What is the Best Size of Gravel for Driveways?

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Gravel driveways are one of the most budget-friendly aesthetic upgrades you can make to your house. They offer a low-cost, homey touch to your property that has a lot of appeal. However, gravel can come in numerous different sizes. Did you know that different sizes can impact the stability of your driveway? It can affect the drainage as well. Moreover, depending on the size, some look better than others. In this blog post, we are going to go over the best sizes of gravel for driveways, discussing each factor individually so that your driveway not only looks good but lasts a long time.

Factors to Consider

Before we delve into the specifics of gravel sizes, it's crucial to understand the factors that should influence your decision. These include stability, drainage, aesthetics, and functionality. By taking these factors into account, you can determine what best suits your needs.

• Stability: You'd like your driveway to resist sinking as vehicles and feet pound it.
• Drainage: Ensure good drainage to prevent water from pooling on your driveway and creating long-term damage.
• Aesthetics: The size of your gravel should relate to your home's style and design and enhance its curb appeal. Choose something that works.
• Functionality: This involves determining how you're actually going to use your driveway. 

Now, let's take a closer look at the different gravel sizes available and their pros and cons.

Pea Gravel

The best option would be pea gravel. Pea gravel's small size (between 1/8 inch and 3/8 inch in diameter) and its perfectly rounded shape make it a favorite choice for driveways. You can comfortably walk over pea gravel and use your car without having to worry about falling. Its small size also allows it to compact quite well. With enough pressure, the gravel shrinks together so that it sits tightly in one place and provides a sturdy surface. However, if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain or snow, pea gravel might not be the best choice as it will wash away.

Crushed Stone

Crushed stone is the bigger option, usually ranging from about 3/8 inch to 1 inch in size. This permeable option comes in various colors and textures, making it a popular choice for driveways that you want to spruce up aesthetically. Not only that, but it is also great for both stability and drainage, especially if you drive heavy vehicles or reside in a rainy area. Its larger size can also leave you a little unsettled if you are a barefoot walker.

Quarry Process

The quarry process, sometimes called crusher run, is similar to crushed stone, but the pieces are smaller, ranging from dust to about 3/4 inch in diameter. This is preferred for driveways over regular crushed stone because it packs down well, drains well, and has better traction but is still relatively soft to walk on without shoes. 

Choosing the Right Gravel Size

With all these gravel sizes out there, what should you look for when creating a driveway? Here are some tips:

• Your local climate plays a significant role. If you're in an area that experiences heavy rainfall or snowfall, larger gravel sizes like crushed stone or quarry process might be more suitable. This consideration can help you avoid potential issues and ensure the longevity of your driveway.
• Think about maintenance: If you use pea gravel, which tends to wash away more easily than larger gravel, you will need to apply and spread it more often. Before choosing a size, consider how much time and effort you're willing to put into your driveway upkeep.
• Mix and match: Why settle for one size of gravel when you can mix sizes to get a look but also an added measure of stability and drainage? You can make a great-looking and practical driveway by mixing different sizes of gravel. Try using pea gravel for the top layer and larger crushed stone or quarry process underneath.

Maintenance Tips for Gravel Driveways

Regardless of the size of gravel you choose, maintaining your gravel driveway is all about regular maintenance. Some tips include:

• Rake and reapply regularly: Smaller pea aggregate might require replacing more frequently. However, the extra effort of spreading fresh material now and then can also ensure an even distribution over time.
• Patch up the potholes promptly: If the patio has any sinkholes or large potholes, add extra gravel ASAP to prevent further damage.
• Pull up weeds and vegetation: Watch for weed or plants breaking through the gravel and remove them immediately.

In Conclusion

This is to say that the right size of gravel for your driveway is not a one-size-fits-all situation but rather a question of needs and preference. So, take all we said into account and decide on a size that is most cosmetically fitting but also grants you the stability and drainage you need. And remember, gravel driveway maintenance must be regular if you want to enjoy your beautiful driveway for a long time.

If you want to take it to the next level and get professional input and advice on the gravel size, call a local contractor or landscaping professional. Marion Gravel Driveways & Grading is a full-service driveway installation and maintenance company located in Marion, IL. Our team of experts can help you choose the best gravel size for your specific needs and preferences. Contact us today for more information!