Cobblestone Driveway: Cost, Installation, Pros and Cons

Cobblestone driveway cost

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Make Sail.

In general, cobblestone driveways are more expensive than brick, cement, and other concrete materials. To give you a general view of what to expect, here is a breakdown of cobblestone driveway costs.

How much does it cost to build a cobblestone driveway?

The average cost of building a cobblestone excluding labor costs for the installation would be $-. This is based on a 640sq.ft driveway. The average cost for cobblestone driveway materials starts at $12 per sq.ft.

How much does it cost to install a cobblestone driveway? 

The above mentioned range only includes materials for a 640sq.ft. driveway. With the addition of labor costs and rental equipment, the average installation cost for a cobblestone driveway is in between $- per 640sq.ft.

How much does it cost to replace a cobblestone driveway?

Like brick pavers and driveways, you can easily replace cobblestone driveways because each stone is changed individually. The average cost of replacement materials for cobblestone driveways is pegged at $20-70 per sq.ft. excluding labor and installation costs.

Cobblestone driveway pros and cons

To get to know cobblestone more as a driveway material and what to expect when you have one, here are some of the pros and cons of having a cobblestone driveway.

Pros

• Aesthetic value: With the natural colors and look of cobblestones, curb appeal is one of its major upsides. As such, it adds more value to a home when sold.
• Easy to install: Cobblestones are installed in the same manner as bricks would. While labor intensive for others because the stones are laid one by one, once you get the hang of it, it would take less time. Also, you can have an option to either lay it with mortar binder or just lay them dry on the driveway.
• Unlimited design: Another pro of cobblestone is that you can go for unlimited design opportunities because you can use different kinds of stones (see types of cobblestone driveway above). You can also have different design patterns, an array of colors, and different textures.
• Cost: They say that cobblestones are so expensive but really, you can have affordable cobblestone options limestone, basalt, and other local natural stones.
• Load bearing capacity: Cobblestones are known to have a very high load bearing capacity at its - psi. Regardless if they are bound with mortar or not, their durability and load bearing capacity does not change.
• Weatherproof: This is a major plus for a dry cobblestone base because you have open joints where excess water could be absorbed and where frost and heat could not permeate. These are all the things you need for a weatherproof driveway. These are also the reasons why cobblestones are fairly low maintenance.
• Stain resistant: The stones used for cobblestone driveways are considered calcareous stones. This means that they are acid proof, hence, stains and other hazardous chemicals from vehicle fluids cannot stain the cobblestone driveway.
• Easy to clean and easy to replace: Power washing and sweeping are all it takes to clean a cobblestone driveway. Just do it regularly, along with some sealing if you may, and you can maintain the cobblestone driveway in its pristine look. As for replacement, you can just dig the ones that need replacement and dig in the new one.

Cons

• Costly: At the outset, you really are investing a lot when you opt for cobblestone driveways because the upfront cost is huge compared to concrete. If you are a little low on budget, it is not the right driveway material for you.
• Laborious: The repair and replacement is easy because we are only talking about individual stones but laying them down could mean two weeks and more especially if you are just doing it on your own.
• Uneven surface: Expect bumps and noise when the car is in friction with the uneven surface of the cobblestone driveway. If you do not want this, it is best to consider another driveway material.
• Weed and snow removal: Because of its uneven surface and sometimes patchy texture, de-weeding and snow removal can be a major problem. You have to do it the manual way or just leave the snow there and melt on its own.

Cobblestone driveway installation

As have been mentioned, cobblestone driveway installation follows the same process as you would install brick and concrete driveways. Just to give you a view of what to expect in a DIY installation, here are the steps to follow.

1. The first and most laborious phase of installing a cobblestone driveway would be preparing the surface. You need to clear the old driveway material down to the ground and this alone already includes sledge and jackhammers. Clear the debris, tree stumps, and plants by the root.
2. Next, prepare the driveway base. Mark the dimensions with stakes or nylon wires and then excavate at least 7-inches of base depth.
3. After this, lay crushed stones around the base and pulverize them using a power tamper. Make sure that there is 4.5-inches of thickness there for the crushed stones.
4. The next thing to do is spread coarse sand on the base and even it well using a rake. Again, compact the surface using your power tamper.
5. In contrast to bricks, you must start laying the cobblestones by the edge. Make sure that you follow the nylon string. Lay all the stones down in a linear pattern. To adjust, align and keep the stones in place, tap each cobblestone with a rubber mallet.
6. As soon as you put everything in place, use a garden hose and wet the stones. Again, run the power tamper to even everything in. After that, use a leaf blower to ensure that no debris is stuck in between the cobblestones.

*If you are thinking of sand or epoxy grouting your cobblestones, you must make sure that they dry all the way through before you use them. After the grout has dried, make a push for another hose washing and then you are all done.

