Gravel driveways are a charming, low-maintenance alternative to asphalt or concrete driveways, but only if installed correctly. Poor gravel spreading can lead to several problems that undermine your driveway’s appearance and functionality.
In this blog, we’ll highlight a few of the issues that you can avoid by ensuring proper spreading.
- Potholes and Ruts. This is one of the most common issues associated with poor gravel spreading. Without adequate compaction, the weight of vehicles can easily displace gravel, leading to unsightly and potentially damaging potholes and ruts. To avoid this, ensure each layer is adequately compacted to remove air pockets and form a durable base.
- Washouts. Washouts typically occur due to poor grading. A well-graded driveway should have a slight crown in the center, allowing water to run off to the sides rather than pooling or creating channels through your gravel. Paying close attention to the grading process is crucial, as this will determine whether your gravel driveway can withstand the rain.
- Poor Drainage. A driveway that doesn’t drain properly can become a soggy mess after a downpour. This issue often arises from a lack of adequate runoff gradient and outlets. When spreading gravel, ensure it achieves a sufficient gradient that won’t promote pooling. Additionally, you should consider cutting ditches along the sides of the driveway or installing French drains to direct water away from the surface.
If you want to install or repair your driveway, we at Rooks Backhoe can help. In addition to gravel delivery, we offer expert gravel spreading and land grading services to ensure your driveway is built to last. From selecting the right gravel to meticulous spreading, we’ll take care of every detail, so you can enjoy a beautiful and functional driveway that stands the test of time and nature. Give us a call today to learn more about our services.