Category: Blog

Gravel driveways are a popular choice for homeowners for many reasons, such as cost-effectiveness and versatility in complementing various landscape designs. However, regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your gravel driveway in optimal condition. Without proper care, your driveway can quickly become uneven and riddled with potholes. 

Need to know more about how to protect your investment and care for your driveway throughout the year? This blog has you covered. Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, our guide will provide the essential tips to maintain your gravel driveway and keep it in tip-top shape. 

Learn More About the Best Gravel Driveway Maintenance Tool: The Driveway Scraper

Throughout this blog, we’ll discuss how to use the Driveway Scraper to keep your driveway in excellent condition. If you’re not familiar with the Driveway Scraper, we’ll explain what it is now so you won’t be confused when we refer to it later.

The Driveway Scraper is a specialized tool designed specifically for gravel driveway maintenance. It’s engineered to smooth out uneven areas, remove debris, and ensure proper drainage. This tool is incredibly beneficial for gravel driveway owners because it simplifies and streamlines the maintenance process, saving you time, money, and effort in the long run. 

Key Features and Benefits of the Driveway Scraper:

• Ease of Use: Simple to operate, making driveway maintenance accessible to everyone.
• Durability: Built to last, ensuring it can handle tough jobs and frequent use.
• Efficiency: Quickly levels and grades the driveway, reducing the time spent on maintenance.
• Improved Drainage: Helps maintain proper drainage slopes to prevent water accumulation.
• Cost-Effective: Reduces the need for professional services, saving you money in the long run.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Keeps your driveway looking neat and well-maintained throughout the year.

Using the Driveway Scraper ensures that your gravel driveway remains in excellent condition, no matter the season.

The Best Tips for Gravel Driveway Maintenance During All 4 Seasons

At Driveway Scraper, we know all the benefits of year-round gravel driveway maintenance and are here to give you the best tips for every season.  

Spring Maintenance

As the snow melts and the ground thaws, spring is the perfect time to inspect and repair any damage your gravel driveway may have endured over winter.

Inspect for Winter Damage

• Check for potholes, erosion, and displaced gravel and identify areas that need immediate attention.

Level and Grade the Driveway

• Use the Driveway Scraper to smooth out uneven areas.
• Ensure proper drainage to prevent water accumulation.

Replenish Gravel

• Add fresh gravel to areas that have thinned out over the winter.
• Be sure to compact the new gravel for a firm surface.

Edge Maintenance

• Clear vegetation and debris from the edges to maintain a clean boundary.

Summer Maintenance

Summer is one of the best times to address post-spring weed growth and potential erosion from summer storms.

Weed Control

• Remove weeds and grasses that can grow through the gravel. Lay down weed killers to prevent new growth. 

Regular Grading

• Grade the driveway to maintain a smooth surface during potential summer storms. 
• The Driveway Scraper simplifies this task, ensuring a consistently level driveway without needing professional services.

Monitor and Address Erosion

• Watch for signs of erosion after heavy rains.
• Use the Driveway Scraper to redistribute gravel and fill eroded areas, preventing further damage and maintaining the integrity of your driveway.

Fall Maintenance

As fall approaches, preparing your gravel driveway for the upcoming winter months is essential. This season is all about reinforcing your driveway to withstand colder weather and potential snow and ice.

Prepare for Winter

• Inspect the driveway for any repairs needed before winter.
• Use the Driveway Scraper to ensure the driveway is level and well-graded, preventing water pooling and ice formation.

Clear Leaves and Debris

• Remove fallen leaves and organic matter that can cause decay and affect the integrity of your driveway.

Check Drainage

• Ensure drainage systems are clear and functional to handle fall rains and melting snow.
• Use the Driveway Scraper to maintain drainage slopes, preventing water accumulation and erosion.

Add Fresh Gravel

• Top the gravel to maintain a thick, durable layer that can endure winter conditions.
• The Driveway Scraper makes it easy to distribute new gravel evenly, reinforcing your driveway’s surface and stability.

