Building Your Own Best Gravel Driveway

The type of gravel you choose for your driveway depends on your specific needs. Driveways can be constructed using dirt, asphalt, or gravel. In this article, we will be discussing gravel driveways.

Gravel driveways have pros and cons, but they are inviting, versatile, and attractive.

What Can You Use For Gravel For Driveway?

There are different types of rocks for driveway rock. You can use pavers, pebbles, or gravel. Gravel is the most popular choice aside from asphalt.

Though there are favored gravels, any type of gravel will do. Each has pros and cons, allowing families to personalize their own gravel driveway.

Gravel Vs. Paving

This may be your first thought when imagining a gravel driveway. Why not just pave with asphalt? Well, asphalt isn’t ideal for private use.

It’s difficult to use and not as attractive.

Gravel Pros And Cons

Here are the pros and cons of a gravel driveway.

Pros:

– Affordable – gravel is very affordable, especially certain types. Much more so than asphalt, which is always the same price. With gravel, you don’t pay just for quality.

– Easy Maintenance – this type of driveway is easy to maintain. If there’s a problem, you just need more gravel to fix it. So no matter how old it is, repairs are super easy and usually only require one person.

Gravel driveways are easy to install. All you need to do is dig a hole and fill it with gravel. The depth is up to you, but we will cover the details later on in this article.

Building a gravel driveway is highly customizable because there are many different types of gravel available. This allows you to mix and match to create a unique driveway that is unlike any other.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Gravel driveways are not weatherproof and can be troublesome during the winter months. Snow and water can get underneath the gravel, making it difficult to manage, especially when snow packs tightly around the rocks.

“Gets Muddy” – Good drainage is necessary for a gravel driveway’s life, so remember this when building it.

“Not Modern” – If you’re looking for a modern look, gravel driveways may not be suitable. They typically have a rustic appearance and rarely look urban, so consider this carefully.

Pros and Cons of Asphalt:

Pros:

– Durable: Asphalt driveways are more durable than gravel driveways. They are a solid material that rarely breaks, with a lifespan of about 50 years for private driveways.

Pros of Asphalt Driveways:

– Crisp, clean, and modern appearance.

– Durable and long-lasting.

Cons of Asphalt Driveways:

– Limited customization options.

– Difficult to maintain.

– Can get very hot in the summer, posing a danger to kids and pets.

If you’re looking for a DIY guide to building a gravel driveway, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a quick and comprehensive guide on how to build a gravel driveway easily and safely.

Pea gravel is an excellent choice for driveways due to its compact nature and ability to withstand pressure. It’s one of the most commonly used rock types for driveways.

Step 1: Mark the area

Start by marking the driveway area. Place markers along the edge leading to the parking area. You can also dig a shallow line on each side to clearly define the area.

Step 2: Excavate the area.

Now it’s time to start digging. Dig out the marked area to a depth of about one foot. This task can be challenging with a shovel, so it’s ideal to hire a team or rent machinery for driveways.

Step 3: Lay Base Layer

Add a layer of landscaping fabric or two at the bottom, followed by approximately 8 inches of landscaping rock. You can use any of the mentioned rocks or a combination of them, as long as they provide good drainage.

Optional: Add The Frame

Consider adding a frame or border around the driveway’s edge using large rocks. This not only enhances the aesthetics but also deters people from driving over the curb. However, keep in mind that it will also prevent you from driving over it.

Step 4: Add Top Gravel

Finally, add the top layer. This gravel may be more expensive but is more attractive. It should be about four inches thick and flush with the top of the ground, but underneath the border.

Determining the size of gravel can be challenging, but it can be done by checking the number on the bag. This number indicates the size of the gravel. An ideal combination is to have varying sizes, such as 3, 4, 57, and 411.

However, there are other factors to consider aside from gravel sizes, like the type of gravel used.

One type of gravel to consider is decomposed granite. It is a crushed derivative of granite countertops and works well for walkways and driveways. While it may be slightly more expensive, it can be used as a top layer. This type of driveway rock is small and flaky, resembling sand.

