Get matched with top stone and gravel pros in Mapleton, IL

Gravel is an inexpensive patio flooring option, with loose stones placed in between edging. Installation is less intense than that of pavers, but you’ll still need to place a layer of gravel base over compacted soil before adding the decorative gravel. Gravel can be messy if you have pets or kids who frequently run from the backyard into the home.

A gravel driveway can be a very long-lasting option, with a lifespan that can reach 100 years or more if properly installed and maintained. However, estimates can vary, with some sources suggesting a range of 10 to 30 years, while others cite 50 to 100 years.

The key to maximizing its longevity is proper installation and routine upkeep. This includes ensuring the driveway is properly graded and leveled, using landscaping fabric, and having a rock base of at least four to six inches. Regular maintenance involves grading, adding fresh gravel to fill potholes and ruts, and addressing any drainage issues or pooling water promptly. While plowing in winter can be challenging, the durability and low cost of gravel make it an economical choice, especially for large driveways.

If you want to avoid burying your downspouts, several alternatives can help direct water away from your home's foundation. One option is to connect a rain barrel to your downspout. During a storm, the barrel collects water that you can later use for irrigating your lawn or garden. Another common solution is to install an above-ground downspout extension. This can be done in a couple of ways:

• Splash Guards: Placing a splash guard, available at most hardware stores, under your downspout can act as a simple funnel to direct water away from the house.

• Downspout Extensions: You can add an extension to the end of the downspout's elbow to carry water further into your yard. Some extensions are flexible, allowing you to maneuver them around landscaping.

These above-ground solutions are particularly useful if your home has a slab foundation that you cannot dig up. However, they have limitations. An extension may not move water as far from your home as an underground system. More importantly, if your yard slopes back toward your house, these methods will be ineffective, and burying your downspouts remains the best option to prevent potential flooding and water damage.

While there are several options for dust control, the best choice depends on factors like budget, environmental concerns, traffic volume, and local climate conditions. We recommend soybean oil soapstock, a byproduct of soybean oil, which acts similarly to petroleum-based products but is better for the environment. In addition, salts like calcium chloride and lignin sulfonate are effective agents for keeping gravel driveways moist when combined with water.