Winter Maintenance

Winter presents unique challenges for maintaining a gravel driveway, but with the right tools and strategies, you can keep it in excellent condition throughout the season.

Snow and Ice Management

• Shovel or plow snow regularly to prevent buildup.
• Use sand or gravel for traction instead of salt, which can harm the driveway.

Treat and Prevent Potholes

• Regularly check your driveway for potholes caused by freezing and thawing cycles.
• Use the Driveway Scraper to fill and compact potholes, maintaining a smooth and safe surface.

Regular Inspections

• Conduct regular inspections for any damage caused by freezing and thawing and look for signs of heaving, cracking, or erosion.
• Use the Driveway Scraper to make necessary adjustments and repairs, keeping your driveway in optimal condition.

Invest in a Driveway Scraper for Hassle-Free Gravel Driveway Maintenance All Year Round!

Maintaining your gravel driveway throughout the year ensures it remains functional, safe, and visually appealing. Each season brings its own set of challenges, from repairing winter damage in the spring to managing snow and ice in the winter. By following these seasonal maintenance tips, you can protect your investment and enjoy a well-maintained driveway all year round.

The Driveway Scraper is an essential tool that simplifies and streamlines the maintenance process, making it easy to keep your gravel driveway in optimal condition. Whether you need to level and grade in the spring or repair after snow and ice in the winter, the Driveway Scraper has you covered.

Don’t wait until your driveway needs major repairs. Invest in a Driveway Scraper today for hassle-free gravel driveway maintenance all year round. Your driveway will thank you, and you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing it’s well cared for.

The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only. You should not rely upon the material or information on the website as a basis for making business, legal, or other decisions.

When selecting materials for a driveway, homeowners are faced with many choices—concrete, asphalt, pavers, and gravel, to name a few. Each option comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. 

Gravel is a popular choice for many property owners due to its cost-effectiveness and versatility. We’re here to showcase the advantages and disadvantages of gravel driveways to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your property. 

If you choose to invest in a gravel driveway, owning a tool like the Agritek Driveway Scraper can simplify the maintenance of a gravel driveway, enhancing its longevity and functionality.

The Pros and Cons of Gravel Driveways

Whether you’re building a new driveway or considering revamping an existing one, understanding the pros and cons of gravel driveways is key to making an informed decision.

Pros of Gravel Driveways

Cost-Effective: 

One of the most compelling advantages of gravel driveways is their affordability. Compared to materials like concrete or asphalt, gravel is significantly less expensive – both in terms of material cost and installation. A gravel driveway can also reduce the long-term costs associated with extensive sub-base preparations that other materials might require.

Quick Installation: 

Gravel driveway installation can be completed in a day or two, depending on the size of the area. This is considerably quicker than alternatives such as concrete, which requires time for installation and curing before it can be used. This speedy setup minimizes the inconvenience of having an unusable driveway during longer installation processes.

Permeability: 

Gravel driveways offer excellent drainage, naturally allowing water to permeate into the ground below. This feature is particularly beneficial in areas prone to heavy rains or where water runoff could pose problems. By reducing surface water accumulation, gravel driveways mitigate potential flooding and minimize the strain on local drainage systems.

Aesthetic Flexibility:

Gravel is available in a variety of types, sizes, and colors, making it easy to match your driveway to the aesthetic of your home or landscape. Whether you prefer a rustic look with traditional gray stones or a more polished appearance with colored pea gravel, the customization possibilities are vast. 

Cons of Gravel Driveways

• Maintenance Needs: Regular raking and replenishing of gravel are required to keep it in tip-top shape.
• Weed Growth: Some homeowners have challenges with weeds invading their driveway and the need for periodic treatments.
• Snow and Ice Removal: It can be difficult at times to clear snow without displacing gravel.
• Ruts and Erosion: Gravel driveways have the potential for rut formation and erosion, especially in high-traffic areas.