It is suitable for packing, although it requires larger gravel rocks to ensure proper drainage.

Another type of gravel is pea gravel.

Because it is a versatile and attractive rock, it is often the only one needed for driveways or yards. River rocks are smooth, symmetrical, and even more versatile than pea gravel because they are larger and safer. However, they can be expensive.

Therefore, most people use them for the top layer and cheaper alternatives for the bottom layers of their driveway. Brick chips, on the other hand, are not ideal for the entire driveway but can work well for the bottom layer. They act as a natural weed barrier, helping to deter weed growth.

Adding them first can be beneficial. Lava rocks are another option to consider.

Lava rocks, unique landscaping rocks from volcanic areas, regulate temperatures and deter weed growth. They are great for bottom layers and can also maintain a good driveway temperature.

Finding the Best Gravel for Driveways Nearby

Finding a driveway gravel store nearby is not as overwhelming as it may seem. There are places to look for gravel and tips to guide you along the way.

If your project is small, hardware stores are your best bet. However, for driveways, you will likely need more than a few bags of gravel. So, make sure they can supply you with enough.

Another place to look is the lawn and garden section or store. They can provide you with truckloads of gravel, but be aware of possible price hikes due to them being a third party.

You can also check out gravel suppliers.

Gravel suppliers are ideal for large projects like driveways because they can provide gravel without charging additional fees. If you have a supplier nearby, that would be perfect.

Before making a purchase, it’s important to compare prices. Sometimes, there can be a significant price difference between hardware store gravel and supplier gravel. Make sure you find the best option for what you need.

Check if the supplier has a minimum order requirement for individual purchases. You don’t want to end up buying more gravel than necessary and wasting money.

Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the best gravel for driveways.

The best gravel for driveways is typically 3/8 inch to 3/4 inch in size. It shouldn’t be less than 1/4 inch or more than one inch. For the driveway base, various types of gravel can be used. Crushed stone is the most popular choice, but any similar gravel will work well. When dealing with steep driveways, pea gravel is a good option.

Layering different types of gravel and using drainage systems and gravel grids can help keep everything in place.

Choosing the best gravel for driveways is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Hiring a professional to assist with this task can have numerous benefits. A professional understands the importance of finding the right gravel for the specific needs of a driveway.

They know which factors to consider and can help you make an informed decision. With their expertise, you can avoid potential problems and ensure that your project is successful.

One of the key benefits of hiring a professional is their in-depth understanding of gravel types and their qualities. They can guide you through the selection process, taking into account factors such as durability, cost, and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, they can assess the condition of your driveway and recommend the most suitable gravel for its specific requirements.

Moreover, a professional can save you time and effort. Instead of spending countless hours researching different gravel options and trying to understand complex technical details, you can rely on their expertise. They have the knowledge and experience to quickly identify the best gravel options that meet your needs.

This can significantly streamline the decision-making process and make it less overwhelming.

Furthermore, a professional can provide valuable insights and advice based on their experience. They are familiar with common issues and challenges that are associated with choosing gravel for driveways. By leveraging their expertise, you can avoid potential pitfalls and make an informed decision.

Lastly, hiring a professional can give you peace of mind. Knowing that you have a qualified expert guiding you through the process can alleviate any anxieties or uncertainties you may have. You can trust that they will help you choose the best gravel for your driveway, ensuring its longevity and functionality.

In conclusion, hiring a professional to choose the best gravel for driveways is a decision that can yield numerous benefits. Their expertise can save you time, effort, and potential headaches. They can help you navigate the selection process, ensuring that you choose gravel that is durable, cost-effective, and visually appealing.

By enlisting their assistance, you can have peace of mind knowing that your driveway project is in capable hands.

Hiring a professional can be ideal if you can afford it. Though you will pay nearly double the price, you can have it done right. They will also be buying all of the gravel for you.

If you have a busy life, hiring a professional can even save you money as you won’t have to take off work. Always consider it!