Why Gravel Driveways Rock!
Concrete and paver driveways are very common options, but they have their drawbacks too. They're relatively pricey to install and require frequent maintenance. If you're designing a driveway and prefer a low-cost, no-fuss alternative, consider another option.
Gravel driveways are a classic alternative to paved driveways and are popular all across the United States. They're rustic and rugged for rural settings, but can also be more neatly defined and designed for urban neighborhoods as well. Here are some of the biggest reasons why we think gravel driveways really "rock!"
They're Cheap To Install
Depending on the type, color, and finish of the concrete, a concrete driveway can cost anywhere from $8-18 per square foot. Pavers are even more expensive on average, with estimates putting them anywhere between $10-30 per square foot for materials and labor costs.
Gravel driveways, on the other hand, are cheaper by an order of magnitude. On average, you can expect to pay between $1.25-1.80 per square foot for most gravel driveways, with the higher end being around $3. While costs vary depending on what type of gravel you use and your contractor of choice, you can still expect to pay a fraction of the cost you would for a concrete or paved driveway.
Maintenance Is Easy
Gravel is pretty low-fuss, and doesn't need much in the way of frequent maintenance. As long as you keep on top of the fairly minimal maintenance requirements, you shouldn't encounter too much trouble. Here's what we recommend.
When you're doing your landscaping and raking your yard, rake the gravel too to pick up leaves and twigs. We also recommend treating your gravel with a weed killer to prevent weed growth, just as you would with your lawn. Once a year, check to ensure that the driveway is graded properly and drainage ditches are clear and adjust if needed. Over time, gravel driveways can develop potholes, but these can easily be filled in with extra gravel, and as long as you drive slowly over your gravel, you likely shouldn't need to do that more than once every 2-3 years.
It's Water-Permeable
When gravel is installed and graded properly, it's permeable, and when it rains, the water will drain through the driveway and into the earth, replenishing groundwater and leaving behind few puddles or standing water.
It's Suitable For All Kinds of Properties
As we mentioned before, gravel driveways suit many types of properties. They fit into urban settings in smart, neatly lined driveways, but they're also great for rugged rural properties, especially if you've got a long private drive. Timeless and easily customizable, gravel driveways look great on any home.
Choosing A Gravel Contractor
While gravel driveways can be done as a DIY project, working with a contractor can ensure better results. A contractor certified in gravel and dirt driveway installation can help design the path, discuss what types of material would suit your driveway best, and ensure that the driveway is properly installed, graded, and compacted.
While Carolina Wrenn, LLC is known for our tree removal services, we don't stop at just tree removal. We also provide certain sitework and construction services, including gravel driveway installation. If you need a licensed and certified contractor to help with gravel and dirt driveway installation, call Carolina Wrenn, LLC at (843)-901-5875.