Cobblestone driveway repair and maintenance

When it comes to cobblestone driveways, there are just a few things to really master as they are durable and low maintenance. Here are some pointers that you should remember in cobblestone driveway repair and maintenance.

Maintenance

• Regular sweeping: Using a standard push broom, you should have a thorough sweeping of the driveway every two weeks. Clear off the surface from leaves, stones, and debris. Also pay attention to cracked stones and see if there are ones that need to be replaced. You also would have to broom more during fall.
• Scrubbing: Dirt and mud should be removed immediately, and you need a standard garden hose or power washer for this one. To make the scrubbing more effective, you must use warm water and dish soap along to scrub the surface with. Rinse it thoroughly with the hose and let it dry before using it.
• Sealing: This is not a mandatory process but you would want to avoid more wear and tear in the long run and to maintain its polished look so you can consider this. Sealing the cobblestone driveway also prevents stains from gas, oil, and other fluids.
  

  Repair

  No matter what you are repairing, it is easy peasy when it comes to cobblestone driveways. For cracked and broken cobblestones, just remove the stone and then reinstall a new one. For sunken areas, remove the cobblestones from the sunken area and then just fill the base with more gravel and then reinstall the stones. For stains and discoloration, just wash and rinse using a soap and warm water solution.

  Cobblestone driveway vs asphalt driveway vs concrete

  These three driveway materials here are probably the most popular ones across materials. To compare these three, let us break down some of their key similarities and differences.

  Asphalt Concrete Cobblestone Durability 10-25 years 7-25 years 30-100 years Upfront cost Inexpensive Cheap to mid-tier Expensive Curing time A few days to a week A few days to a week No curing time Maintenance Low Low Low Repair Expensive Expensive Inexpensive Load capacity psi -psi -psi Design Limited Unlimited Unlimited Installation Easy Easy Labor intensive

  There is so much more to cover when it comes to the differences of these three materials but as far as building a driveway is concerned, these should be the main factors to consider so we are only narrowing these down for you.

  Cobblestone driveway ideas

  For you to have a mental image of what to expect out of cobblestone driveways, here are some cobblestone driveway ideas that you can consider for your home.

  Rustic chic

  If you want to add a historic and rustic charm to your driveway, quaint cobblestones are a fine choice for you.

• The rough patches and rugged edges of granite or the more polished limestone or basalt are some of the best choices for you to achieve this look. Add a sand grout in between and you are good to go.

  Here is another rustic chic design reminiscent of English countryside. It made use of irregular shaped basalt cobblestones in a curved base. It is also edged using the same cobblestones to maintain a unified look. To say that it complements the house well given its stone slab design is an understatement.

  Related: 10 Best Driveway Edging Ideas On A Budget

  Vintage appeal

  This small driveway here is made of gneiss and limestone cobblestone pavers. Their lighter colors are in uniform with this classic, vintage look of the home.

  Overall, the exterior of the house as complemented by the cobblestone driveway can transport you into the 30s or 50s anytime.

  Related: 15+ River Rock and Stone Garden Ideas

  Urban electric style

  For a modern flair but with the warm, country tones, this cobblestone driveway is a thing that could sweep you off your feet.

  Made of bluestones and Nile cobblestone, it brings a fancy urban façade to your driveway. Just adorn it in a minimalist manner with some lines of potted plants or just let it be like this one.

  Dynamic shapes

  If you are caught up with just the solid block pattern of cobblestone driveways, you can opt for more dynamic patterns. As have been mentioned, the patterns for cobblestone driveways can be unlimited.

  For instance, you can go for a fan shaped cobblestone driveway with linear cobblestone edging and drainage like this one here.

  For a natural, Middle Eastern or Mediterranean look, you can go for a horizontal, herringbone pattern reminiscent of ancient courtyards and historic streets. This one here made use of sesame cobblestone. The conformity of the style is also due to the use of this sandstone retaining wall on the side.

This one here, on the other hand, follows a circular pattern with each panel bordered by an interlocking, linear style of cobblestone. The subtle tones of the cobblestone used add warmth to the home&#;s façade in general.

This one is going for a more geometric look with its interlocking cobblestones made of basalt and terra cotta and the surface divisions coming from the concrete slabs. It offers a clean and minimalist look for any modern, industrial as well as minimalist style homes like this one.

Sealed and polished

For a seasonal, glowing look for the driveway, you can opt for the polished look of sealed cobblestone driveways. This one is especially stunning for summer homes in colder regions.

The stability of the cobblestone pavers is owed from the epoxy grout. This makes for a low maintenance cobblestone driveway because it does not encourage weed growth and the snow is easily thawed.

