Which Driveway is Best for Your Dallas Home? Concrete vs Pavers vs Gravel and More (2025)

Introduction: Choosing the Right Driveway for Your Dallas Home

If you’re here, there’s a good chance your driveway is starting to show its age—or maybe you’re planning a new one and want to get it right the first time. Either way, choosing the right material can feel like more of a project than expected. Concrete, pavers, gravel, brick... each one looks different, costs different, and holds up differently in Dallas weather. It’s a lot to sort through.

At Startex Landscaping, we’ve helped Dallas homeowners build and replace driveways for over a decade. We know how quickly a simple project can turn into a string of questions—What’s going to last? What works with my home? What’s it going to cost? That’s exactly why we put this guide together.

We’ll walk you through the most popular driveway types, highlight the pros and cons of each, and share a few design tips along the way. And if you’re wondering what this might cost you? Stick around to the end—we’ll break that down too.

Take your time with it. The right driveway isn’t just about looks—it’s about finding the best fit for your home and how you live.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Choosing the Right Driveway for Your Dallas Home
2. How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Driveway?
3. Concrete Driveways
4. Paver Driveways
5. Gravel Driveways
6. Asphalt Driveways
7. Brick and Cobblestone Driveways
8. Stamped Concrete Driveways
9. Driveway Installation Costs in Dallas
10. Driveway Design Ideas for Dallas Homes
11. Why Dallas Homeowners Choose Startex Landscaping for Driveways

How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Driveway?

If you’re seeing deep cracks, large uneven sections, pooling water, or crumbling edges, it might be time to consider a full driveway replacement instead of repairs. In Dallas, the combination of heat, rain, and soil movement can speed up wear and tear faster than homeowners expect. Minor surface cracks can sometimes be patched, but widespread damage, sinking spots, or repeated drainage issues usually mean it’s smarter—and more cost-effective in the long run—to start fresh with new materials and a better foundation. If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to get a professional inspection before small problems turn into bigger ones.

#1 Concrete Driveways

Concrete is one of the most popular driveway materials across Dallas, and for good reason. It offers a clean, classic look that fits a wide range of home styles—from modern to traditional. Concrete is durable under heavy use, resists UV damage, and can be poured in a variety of finishes, including broomed, smooth, stained, or even stamped patterns.

However, Dallas’s clay-heavy soil and occasional extreme temperatures can cause concrete to crack over time. Proper installation, including a solid gravel base and expansion joints, helps minimize these risks. Concrete also tends to be more affordable than pavers upfront, though it doesn’t offer the same level of customization. For homeowners looking for a low-maintenance, timeless solution, concrete is often a strong choice.

#2 Paver Driveways

Paver driveways offer a high-end look with unbeatable versatility. Made from individual units of concrete, natural stone, or brick, pavers can be arranged in endless patterns, colors, and textures to create a truly custom design.

In addition to their aesthetic flexibility, pavers are also incredibly practical. They flex slightly with ground movement, making them more resistant to cracking than poured concrete. If a section becomes stained or damaged, individual pavers can be replaced without disturbing the entire driveway. Paver driveways generally cost more upfront due to the detailed installation, but they add significant curb appeal and long-term value to a property—something many Dallas homeowners are looking for when investing in outdoor upgrades.

#3 Gravel Driveways

Gravel driveways are an excellent option for homeowners looking for an affordable, fast-to-install solution. They offer excellent drainage, reducing puddling and runoff issues common in Dallas during heavy rain. Gravel also provides a rustic, informal look that pairs well with farmhouse, ranch, and country-style properties.

On the flip side, gravel requires more maintenance than solid surfaces. You'll need to occasionally replenish and re-level the surface, especially after heavy storms or periods of high traffic. Gravel is best suited for longer driveways, rural properties, or as a temporary solution while planning a more permanent installation.

#4 Asphalt Driveways

Asphalt is another popular driveway material, though it’s typically more common in colder climates than in Dallas. That said, it can still be a good fit for certain projects where budget and quick installation are priorities. Asphalt offers a smooth, dark surface that hides stains well and handles vehicle traffic with ease.

