Posted on 25th November 2022
Pulling onto a stylish driveway when you return from work after a long shift is one of the best feelings. If you are looking to improve the look of your home, laying a gravel driveway is an affordable and creative project to add some extra flair to your property.
Even if you have no landscaping experience, creating a gravel driveway is a simple project that can be achieved no matter what level of DIY capabilities you possess.
AT Stone & Surfaces Direct we have put together a handy step-by-step guide to help you design a new driveway that looks amazing.
A gravel driveway is an affordable and attractive exterior surface that effortlessly improves the appearance of your home as you enter it. With a wide range of loose decorative aggregates in a choice of colours, shapes and sizes available, it is easy to personalise your look.
Our decorative stones can also be used for a variety of other landscaping surfaces, such as patios, pathways, rockeries, gardens and decorative edging. However one of the most popular applications is driveways due to the many benefits they offer.
To get started with your gravel driveway project, you will require the following materials -
The first step is to choose the gravel chippings you wish to use. The great thing about gravel is that it is extremely versatile and suits almost any style or age of property.
However, it is important to consider what type, size and colour of gravel is best suited to your individual project. Browse our range of decorative aggregates here.
Once you have made a decision on the gravel, it’s time to measure out the driveway space. This will allow you to calculate exactly how much gravel you will need to order for your landscaping project.
To save you time, we have a useful calculator tool on our website to do the maths for you.
This step is optional, however we think it’s an important part of a driveway design process because it contributes to the overall appearance.
For example, a solid block border helps contain the gravel within the driveway area or different coloured edging can complement your colour scheme beautifully.
Alternatively, choosing medium to large sized rockery stones creates a natural border for your driveway and will keep the gravel in the perimeter of the space. Check out our rockery products here.
Before laying the gravel driveway, it’s essential to prepare the area first. You may need to begin by removing debris, turf or topsoil and then move on to digging out the area to a depth of between 50mm and 200mm.
We recommend leaving a minimum of 50mm for the gravel and 150mm for the sub-base if you plan on including one. Next, ensure the base of the driveway is flat and compacted.
If you are including a sub-base, we recommend applying a layer of MOT Type 1 to the base of the driveway. This will ensure your driveway remains stable and doesn’t sink under the weight of parked vehicles.
At this stage, it’s extremely important to use a weed prevention membrane to prevent unwanted weeds forming. It will also allow any water to drain through the surface of the gravel.
Cut the sheet to the desired shape and place it on top of the compared MOT Type 1.
Finally it’s time to lay your gravel. Shovel your chosen decorative aggregates onto your weed prevention membrane, making sure the gravel layer is at least 50mm deep and the gravel is spread evenly across the surface. If needed, use a rake to help with this.
With over 25 years of experience distributing natural stone paving, porcelain paving, aggregates, rockeries and interior solutions worldwide; Stone & Surfaces Direct are the people to help you achieve the perfect patio, garden, or home interior.
Talk to one of our experienced stone professionals about your specific needs today.
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