If you want a darker contrast for your bright colored home and of course, to guise leaks from oil, gas and other fluids from vehicles, a black, sealed cobblestone driveway like this one is a fine option for you.

Part of the dynamicity of cobblestone is also having the option to go multi-colored. This one here features the warm tones of silex cobblestones and the cooler gray blue tones of buffalo and bluestones.

Its circular pattern and use of live edging in the form of turf grass and well curated shrubs give it a classic European vibe that cannot be easily missed.

FAQs

How many cobblestones do I need to build a driveway?

As per rule of thumb, contractors say that one square foot space would need 4 cobblestones. With this figure, you must compute first for the dimensions of the driveway (the proverbial length multiplied with the width) and then multiply it by 4. That is how you get the number of cobblestones needed in building your driveway.

How long do cobblestone driveways last?

The longevity of cobblestone driveways is beyond superior as they could remain stable for hundreds of years. The fact that contractors still make use of reclaimed cobblestones mainly from old European towns and the Middle East is enough manifestation of the durability and longevity of cobblestones.

Conclusion

To conclude, cobblestones are not just stunning and upscale to look at in driveways but are good investments in the long run. First off, their curb appeal is just so timeless, offering a good selling point for your property through the years. Two, they are durable and have good load bearing capacity. Three, cobblestone driveways are easy to maintain and easy to repair.

These characteristics of cobblestone driveways truly outweigh their upfront costs and the laborious installation process to come up with one. Given all that we have covered here, it should now be easier for you to decide if you should opt for a cobblestone driveway or not.

Written by

Tara Farmer

January 4,

Are you interested in learning more about Calacatta Cobble stone? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Edited by

Jennifer Carlson

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

Pavers vs. concrete cost & comparison

The average cost of pavers is $10 to $30 per square foot for materials and installation, while the average cost to pour concrete ranges from $4 to $15 per square foot, depending on the area size and whether it's basic concrete or includes decorative color or textural elements.

Comparing pavers vs. concrete for patios and driveways Factor Pavers Concrete Average cost
per square foot installed $10 &#; $30 $4 &#; $15 Average 1-car driveway cost $2,900 &#; $8,600 $800 &#; $2,300 Average 2-car driveway cost $5,700 &#; $17,200 $1,600 &#; $4,600 Average patio cost (20'x20') $3,800 &#; $6,800 $2,000 &#; $6,000 Appearance High-end aesthetic with limitless color, shape, & design flexibility Less visually appealing; limited color, shape, & design options Durability Durable & flexible; may loosen over time Durable; may crack from ground shifts Climate concerns Stable in most climates May split in extreme temperatures Safety concerns Not as smooth to walk on May become slippery when wet Installation Labor-intensive installation Easier to install Maintenance Easier to repair but more difficult to clean More challenging to repair but easier to clean Property value Increases home value May increase home value Lifespan 25 &#; 75+ years 30 &#; 50+ years

Pavers vs. concrete patio in a residential backyard

Appearance

Pavers offer much more design flexibility than concrete. The individual pavers come in a wide variety of materials, sizes, and colors, and installers can create virtually any shape or design with them during the installation process.

Poured concrete is more limited in its color and design options. Concrete slab surfaces are typically smooth but may be stamped with decorative patterns for an extra cost. Installers can also mix color into the concrete before pouring. Color added after installation often needs reapplication over time due to fading.

Durability

Pavers are more durable than concrete, with an average strength four times higher than that of a concrete slab. Pavers hold up better in harsh weather and typically don't crack from freeze-thaw cycles. Replacing individual pavers as needed is also cheaper and easier than repairing or replacing a concrete surface.

While not as strong as pavers, concrete is more durable than asphalt and can last just as long as pavers in some applications if installed correctly and well maintained. Still, concrete is more susceptible to cracking over time from extreme temperatures or ground shifting.

Consider installing concrete pavers to get the best of both worlds&#;the cost-effective concrete material pricing with the flexibility and durability of pavers.

Materials

Paver prices range from as little as $0.50 per square foot to as much as $20 per square foot for the pavers alone, depending on the size, type, and quality. Paver installation also requires a base, which adds $1.40 to $2.20 per square foot to the material costs.

On average, the material costs to pour concrete are typically lower than the material costs to install decent quality pavers.

Paver prices vs. concrete material costs Material Average material price per square foot* Concrete slab cost $3.00 &#; $7.00 Bluestone pavers cost $6.00 &#; $14.00 Clay brick pavers $1.40 &#; $15.00 Cobblestone pavers $10.00 &#; $25.00 Concrete pavers $1.25 &#; $18.00 Granite pavers cost $10.00 &#; $15.00 Limestone pavers cost $7.00 &#; $15.00 Permeable pavers $4.00 &#; $12.00 Plastic pavers $1.90 &#; $8.00 Porcelain pavers $1.10 &#; $18.00 Rubber pavers $1.70 &#; $10.00 Slate pavers $3.60 &#; $20.00 Stone pavers $0.50 &#; $14.00 Travertine pavers $0.50 &#; $11.50

*Installation adds $3 to $5 per square foot for concrete and $7 to $13 per square foot for pavers.

