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There’s no single best asphalt grade—it all comes down to where and how it’s used. Highways and heavy-traffic roads need something tough, like polymer-modified asphalt (PMA) or Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA). Local roads and parking lots rely on the Performance Graded (PG) system, chosen based on climate. A PG 64-28 mix, for example, handles a broad temperature range while simpler, more cost-effective mixes are typically enough for residential driveways. The best grade of asphalt depends on traffic, weather, and your budget, which is why a professional’s input is always a smart move before making a decision.

The answer to whether or not you need to get a permit before you start your driveway can vary widely based on local ordinances and the scope of your driveway ideas. In most urban and suburban areas, a permit is needed before building a new driveway to ensure that a homeowner is using safe materials and proper drainage practices while designing and constructing a new driveway. In some rural areas, a homeowner may not be required to apply for a permit. When building a new driveway on your own, always check with your local building department to see if you need to request a permit. When hiring a driveway contractor, verify that the right permits are being used before driveway construction begins.

The stones do not work well on uneven ground. If the stones are not buried into the ground and made level upon installation, they almost certainly will shift or crack on uneven ground. Additionally, rainwater or water from sprinklers can run under the edge of an uneven paver, causing erosion. In a freeze and thaw cycle, trapped water under the paver can cause the problem to worsen by shifting the stepping stones around. Use a bubble level to make sure the ground under each paver is as even as possible, even if the nearby ground is uneven.

Yes, permeable paving is expensive. For driveways, expect to pay up to $70 per square foot; for patios, permeable paving can cost up to $30 per square foot. Costs will depend on the type of material you choose, plus the standard labor rate in your area.