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Concrete is often the default material for a driveway apron, and many local building codes may require this. If you’re not restricted to concrete, however, you can consider alternative driveway apron ideas, such as asphalt, pavers, or gravel. You can also stamp the concrete for an interesting texture, add color to the concrete for a little extra character, or add a swirled trowel finish to your concrete driveway apron.

Pea gravel can be used as a base for a paver patio, but it’s not the preferred choice. Because it is small and round, pea gravel moves much more easily than other base options, like crushed stone, so it won’t keep your pavers in place properly. 

If you do opt for pea gravel, compact it well and use an additional binding agent (like stone dust) to keep everything from shifting.

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.

Depending on material and design complexity, costs range from $10 to $30 per square foot. Installation labor increases the total.