The Importance of Gravel Driveway Maintenance

Maintaining a gravel driveway is crucial for preserving its functionality and aesthetic appeal over time. Regular maintenance not only prevents the formation of potholes and ruts but also helps control weed growth and ensure proper drainage. Without consistent upkeep, a gravel driveway can quickly become uneven and unsightly, diminishing the overall curb appeal of your property.

Introducing the Agritek Driveway Scrapers: The Ideal Solution!

For effective gravel driveway maintenance, look no further than the Agritek Driveway Scraper. This robust tool attaches easily to the 3-point hookup on your tractor, enabling you to smooth out and recondition your gravel driveway, paths, or lots with precision and ease.

• The Driveway Scraper is designed to efficiently redistribute the gravel on your driveway. As you pull it along with your tractor, it collects gravel pushed to the sides or into depressions and spreads it evenly across the surface. This action helps fill in potholes and level out any ruts, ensuring a smooth and stable driveway surface.

• Investing in a Driveway Scraper can lead to significant long-term savings. Maintaining your driveway yourself reduces the need for frequent professional resurfacing services, which can be costly. Over time, the cost of owning and operating a Driveway Scraper is often less than the cumulative expenses of professional maintenance services.

• Driveway Scrapers are not only effective but also user-friendly. They are designed for easy operation, making it possible for most property owners to use them without specialized skills or training. 

• The efficiency of the Driveway Scraper ensures that driveway maintenance can be completed quickly and with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy a well-maintained driveway with less hassle.

By incorporating regular use of a Driveway Scraper into your maintenance routine, you can enhance the longevity and appearance of your gravel driveway, ultimately making it a more practical and attractive choice for your property.

Secure Your Gravel Driveway’s Future with Driveway Scraper

Gravel driveways offer aesthetic versatility, cost-effectiveness, and quick installation, making them an excellent choice for many homeowners. However, like any other home improvement, a gravel driveway requires regular maintenance to retain its beauty and functionality. 

By investing in the proper maintenance tools, such as the Agritek Driveway Scraper, you can ensure that your driveway remains in top condition, enhancing both your property’s curb appeal and value. 

For more information on how our products can simplify your driveway maintenance or to make a purchase, please reach out. Our team is here to help you maximize your investment and keep your driveway looking its best year-round.

The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only. You should not rely upon the material or information on the website as a basis for making business, legal, or other decisions.

If you own a home or a business with a gravel driveway, you may have experienced the frustration of potholes forming over time. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also be hazardous to your car and visitors. We’re here to help! 

In this blog, we’ll provide a step-by-step process on how to easily fix those potholes in a gravel driveway. With our expert tips and recommendations for equipment, you’ll be able to restore your driveway’s functionality and appearance in no time. 

How to Fix Potholes in a Gravel Driveway: 5 Steps

Gravel driveways are a fantastic, affordable option to obtain a high-quality driveway. However, potholes can occur from time to time, so it’s important to know how to repair them. 

Step 1: Remove Debris and Loose Gravel

The first step in fixing potholes in your gravel driveway is removing debris or loose gravel from the affected area. Use a shovel or rake to clear out any leaves, dirt, or rocks that may have accumulated in the pothole. This will ensure that the repair material will adhere properly to the surface.

Step 2: Fill the Pothole with Coarse Gravel

Next, fill the pothole with coarse gravel to a depth about 3 inches below the surface. Make sure the stone is well-compacted using a hand tamper or a mechanical compactor. This will provide a solid base for the repair material and prevent future potholes from forming.

Step 3: Add Fine Gravel and Compact

Once the coarse gravel is in place, add a layer of fine gravel on top. This helps create a smoother surface and makes the repair less noticeable. Again, use a tamper or compactor to compact the fine gravel down into the pothole.

