Gravel Driveways - All About Driveways (2024)

FAQs

Are gravel driveways a good idea? ›

Gravel tends to be more cost-effective than other materials, such as concrete or asphalt, so it's an excellent option if you're on a budget. Regarding installation and maintenance, gravel driveways typically cost less than other types, making them a financially friendly choice for many homeowners.

Of all the reasons why people like gravel driveways, though, low-maintenance requirements aren't one of them. Almost all gravel driveways except for one type require regular and extensive maintenance. Though generally affordable, most types of gravel driveway maintenance need to be done on a regular basis.

The beauty of gravel is that it can be repaired and replenished continuously. By contrast, wear and damage to asphalt and concrete driveways are difficult to remedy, and replacement is often more cost-effective than extensive repairs.

With proper care and maintenance, a gravel driveway can last up to 100 years. That's because there's just so little that can go wrong with gravel. Unlike a solid asphalt or concrete driveway, it's not going to crack or sink.

Pea Gravel and Marble Chips: Both offer aesthetic appeal but may require higher maintenance and cost. Decomposed Granite and River Rock: Unique in appearance, these materials have specific challenges, such as potential drainage issues or shifting under weight.

Add Landscaping Fabric

Before you add stone, you'll need to first lay down a layer of landscaping fabric. This will help prevent the growth of plants and weeds from beneath the driveways surface, and will also help control erosion and shifting.

The total depth of a gravel driveway should be 12 to 18 inches thick. Each layer should be four to six inches thick—three layers are best for durability and longevity.

Outdoor Portable Tile is a great solution for flooring over gravel, as it is designed specifically to easily install over dirt, grass, gravel, stone, sand, concrete, or pavement. It is constructed using durable and rigid plastic, and it features a clip together design that makes a great DIY project.

Paved driveway value

A paved driveway is an excellent choice for adding value to your home, as well as providing you with a great looking, highly functional driveway. Paved driveways create a smart first impression for any home.

Is it cheaper to gravel or pave? ›

One of gravel's most significant advantages over paving stones is its dramatically lower cost. Not only is gravel's material cost substantially more affordable than paving stones, but the installation costs and labor fees associated with gravel surfaces are a fraction of what it costs to install paving stones.

Gravel driveways cost significantly less than asphalt or concrete, making them ideal for low-budget and large-scale projects. Gravel driveways typically go for $1.25 to $1.80 per square foot, while concrete driveways cost an average of $4 to $15 per square foot.

Gravel should be a minimum of 4-inches deep. The smaller the gravel, the more even the coverage will be. If rocks are on the larger side, allow for an additional 1/2 inch.

Gravel roads are attractive, easy to maintain, and accumulate less pollutants over time. It's important to edge and shape the roads regularly, so they drain properly and look tidy.

Because gravel driveways consist of many small pieces of gravel, it is quite porous. This means that water can naturally drain away into the soil and fewer puddles and potential flooding will occur during times of heavy rainfall.

We strongly recommend applying a layer of MOT Type 1 to your gravel driveway base. MOT Type 1 aggregate is a bulk fill and levelling material that will ensure your driveway remains stable and doesn't sink under the weight of vehicles. The size of the aggregate ranges from 40mm to dust.