
Using a gravel pad for a shed foundation instead of concrete can save you money and be easily removed if needed. Here’s what you need to know as you budget for the project.
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The average cost of a gravel driveway is about $1.25 to $2 per square foot, including the cost of materials, equipment, and professional installation. For example, a 16-by-30-foot driveway costs about $1,500. Cost factors include the type of gravel, how thick the gravel is installed, the condition of the landscape, and labor costs. Overall costs will vary depending on where you live and how accessible the job site is.
Because gravel moves, it requires different maintenance than asphalt or concrete. Here are a few maintenance tips for your gravel driveway. Every few years (or as often as needed):
Grade and level your driveway
Rake to fill holes and ruts
Compact any refilled potholes
Remove weeds with herbicide or by hand
Spray it with water to reduce the amount of dust kicked up
Avoid using a snowplow during winter months
A gravel driveway should last for up to 100 years with proper upkeep, which is minimal. Maintaining a gravel driveway includes grading and adding fresh gravel to fill in potholes. Otherwise, a gravel driveway holds up well to all kinds of weather. Plowing in the winter can be challenging and the gravel can develop ruts or potholes that need to be repaired, but the cost and longevity of gravel compared to concrete, asphalt, and pavers makes gravel an economical option, especially for long and/or wide driveways.
A gravel driveway should be at least 4 to 6 inches deep, depending on the soil it’s installed on. Softer soil that doesn’t drain well should have a deeper gravel driveway. Deeper gravel will mean you spend more on materials and labor, but you’ll get a more stable driveway and avoid damage that needs to be filled or graded flat again.
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Using a gravel pad for a shed foundation instead of concrete can save you money and be easily removed if needed. Here’s what you need to know as you budget for the project.
Gravel is loose rock that has been naturally eroded and is a popular choice for landscaping or pathways. Learn more about what gravel is used for in this article.
Before you contact a pro to lay gravel or loose fill for your driveway, walkway, or garden, review these gravel installation questions.
This guide on how to lay pea gravel outlines the materials and steps needed to complete this landscaping project on your own.
The layer of dust on your driveway makes its way onto everything, including your car and windows. Learn how you can get rid of dust on your gravel driveway.
Pea gravel is a budget-friendly, low-maintenance option for landscaping, pathways, and driveways. Learn about its pros and cons, best uses, and top alternatives to see if it’s the right choice for your project.