The main drawbacks in Dallas are the intense heat and sun exposure, which can cause asphalt to soften, fade, or crack more quickly than it would elsewhere. Regular sealing (every few years) can help prolong its lifespan. For homeowners looking for a relatively budget-friendly alternative to concrete, asphalt remains worth considering, especially for larger driveways.

#5 Brick and Cobblestone Driveways

Brick and cobblestone driveways offer timeless charm and a sense of history that few other materials can match. Each surface is laid by hand, creating intricate patterns that elevate a home’s curb appeal instantly. These driveways are ideal for historic properties, luxury homes, or anyone wanting a driveway that feels truly special.

Durability is excellent—brick and cobblestone can easily last decades with proper installation and care. However, they come at a higher cost both in materials and labor. They're also best suited for driveways with moderate slopes, as steep gradients can sometimes cause settling over time. For homeowners wanting a standout driveway with undeniable character, brick or cobblestone is hard to beat.

#6 Stamped Concrete Driveways

Stamped concrete bridges the gap between basic concrete and custom paver designs. During installation, special stamps are pressed into the concrete surface to create patterns that mimic stone, brick, slate, or other textures. The finished product offers the durability of standard concrete with a much more decorative appearance.

Stamped concrete is generally less expensive than full paver installations but more customizable than plain poured concrete. However, like all concrete, it’s susceptible to cracking if not installed properly. Sealing the surface helps protect the color and pattern, keeping it looking fresh even under Dallas’s tough summer sun.

Driveway Installation Costs in Dallas

Let’s talk numbers—because for most homeowners, cost is what really helps things click into place.

The price of a driveway install depends on a few things: the material you choose, the size of your space, how much prep work is needed (like grading or drainage), and any extras you want to include. Here’s a ballpark range based on what we typically see in Dallas:

• Concrete Driveways: Around $8–$12 per square foot
• Paver Driveways: $15–$25 per square foot
• Gravel Driveways: $3–$6 per square foot
• Asphalt Driveways: $7–$10 per square foot
• Brick or Cobblestone: $20–$40+ per square foot
• Stamped Concrete: $12–$18 per square foot

Keep in mind—these are just averages. Two driveways made of the same material can still land at different price points based on layout, slope, or how much demo work is needed. If you're trying to nail down your budget, the best next step is to have us come out and take a look. We’ll walk the property, talk through ideas, and give you an honest, detailed estimate.

Driveway Design Ideas for Dallas Homes

A driveway doesn’t have to be just plain concrete stretched from the curb to your garage. There are so many simple ways to make it stand out—and make it feel like a real part of your home’s landscape.

Some homeowners go with a border of brick or pavers around a concrete drive for contrast. Others use stamped or stained finishes to add texture and color without going full custom. If your front yard has a slope or a wide footprint, a curved driveway can soften the look and create a more welcoming approach. And don’t forget about lighting, small planting beds along the sides, or even a modern-style gate—those finishing touches go a long way.

Design doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A few smart choices up front can turn a basic driveway into a detail that actually adds value and style to your home.

Why Dallas Homeowners Choose Startex Landscaping for Driveways

At the end of the day, a driveway is a big investment—and you want it done right the first time. That’s where we come in.

Startex Landscaping has been building driveways in Dallas for over 10 years. We know the soil, the weather, the way materials respond over time, and how to plan a project that holds up—not just looks good on day one. Whether you already know what you want or you’re still figuring it out, we’ll walk you through your options and give you straight answers along the way.

We don’t push a one-size-fits-all solution. We listen, we plan carefully, and we build things we’re proud to stand on. Your driveway should be one of them.

If you’re ready to start the conversation, we’d be happy to take a look at your space and talk through what makes sense. No pressure, no cookie-cutter quotes—just honest guidance from a team that builds driveways like they’re part of the home. Let’s make it happen.