If you are considering installing a new driveway to your home, there are many benefits to installing a stone driveway. You will have a more personalized driveway with a more durable finish, which can be a real money saver for your home. Gravel driveways are also easy to install and are more eco-friendly.
Gravel Driveways are Easier to Install Than Concrete.
If you want a driveway that’s easy to install and maintain, you’re looking at concrete or Gravel. Both have their benefits and drawbacks. But there are ways to ensure that the material you choose is best for your family.
When choosing a material, consider its cost. Concrete costs more than Gravel but has a higher lifespan. You’ll also need to budget for maintenance and repairs. While asphalt and brick are inexpensive, they require regular care. Besides, they can flake or peel if you install them improperly.
On the other hand, Gravel is a natural material that comes in many different colors and sizes. Several types of Gravel are used in driveways, including pea gravel, crushed bluestone, marble chips and more.
Most gravel or stone driveways Charlotte NC can be installed using a grid system that holds the Gravel. This makes the process much easier. The grid drains rainwater and has the stone in place. Hiring a contractor to do the work is optional, but you may need one for more complex areas.
Gravel Driveways are More Robust than Asphalt.
Gravel driveways are a popular alternative to asphalt driveways. They are a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution. However, they do have their drawbacks. The best material for your home is based on your needs and preferences.
When choosing between asphalt and Gravel, you should first weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each material. Regardless of your type of material, your driveway should be regularly maintained. A professional will be able to guide you through this process.
Asphalt is a durable material that offers a smooth, firm surface. It is also more aesthetically pleasing than Gravel. You can also find it in a wide variety of colors and sizes.
The downside to an asphalt driveway is that it can crack and warp under the sun’s intense heat. It can also be damaged by heavy vehicles and equipment.
Another disadvantage is that it can be challenging to clean. This may be especially true in areas with high rainfall.
Gravel Driveways are Eco-friendly.
A gravel driveway is a cost-effective and eco-friendly driveway option. It offers many advantages, including adding curb appeal to your home. However, you will need to maintain your driveway regularly and fill it in when it gets uneven. Fortunately, the maintenance and repairs are minimal compared to a solid surface.
Gravel is a natural material that provides adequate drainage for your drive. Because of its porous nature, rainwater can permeate through the material. This is a benefit when compared to paving, as it reduces the amount of stormwater runoff.
The price of construction-grade sand and Gravel varies depending on the size of the project. Last year, the average cost of sand and Gravel in the United States was $9.90 a metric ton. While this is a small amount, it can add up quickly.
Gravel is relatively inexpensive and can be sourced locally. For this reason, it is often the first choice for driveways. Gravel is a low-maintenance, low-cost, and eco-friendly alternative compared to asphalt.
Gravel Driveways are More Personalized.
A gravel driveway is an excellent option for long, rural driveways. It is durable and can last for years.
Gravel comes in different sizes and colors. There are several advantages to Gravel, including its low maintenance. However, it can be a challenging material to work with in winter. Depending on the weather, it can be tough to plow, scrape, or repair.
If you choose to add Gravel to your driveway, grade it correctly. Raising the Gravel above any low areas will keep it in place—compact the ground below the topsoil to prevent a pooling effect.
You may need to have your gravel driveway regraded yearly. Regarding can cost around $10 per day for a manual tamper or $30 to $50 per day for a gas-powered tamper. Tampers for steep slopes can cost hundreds of dollars new.
Gravel can be placed in different layers, depending on the aesthetic you’re going for. The first layer of Gravel is about the size of golf balls, while the last layer is marble-sized. In between, you can put down a base rock or filter fabric.
