Expert Issues Warning About Viral Driveway Trends This Summer
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Expert Warns Against Viral Driveway Trends This Summer
Summer is peak season for home improvement projects in the UK, and with the rise of TikTok and Instagram trends fuelling kerb appeal makeovers, thousands of homeowners are eyeing up their driveways for a stylish upgrade.
Google searches for ‘driveway designs’ hit their peak in late June, showing a clear surge in interest as people plan outdoor upgrades. (Click here to see data)
But according to Driveway Sealing experts at Premium Paints, what looks good online isn’t always the best choice for your home, or your budget.
“It’s great to see people finding inspiration online,” says Bill Jarvis from Premium Paints, “but some driveway styles just aren’t practical for the UK climate or typical property types. It might look great to begin with, but one to two years after installation, things tend to go downhill, and that’s when you’ll start seeing cracks, drainage problems, fading or shifting surfaces.”
Bill shares the most common driveway trends he’d recommend avoiding, along with expert advice on what to do instead.
- All black resin with no drainage
Why people like it: A smooth, modern look that stands out and photographs well.
What can go wrong: “Black surfaces can absorb a lot of heat during warmer months, softening or fading over time. And when drainage isn’t properly considered, you can get puddling and water sitting near the house”
What to do instead: Choose resin-bound options that are lighter in colour and designed to be permeable. Adding discreet drainage channels can help prevent future issues.
- Patterned paving that dates quickly
Why people like it: Feels custom and adds visual interest.
What can go wrong: “Bold patterns might look trendy today, but they tend to age quickly, and are expensive to replace if your style changes or they start to look dated.”
What to do instead: Opt for classic designs like herringbone or basketweave. These have stood the test of time and still allow room for subtle touches that make the space feel personal.
- Raised Borders and Overdesigned Layouts
Why people like it: Adds a feeling of luxury and structure.
What can go wrong: “Overly high edges or awkward levels can create trip hazards and water drainage issues, especially for older people or families with young children.”
What to do instead: Keep the layout simple and level where possible, making sure water flows away from the house and into proper drainage points.
What to look out for when planning a driveway:
- Ask about the foundation: A good driveway starts with a proper base. Without it, you might not see problems right away, but they’ll appear in time.
- Check local regulations: Some driveways require planning permission or drainage compliance, especially in urban areas.
- Think long term, not just trends: A driveway is an investment. Classic well well-built options tend to look and perform better over time.
