouse or apron sinks when you want to upgrade. But this time, we're taking the conversation outdoors to the edge of your property. That's where your driveway apron resides. It's the small section at the end that connects your driveway to the road. And while it's normally plain concrete, some homeowners are changing it up by replacing that section with stone pavers. 

Why stone? Of course, everyone has different tastes, but stone is often associated with an elegant, elevated look when compared to plain concrete. With so many stone materials, colors, shapes, and sizes, the look can vary significantly and align with your home's overall style. You're also creating a textured surface with the individual pavers that draws attention to your home. It's a unique way to greet your guests as they approach your driveway.

But it's also a good functional choice. Many natural stones and pavers are durable enough to stand up to vehicle traffic, which makes them suitable structurally. That's important because the apron handles all of the weight load and distribution of every vehicle that turns into your driveway. If it's not properly constructed or made from durable materials, you could end up with cracks, crumbling, potholes, and other damage.

When you're ready to ditch the concrete for a stylish alternative on your driveway, this project proves you don't have to tear up the entire surface. But it might not be right for every home. In fact, you might not have the option to install pavers on your driveway apron. Since it's the portion that's beyond your sidewalk, you may not actually own it, even if you're responsible for maintaining it. And since the municipality could be the rightful owner, they can also decide what you can and can't do to that portion, including material restrictions. So, before you even plan to measure and buy materials, check with them and your HOA about rules and regulations.

There's also the importance of proper structural design to ensure your apron can handle vehicle traffic. The grading and drainage need to be precise since that section of the drive needs to properly direct water away from your home and to the storm drains. Having a proper bed for the pavers is also essential to keep them from shifting or cracking.

The average cost of a paver apron ranges from $10 to $50 per square foot. Concrete can be significantly cheaper at $8 to $18 per square foot. However, the look is also more unique and elegant than concrete. Plus, it's just a small area, so the total project could be affordable, depending on your budget. Go with small, rustic pieces reminiscent of a cobblestone road or rich red brick for old-world charm. Or, choose more uniform, sleek stones for a modern welcome. You can also combine different pavers to create borders or patterns within the apron. Or pair this idea with other upgrades, like boulders for a durable driveway edging that upgrades curb appeal.