Step 4: Apply a Binder

The next step is to apply a binder to the surface of the repair. A binder is a material that will help to hold the gravel together and prevent it from moving around. You can use a commercial binder or create your own by mixing together water and a small amount of dish soap. Apply the binder evenly over the surface of the repair.

Step 5: Add a Topping Layer

Finally, add a layer of topping gravel on top of the binder. Ensure the topping gravel is well-compacted, and use a hand tamper to ensure a smooth surface. Allow the repair to dry for at least 24 hours before using the driveway.

How To Prevent Potholes in a Gravel Driveway

The best way to fix potholes is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Regular maintenance and repairs can help avoid future potholes from forming, so keep an eye on your driveway and address any issues as soon as they arise.

Some of the best tips we can offer for gravel driveway maintenance include:

• Rake your driveway
• Fix potholes as soon as they occur
• Don’t use snowplows
• Keep a close eye on drainage issues
• Periodically spray your driveway with a garden hose to keep the dust weighed down and loosen up any dirt clumps that get stuck
• Regularly grade your driveway

Invest in a Top-of-the-Line Driveway Grader

Also called scrapers, box graders, or motor graders, driveway graders are tools you tow behind a truck or lawn tractor to smooth or grade a driveway or gravel roadway. This tool is vital for repairing potholes. 

If you want the best driveway scraper on the market, look no further than The Agritek Driveway Scraper. It attaches to the 3-point hookup on your tractor and allows you to smooth out and recondition your dirt or gravel driveway, path, or lot. It’s the ultimate tool for maintaining your driveway and getting the most out of your investment. Contact our team to learn more!

The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only. You should not rely upon the material or information on the website as a basis for making business, legal or other decisions.

A gravel driveway is a fantastic option if you need to install a new driveway at your home or business. They’re cost-effective, require minimal maintenance, allow for good drainage, and are customizable. Plus, gravel driveways are a do-it-yourself project that you can tackle yourself. 

If you want to know how to install a DIY gravel driveway, we’re here to help. We’ll list some of the necessary steps, helpful tips, and some of the best equipment required to complete the project. 

How To Install a DIY Gravel Driveway

Follow these seven steps to install your own gravel driveway. 

1. Mark the Path of the Driveway

Begin by determining the location of the driveway and marking the perimeter with landscape stakes and string.

2. Remove Grass and Topsoil

Remove any grass and topsoil from the designated area, either manually or by hiring a professional excavator.

3. Determine the Amount of Gravel Needed

Calculate the amount of gravel required by multiplying the driveway’s height, length, and depth to obtain the cubic feet needed, then dividing this by 27 to convert to cubic yards. If you need additional assistance with this step, you can consult with your gravel supplier to determine the number of tons of gravel necessary based on the selected stone.

4. Level the Path the Driveway Will Be On

Before laying down the gravel, you must level the driveway path by hand or with machinery. We also recommend installing a weed barrier to prevent unwanted growth.

5. Spread and Compact the Base Layer of Gravel

The first step of laying down the gravel is to spread and compact the first layer. We recommend using #4 crushed limestone for a firm foundation.

6. Spread the Middle Layer of Gravel

Then you can lay down the middle layer of gravel. We recommend using #53 crushed limestone to enable water drainage and promote compaction.

7. Spread and Smooth the Top Layer of Gravel

Finally, spread and smooth the top layer of gravel, typically #8 crushed limestone, river rock, or pea gravel, is best. 

DIY Gravel Driveway Helpful Tips

While installing a gravel driveway is something you can do on your own, it can be challenging. Don’t forget to follow these helpful tips along the way!