Installation

Pavers require more time and labor than poured concrete. The designer must plan out the details thoughtfully, level and prep the site, and then place each paver stone individually. Once the pavers are in place, installers typically fill the gaps and joints with polymeric sand.

Concrete installs quickly and easily in most cases. Installation involves preparing the site&#;often with excavation and grading or leveling&#;before mixing and pouring the concrete. The concrete then takes several days to cure before it's ready for use.

A beautiful natural stone paver patio in a residential backyard.

Maintenance & repairs

Pavers are relatively low maintenance overall. You may need to clear unwanted weeds or moss from the seams and joints periodically and replace individual pavers that crack or break over time. The ability to replace pavers individually makes repairing this surface cheaper and easier than repairing concrete.

Concrete is also low maintenance but needs ongoing maintenance for continued durability. Patch cracks right away to prevent more costly repairs. Resurfacing concrete costs $3 to $7 per square foot and involves replacing only the top layer to refresh its look for less than the cost of complete replacement.

Installing pavers costs more up front, but concrete's higher maintenance and repair costs may make it more expensive over the long term.

Property value

Both pavers and concrete have the potential to increase property value when installed and maintained correctly. A decorative paver installation that complements the home boosts curb appeal and improves resale value. Replacing old, damaged concrete with a newly poured concrete surface can have a similar effect.

Get free estimates from patio contractors near you.

&#;

Search

Concrete patio cost vs. patio pavers

Patio pavers cost more than standard poured concrete, but both options can give your backyard an aesthetic boost. Concrete offers a smoother surface to walk on but may become slippery when wet, while pavers provide better traction but may create a bumpier walking surface, depending on the material.

Paver driveway cost vs. concrete

A basic poured concrete driveway costs less to install than a paver driveway due to concrete's lower material costs and shorter installation time. Staining or decorative stamping brings concrete costs closer to some driveway paver costs. The best choice for you depends on your location, budget, and design preferences.

Concrete driveway vs. driveway pavers cost comparison Driveway material type Average installed cost
(per square foot) Total cost installed* Basic poured concrete driveway cost $4 &#; $8 $1,600 &#; $4,600 Stained concrete $8 &#; $12 $4,600 &#; $6,900 Stamped concrete $12 &#; $18 $6,900 &#; $10,400 Brick pavers $10 &#; $25 $5,500 &#; $14,500 Cobblestone pavers cost $20 &#; $50 $12,000 &#; $30,000 Concrete pavers $10 &#; $20 $5,500 &#; $11,500 Stone pavers $10 &#; $30 $5,500 &#; $18,000 Porcelain pavers $15 &#; $30 $8,500 &#; $18,000 Rubber pavers $8 &#; $15 $4,500 &#; $8,500 Permeable pavers cost $8 &#; $30 $4,000 &#; $17,000

*Total cost for an average 24'x24' (2-car) driveway.

High-end concrete driveway with stained decorative borders

Getting estimates from paver installers and concrete contractors

When researching local paver installers and concrete contractors near you, be sure to:

• Get 3 to 5 detailed estimates with similar details to compare from contractors specializing in the type of project you're planning:

  • Driveway pavers

  • Concrete driveway contractors

  • Patio and landscape pavers

  • Concrete patio contractors

  • Concrete slab contractors

• Read their reviews and check out their previous work on Google and HomeGuide.

• Confirm their licensing credentials and insurance are valid and up to date.

• Ask for local references you can contact for feedback or examples of similar local projects you can see in person.

• Be skeptical of low bids as this may indicate they lack experience, use low quality materials, or both.

• Ask for a contract and warranty in writing before the start of the project.

• Only pay up front for supply costs. Work out a payment plan for the labor as it is completed.

Questions to ask your paver or concrete contractor

Ask the following questions to help you decide who to hire for your concrete or pavers installation:

• Is the company licensed in this state, bonded, and insured?

• What training/certifications and how many years of relevant experience do you have?

• Will you provide references from previous customers?

• Does your bid include all prep work, materials, installation labor, and cleanup?

• Do you offer a warranty, and what does it cover?

• Do you require a deposit, and how much is it?

• Do you do the installation yourself, or will you be using subcontractors?

• When can you start, and how long will it take to finish?

• Who is my main contact during and after the installation?

• What extra costs might come up during a project like this?

• What permits do I need, will you obtain them, and are permit fees already included in your estimate?

How we get this data

Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Calacatta Root Quartz.