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You have a few options if you’re looking for the best material for a steep driveway. Gravel and crushed stone are affordable and provide good traction, while resin helps prevent puddles from forming and can be coated with an anti-slip finish.

Gravel driveways last the longest. With proper installation and routine maintenance, they can last upwards of 100 years. To make sure they last as long as possible, gravel driveways should be properly graded and leveled during installation and repair. The natural material is extremely durable, but the grooves make it challenging to remove snow and easy for weeds to grow through the cracks. Still, this is nothing an afternoon DIY project can’t fix and lends to the fact that their easy maintenance helps gravel driveways last even longer.

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 best tool to cut pavers is a hammer and chisel. These tools are best for inexperienced DIYers, as they're affordable and don't require special skills. If you're comfortable using power tools, an angle grinder or a circular saw with a masonry cutting wheel will make quick work of your paver cutting project.