• Install Landscaping Fabric – Before laying down gravel, it’s best to put down a layer of landscaping fabric. This prevents the growth of plants and weeds beneath the surface and minimizes erosion and shifting. 
• Implement a Border Around the Driveway – Putting a border around the driveway to contain the movement of loose stones is highly recommended. If you do opt to install a border, lay down the bricks or cobblestones before spreading out the gravel. 
• Compact the Gravel Between Each Layer – As listed above, you’ll install three gravel layers. It’s crucial that you carefully compact each layer as you go. This will prevent erosion and the shifting of rocks. 
• Have the Right Tools – Before you start your DIY gravel driveway project, be sure you have the correct tools. You should have a shovel, rake, wheelbarrow, and landscape stakes and string. If you want the ultimate gravel driveway equipment, look to the Agritek Driveway Scraper. 

Invest in High-Quality Driveway Equipment

The Agritek Driveway Scraper is a piece of equipment used for driveway maintenance. It’s designed to scrape the surface of gravel driveways, removing potholes, ruts, and other imperfections that can develop over time.

The Driveway Scraper is typically attached to a tractor or other heavy machinery and dragged along the driveway’s surface to level the gravel and create a smooth surface. This can help improve the overall appearance of the driveway, make it safer and more functional to drive on, and prevent wear and tear.

If you’re interested in the Driveway Scraper, give our team a call or contact us online for more information. 

The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only. You should not rely upon the material or information on the website as a basis for making business, legal or other decisions.

Gravel driveways are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. They’re a high-quality, affordable solution compared to gravel and can even be a DIY project. If you’re interested in installing a gravel driveway, don’t jump the gun and purchase a truckload of gravel. You’ll need to do specific measurements to set yourself up for success. Plus, there are other factors to take into account, such as the type and size of gravel you choose. 

If you’re wondering, “How much gravel do I need for my driveway?” You’re in the right place.

A Guide To Installing a Gravel Driveway

What Is Gravel?

Gravel is loose rocks or stones that are larger than a grain of sand but smaller than cobble, with typical diameters ranging from 2.5 – 6.5 cm. There are different kinds of gravel, but it often consists of a mixture of rocks, sand, and clay. 

What Are the Benefits of a Gravel Driveway?

Some of the main benefits of gravel driveways are that they are budget-friendly and offer quick installation. They’re one of the most affordable types of driveways, with the average cost as low as $1.25 – $1.80 per square foot. Plus, if you have the right tools, maintenance can usually be done without hiring a professional, saving you even more money. 

How Much Gravel Do I Need for My Driveway?

Before you can determine how much gravel you’ll need for your driveway project, there are specific factors you need to consider: 

• The size of the area the gravel needs to cover
• The desired depth of the gravel surface
• The type of gravel you’re using

The Size of the Area the Gravel Needs To Cover:

1. First, measure the length and width of the area in feet. 

2. Then, multiply the length by the width to get your surface area in feet.

The Desired Depth of the Gravel Surface:

3. Determine your desired depth of the gravel on the driveway. It’s recommended that a gravel driveway should be at least 4 inches deep, but between 12 and 18 inches is ideal. 

4. After you have these three measurements – length, width, and depth, you can utilize a Gravel Driveway Calculator. 

There are many helpful tools available online, such as this gravel calculator that also allows you to convert your measurements into cubic yards, tons, and other units, which will be helpful when you’re communicating with your gravel supplier. 

The Type of Gravel You’re Using:

5. There are many types of gravel to choose from, depending on your preferred aesthetic and maintenance requirements. The most common types of gravel for driveways are crushed stone, pea gravel, and Jersey Shore gravel. When you make your gravel selection, your supplier can work with you to determine if your estimate needs to be altered. 

Additional Gravel Driveway Tips

After you’ve determined how much gravel you need for your project, you can make the order. You can purchase bags of gravel, but for large projects requiring 10 or more tons, it will probably be more cost effective to order a “loose load” delivered in a dump truck rather than individual bags.

No matter what kind of gravel you choose, you’ll likely need a tool to level it. For that, you can’t get better than our award-winning Agritek DS Series Driveway Scrapers. Our DS Series is available in three sizes and includes rigid and flat modes for flat or contoured surfaces. 

