Perth Renovation Experts Discuss Some Of The Gravel Driveway Issues And Solution

When it comes to a gravel driveway, gravel layers must be at least 3-8 inches thick. Moreover, the gravel driveway surface must be sloped or crowned to a bank. Grading your driveway is a very important part of proper gravel driveway maintenance. The process is actually started by loosening the hard packed gravel with a scraper blade, a box scraper with ripper shanks or any other method in order to scarify the gravel.

Different Gravel Driveway Issues And Solutions

Clay – Driveways that are placed on clay will usually have soft spots. During wet seasons, the driveway might feel spongy or perhaps will act like a trampoline. And if you drive over the gravel, you can see the ground move which is termed as rebound. Driveways which are constructed on clay must have 12-16 inches of clay removed and 8 inches of fill sand placed with at least 6 inches of gravel. Apart from that, another solution is to place 4-6 inch layer of 2 inch rock between the clay and your driveway gravel – this will actually help lock up to prevent rebound.

Mud – There are a lot of water issues when it comes to muddy driveways. Oftentimes, improper drainage and grading is the cause. It might also be caused by improper installation of the driveway wherein the topsoil may not have been removed before the gravel was placed. The best solution for this is to remove topsoil if present and then, add more gravel.

Birm – This is the buildup of soil of soil, gravel or sod along the edges of the gravel driveway. This buildup will make a mini dam that will hold water on the gravel surface and not allow the water to shed off. This is actually considered the most common problem for gravel driveways; however it is the easiest and most affordable to fix. To solve this issue, just remove this buildup and you will see a huge difference in the quality of your driveway.

Standing water – Driveway is the lowest point of the landscape. And in order to shed off water, add gravel or perhaps remove birm. Sometimes, installing a small scale on the driveway on one side or both will actually remedy the water issue.

Incorrect gravel – Round stones must not be used as packing gravel. Moreover, stone that has uniform particles is not also advisable. Correct gravels have packing dust with irregular edges that will bind together in order to make a solid driving surface. 

Indeed, there are plenty of things to consider to achieve an excellent gravel driveway. Perth experts like Martelletti Contracting can actually help you achieve a great and long-lasting gravel driveway.

Source:  Visit martelletticontracting.com.au to learn more are about creating a good gravel driveway along with other ways on how to boost your property’s appeal and value.