{"id":10940,"date":"2024-01-05T08:23:54","date_gmt":"2024-01-05T08:23:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/drivewayplanner.com\/?p=10940"},"modified":"2024-01-05T08:23:55","modified_gmt":"2024-01-05T08:23:55","slug":"gravel-driveway-pros-and-cons","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/drivewayplanner.com\/gravel-driveway-pros-and-cons\/","title":{"rendered":"Gravel Driveway Pros And Cons"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The biggest reason many homeowners choose gravel driveways is that they are the cheapest kind. They are also easy to install and have excellent drainage. On the flip side, they don’t offer the same aesthetics as a concrete or paved driveway and issues with weeds are common. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are thinking about installing a gravel driveway, this post explains all the pros and cons you need to know about. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pros of Gravel Driveways<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Pros<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Affordable <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are on a budget, a gravel driveway is the best option. It costs less to install a gravel driveway compared to concrete, paver or asphalt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A gravel driveway is also cheaper to maintain. While a concrete driveway may require grinding, sealing, resurfacing and other expensive maintenance procedures, gravel requires only levelling and an occasional top up. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

So both the initial costs as well as the long term costs are low.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easy and Quick to Install <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the reasons a gravel driveway is cheaper is that labour costs are low. That\u2019s because the driveway is easy and quick to lay. In most cases, a contractor can complete a gravel driveway in just a day, though longer driveways can take 2-3 days.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

And the best part is that the driveway is ready to use right away. Unlike a concrete or asphalt driveway, you don’t have to wait for the gravel to set or cure. This minimises any inconveniences. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Long Lasting <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A gravel driveway can last just as long as other types of driveways. So you are not compromising on longevity when you choose to go with gravel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like any other kind of driveway, the lifespan of a gravel driveway depends on how well it is installed and maintained. When laid properly and maintained well, a gravel driveway can easily last 30 years and even longer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Low Maintenance and Easy to Repair <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Gravel driveways have their issues, and we\u2019ll talk about them shortly. You\u2019ll have to deal with weeds, gravel washing off and occasional ruts and potholes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But overall, a gravel driveway is easy to maintain. Even when issues pop up, they are easy and cheap to fix. Usually, you can even fix these problems yourself, so you don’t have to spend money on professionals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a low-effort driveway, gravel is a great pick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Good Drainage <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

These days, there\u2019s lots of talk about permeable or porous driveways that reduce water runoff and flooding. Companies have come up with special pavers and concrete that can absorb more water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But none of them can match the drainage capability of a gravel driveway. The loose gravel easily allows water through to the ground, which minimises runoff. Consequently, this reduces flooding and erosion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for an eco-friendly driveway, gravel is a good option. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cons of Gravel Driveways<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As with any other type of driveway, a gravel driveway has its drawbacks. But most of the cons of a gravel driveway are not complete deal breakers. There are some workarounds to minimise the downsides.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not Everyone Likes How They Look <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Gravel is generally not considered a premium driveway material. A gravel driveway doesn’t have the same high-end look as a paver, asphalt or concrete driveway. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are concerned about curb appeal or improving your home value, you may want to consider other options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another issue is that it\u2019s hard to make your gravel driveway unique. You can apply a wide range of stains and finishes on a concrete driveway, and pavers come in all sorts of styles. But gravel is just gravel. You can get gravel in a variety<\/a> of colours, but you don’t have the same versatility as concrete and paver driveways. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Solution: <\/strong>You can make your gravel driveway look more premium by using a gravel binder. This is a resin that binds the gravel into a smooth solid surface. Alternatively, install gravel pavers. They do the same thing \u2014 transform a loose gravel driveway into a nice looking solid driveway.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

Other tips to make a gravel driveway look nice include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  • Edge the driveway with brick, stone, concrete or pavers on both sides. This will help hold the gravel in place and improve how it looks. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Adding plants like flowers and shrubs on the sides of the driveway can help classy it up. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Choose a beautiful gravel colour that goes well with the exterior colour of your home. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    Cleaning Can be a Bit of a Hassle <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    The main issue when it comes to maintaining a gravel driveway is cleaning. It\u2019s easy to sweep, scrub or pressure wash dirt off a solid and smooth driveway like concrete. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    With gravel, dirt and debris hides between the pieces of gravel and you can\u2019t easily sweep it away. A pressure washer, which is so handy for cleaning other types of driveways, is not suitable for gravel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Things are worse if you live in a dusty place. It can get so bad that the gravel turns colour from the buildup of dust. And when it rains, dirt and soil trapped by the gravel can leave it looking dirty. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    Solution: <\/strong>Cleaning a gravel driveway is tricky but not impossible. The secret is staying on top of things. Don’t let the dirt and debris build up. Use a brush or broom to gently sweep away debris on the surface. A rake is also great for clearing leaves off the gravel.\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

    For dirt and dust, a garden hose is the best way to keep the gravel clean. Spray the driveway to wash away the dust, being careful not to wash away the gravel. Don\u2019t be tempted to use a pressure washer; it\u2019s too powerful for the gravel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If the gravel is really dirty, the best option is cleaning it a small section at a time. Scoop the gravel into a bucket and sieve it using a wire mesh. You can then rinse it with a hose before putting it back on the driveway. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The best solution is to use a gravel binder. This creates a firm and smooth surface that is super easy to clean.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Here\u2019s a video of a contractor installing a resin-bound gravel paving. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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