Not only will you be able to use our Driveway Scraper for installation, but also driveway maintenance. It’s recommended to grade your driveway at least twice a year to prevent vehicle damage and potholes, and that task with be a breeze with this tool. 

The Best Tool for Gravel Driveway Installation and Maintenance

Are you interested in learning more about our Agritk DS Series Driveway Scraper? We’d love to chat! Take a look at our website or contact our team today. The Driveway Scraper quickly and easily hooks up to your tractor and allows you to smooth out and recondition your dirt or gravel driveway, path, or lot. It’s the ultimate tool that allows you to extend the life of your gravel driveway. Check it out today!

The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only. You should not rely upon the material or information on the website as a basis for making business, legal or other decisions.

Are you preparing to install a parking lot? You’re probably deciding between concrete, asphalt,  and gravel. While concrete parking lots are a popular choice, there are many problems associated with them. We’ll dive into the most common parking lot problems you’ll encounter when you choose concrete and why gravel might be your best solution. 

5 Common Parking Lot Problems With Concrete

Since parking lots are exposed to cars, foot traffic, and weather elements, they experience a lot of wear and tear. Before investing in a concrete parking lot, familiarize yourself with the most common issues associated with them. 

1. Cracking

Concrete driveways can experience cracking due to internal and external forces. Heavy loads put pressure on the surface, and thermal changes can cause shrinking and expansion. When enough of these forces occur, the driveway will crack and will have structural damage. This can cause major safety issues for vehicles and pedestrians. 

2. Faulting

Faults in parking lots are elevation changes that form between two adjacent concrete slabs at the joints or cracks. Faulting is a result of an unstable subbase that shifts. When this occurs, you’re left with a non-level parking lot surface. 

3. Exposed Steel and Wire Mesh

Many concrete parking lots use steel mesh for additional reinforcement. When cracking occurs in the concrete, water and salt from the environment will infiltrate and end up corroding the mesh. Then this steel mesh will be visible from the surface, which will be both an eye sore and a safety risk. 

4. Deterioration 

Whenever it rains or snows, water will get trapped inside concrete parking lots and freeze. When it freezes, it will have nowhere to expand, resulting in built-up internal pressure, which will cause breaks in the bond of the concrete’s paste. This freeze-thaw damage can cause severe surface deterioration and cracking. 

5. Warping and Curling

As mentioned above, hot and cold temperatures can cause driveway surfaces to expand and contract. This can also result in the driveway’s edges warping and curling up. This is a foundational issue and can result in more severe problems, such as sinkholes, and may require extensive repairs or demolition.  

Why a Gravel Parking Lot Might Be Your Best Solution

If you’re concerned about investing your money in a concrete or asphalt parking lot only to have to make costly repairs, we understand. The best solution for you could be to opt for a gravel parking lot. Some of the best benefits of gravel parking lots and driveways include the following:

• Cost-efficient 
• Simple to install
• Easy to maintain
• Porous (mitigates issues caused by heavy rainfall)
• Many colors and materials are available 

Gravel Parking Lot Installation and Maintenance Made Easy

Are you interested in investing in a gravel parking lot or driveway? It’s essential to maintain the area to get the most out of your investment. Consider investing in the Driveway Scraper!

Our award-winning DS Series Driveway Scraper is perfect for leveling dirt and gravel driveways, parking lots, and playing surfaces. It attaches to the 3-point hookup on your tractor and is available in three sizes, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs. Contact our team today to learn more.

The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only. You should not rely upon the material or information on the website as a basis for making business, legal or other decisions.

When considering investing in a new driveway, you might wonder, “What is driveway grading?” We’ll tell you all about this process, why it’s important, and how you can grade and maintain your gravel driveway yourself. 

What is Driveway Grading?

Have you ever parked your car in a gravel driveway or parking lot and you’re surrounded by rain puddles that you have to maneuver? If so, you’ve encountered an area that hasn’t been properly graded. 

