Cobblestone Driveway - Ideas and Types

Granite Cobblestone Driveway

Real cobblestones are made of granite, although some pavers are referred to as cobblestone.

Granite is one of the hardest rocks available. It is very different from bluestone, which is a much softer stone. Some granite is estimated to be almost 4 billion years old. You can also find reclaimed granite cobblestone pavers.

Granite is a very dense material. It's stain resistance is about 95 per cent. If it happens to get a stain, it can be removed.

Using granite cobblestone pavers (Belgian block pavers) on a driveway can be expensive. It is a costly material. However, a cobblestone driveway will last longer than almost any other paving choice.

As mentioned, it is very hard. It is also resistant to freeze-thaw conditions and therefore resists cracking or splitting. It does not scratch easily. It is low maintenance and blends well with many types of landscapes. Many driveways from years ago were constructed of granite. You can still see this in various cities, such as New York. They definitely give that special, old world look.

They can be used either dry laid, or set in mortar. By the way, granite cobblestone can be used for other hardscape areas also, such as walkways and patios.

Visit Stone Farm to see some very special reclaimed granite for driveways.

"We reclaim these cobbles from old New England mills, and the streets of cities (Boston, Hartford, NY). They have distinct colors (usually darker) which you cannot get with new cobbles."

Picture courtesy of Stone Farm.


A Granite Cobblestone Driveway Apron

With all of its attributes, let's face it. To create a driveway out of granite pavers is for those with extremely high budgets.

There is an alternative, however.

That is to use the granite just for the driveway apron. This way, you can still achieve the beautiful look.

Whether using them for the entire cobblestone driveway or just the driveway apron, there are various patterns to choose from. In addition, you can add a circle design in the center, which also looks nice. The cobblestones radiate out and the circle can be almost any size you choose. These stones also look nice with a flat border as part of the design.

Belgian block can also be used as driveway edgings if you are doing the entire driveway. They are laid on end and set in concrete.


Concrete Pavers For A Cobblestone Look

True cobblestones are made of granite. Don't get confused by concrete pavers which might be called cobblestones. They mimic the look, but are made from concrete.

That being said, concrete pavers are an option as they are much less expensive. They will dress up a driveway look, particularly at the entry. There are many nice colors, patterns and textures available. Just be aware of the difference. Concrete pavers can crack and fade. But, again, they can still provide an attractive appearance.

Please visit my page on different kinds of driveway paving choices.

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