Get matched with top asphalt driveway pros in Fairview, MI

Asphalt and tarmac are not the same thing. Traditional tarmac, short for tarmacadam, uses tar as a binder to hold crushed stone together. Asphalt uses bitumen—a byproduct of crude oil—to bind aggregate. Though tarmac was once a go-to for roads, asphalt has become the modern standard. And these days, most surfaces referred to as “tarmac” are actually asphalt. So, while the names may overlap, the key distinction lies in the binder—tar for tarmac and bitumen for asphalt.

If you’re looking for a similar, eco-friendly driveway material, you might consider one of these options:

• Permeable pavement: This material is sometimes called “pervious” or “porous” pavement; it allows stormwater to drain into the subbase, eliminating storm drain costs. 

• Gravel: Consider paving your driveway with locally sourced gravel. By sourcing from a nearby source, your money won’t fund international shipping and will be invested back into your local community.

• Natural stone pavers: Because natural stone pavers are made from organically-produced stone, there’s no new manufacturing required, limiting the environmental impact. In addition, water easily flows and drains through the gaps in the pavers.

Gravel is the cheapest way to extend a driveway. Gravel is an affordable, practical option that’s easy to install and perfect for DIY projects, helping you save on labor costs. It can be quickly spread and leveled to create extra driveway space without heavy preparation. While gravel doesn’t offer the same durability or finished look as concrete or asphalt, its low cost makes it ideal for budget-conscious homeowners who want a functional solution without overspending.

Gravel is one of the few driveway materials that can handle rain the second it’s installed. Unlike asphalt, which needs days to set, or concrete, which requires weeks to cure, gravel is ready as soon as it’s compacted. It’s naturally permeable, allowing water to drain straight through—with no risk of pooling or surface damage. Gravel driveways are one of the most affordable, at $1 to $3 per square foot, and can also last upward of 100 years.