Grading is the process of implementing a level base during the construction of a driveway. When installing a gravel driveway, grading is the most crucial aspect of the process because it provides you with the best foundation possible for your driveway and sets you up for success. 

Why Is Grading a Driveway Important?

Over time, gravel driveways, roads, and parking lots shift and degrade over time – it’s only natural. When the driveway isn’t level and properly graded, you can encounter a lot of issues. 

If you don’t grade your driveway, you may experience the following:

• Water run and washouts during heavy rain
• Washboard ruts
• Potholes
• Compaction of the dirt or gravel

When these issues arise, they can cause long-term damage to your driveway and vehicles driving over it. Ruts and potholes can wreak havoc on your suspension or bend your rims. Plus, the more washouts you have during rain storms, the more likely you’ll have to re-gravel your driveway.

Can You Grade a Gravel Driveway by Yourself?

You can grade and maintain a gravel driveway, including grading by hand, using a driveway grader, and using a tractor. If your driveway has just a couple of potholes and you’re trying to save money, grading by hand is a valid solution (though it isn’t usually a long-term solution).

If you’re re-grading your driveway by hand, you’ll want to focus on the compaction of the pothole surface. First, you’ll loosen up the hole with a shovel or rake. Then, add new gravel slowly and compact the materials as you go. You can use a five-gallon bucket to help with compaction or drive over it with your vehicle. 

Invest in the Driveway Scraper To Maintain Your Gravel Driveway Yourself

If you constantly find yourself needing to grade a driveway, parking lot, or other dirt or gravel surface, investing in high-quality equipment to help you do it more efficiently is a good idea. 

We invite you to take a look at our Driveway Scraper. Available in three different sizes and with a couple of optional accessories, it’s a versatile tool that can help you get the job done quickly and effectively. 

The Driveway Scraper quickly and easily hooks up to your tractor and allows you to smooth out and recondition your dirt or gravel driveway, path, or lot. Interested in learning more? Contact our team today, and they’d be happy to answer any questions you have!

The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only. You should not rely upon the material or information on the website as a basis for making business, legal or other decisions.

Gravel driveways are one of the best ways to cut costs when installing a new driveway, but they are susceptible to erosion. You’ll need to perform regular maintenance to prevent gravel driveway erosion. That way, you’ll get the most out of your investment! 

How To Prevent Gravel Driveway Erosion

Do you need to know how to prevent gravel driveway erosion? We’re here to help! Read on to learn about our gravel driveway maintenance tips, plus some information about repairs and the perfect tool to keep your driveway in tip-top shape year-round.

Follow These Five Steps:

Step 1:

Start by constructing your driveway with crusher gravel. Typically, crusher gravel will form a more compact surface and resist erosion. 

Step 2:

When you apply the gravel, form a crown in the center of the driveway. It should be higher in the middle and taper out to the sides. The crown’s height will help divert water from the center of the drive to the sides and reduce erosion. 

Step 3:

Install water bars along the driveway at a 30-degree angle to the road. Water bars are cross sections of the driveway fortified with treated lumber and rebar spikes. They help divert water to the sides of the driveway, thus reducing the likelihood of erosion. 

Step 4:

Dig trenches along the driveway and line them with gravel or vegetation. They’ll catch water runoff and prevent erosion over time. 

Step 5:

Plant absorbant shrubs or trees along the gravel driveway to help soak up excess water. It will prevent runoff channels from forming and erosion from occurring. 

How to Repair a Gravel Driveway After Erosion

Over time, it’s almost guaranteed that your gravel driveway will lose volume due to gravel displacement and pressure from vehicles. To prevent major problems and costly repairs, it’s best to perform routine maintenance and make repairs when you notice damage has occurred. 

Perform Routine Maintenance

Walking your driveway regularly with a rake in hand while keeping your eye out for potential issues is best to do periodically. If you spot any stray objects that shouldn’t be there (trash, leaves, limbs, other debris, etc.), go ahead and rake those out. 

