Choosing a driveway material is one of the larger exterior decisions Ontario homeowners face. Here is a side-by-side breakdown of the three main options.
Asphalt
Cost: $3-$7/sq ft installed. Best for budget-conscious homeowners. Requires sealing every 2-3 years. Handles freeze-thaw well on a proper granular base. Lifespan: 20-30 years with maintenance. Repairs are inexpensive.
Concrete
Cost: $8-$15/sq ft installed. Lifespan 30-50 years but expensive to repair when cracked. Needs control joints to manage freeze-thaw cracking. Exposed aggregate adds $2-$4/sq ft. Avoid road salt — use sand or gravel for traction.
Interlock Pavers
Cost: $15-$35/sq ft in GTA. Best curb appeal. Individual pavers replaceable. Requires polymeric sand reseal every 3-5 years. Critical: proper compacted base prevents settling and heaving.
Ontario Permits
Most municipalities require a permit for new driveways or significant expansion. Toronto requires Right-of-Way permits for boulevard work. Stormwater rules may limit impermeable surface coverage.
Share your driveway project, get contractor recommendations, and discuss permit timelines with Ontario homeowners at home.renovation.reviews.