Scrape off any soil buildup that occurs along the sides of the driveways, replace any missing or misplaced edging, and fill any depressions up with fresh gravel. If needed, you should also reshape the crown. 

Take matters into your own hands, add an inch of new gravel to your driveway annually, and compact it down after spreading. This will help prevent major erosion from occurring. 

Make Timely Repairs

As soon as you notice any significant damage to your driveway, such as depressions, channels, or areas of gravel thinning, you should take action immediately and make any necessary repairs before erosion worsens. 

Evenly distribute what gravel is left, rake any displaced gravel back onto the driveway, and fill all the grooves or potholes with freshly crushed stones. Using a rake or shovel, level the area, and compact it down with a compactor or drive your vehicle across it several times. Lastly, restore the driveway’s crown. 

Invest in the Best Gravel Driveway Maintenance Tool

Gravel is a fantastic driveway solution, but it requires some maintenance. Take matters into your own hands and invest in the Agritek Driveway Scraper.

The Driveway Scraper is available in multiple sizes and easily attached to your tractor or mower to safely maintain that steep gravel driveway. It has front blades to smooth out high spots, while rear blades use the material from those high spots to fill in any low areas, ensuring everything is even once you’re done. It works on both flat and contour surfaces.

If you’re interested in the Driveway Scraper, give our team a call or contact us online for more information. 

The material and information contained on this website is for general information purposes only. You should not rely upon the material or information on the website as a basis for making business, legal or other decisions.

Too often, we neglect our driveways because they’re just one of those difficult problems to solve. But would your life be easier if you had an asphalt driveway, instead of gravel? Let’s take a closer look at the differences between the two, so you can make the best choice for your home. 

When deciding on a driveway material, it’s important to weigh your options. The material you choose can affect its appearance, durability, maintenance, functionality, and of course, your budget. Here’s everything you need to know about the two options:

Gravel vs. Asphalt Driveways

If you’re considering installing a new driveway, you might be considering gravel vs. asphalt driveways. Both options have pros and cons, and we’ll dive into them so you can make an educated decision. 

What Are Gravel Driveways?

Gravel is any loose stone or rock larger than a piece of sand but smaller than cobble. The size range is from 1/10 inch to 2 ½ inches in diameter. Gravel can be used for many applications and is a common material throughout the United States for driveways. 

What Are Asphalt Driveways?

Asphalt is one of the most common materials for driveways, roads, and parking lots. It’s a semi-solid form of petroleum and is made up of a mixture of crushed stone, gravel, sand, and bitumen. Bitumen is a byproduct of petroleum that holds the mixture together. 

What Are the Pros and Cons of Gravel Driveways?

Gravel is a popular option for driveways because it’s cheaper than other materials, but what are the downsides? Do they outweigh the upsides? Take a look and decide for yourself. 

The Pros of Gravel Driveways

• Budget-friendly – Gravel is one of the most affordable materials for driveways, with the average cost being between $1.25 and $1.80 per square foot.
• Variety of styles available – Gravel comes in a variety of colors, so it’s easy to find an option that complements your home’s aesthetic. 
• Quick installation – Laying a gravel driveway can be done in one day and used immediately after finishing. 
• Easy repairs – If your driveway gets potholes, you can easily repair them by adding fresh gravel to the area. 

The Cons of Gravel Driveways

• Dirty – When you drive down gravel driveways, dust, dirt, and debris can fly up and cause your vehicle or home to become dirty. 
• Difficult snow and ice removal – If you live in a cold climate, you might encounter trouble removing snow and ice from your gravel driveway. Some snow blowers and plows can’t be used because they will disturb the crushed rock.
• Prone to ruts – Gravel driveways with a high traffic level may be prone to developing ruts. 
• Requires maintenance – To get the most out of your investment, you’ll need to maintain your gravel driveway regularly. This includes regrading, raking, removing debris, pulling weeds, fixing holes, etc. 

What Are the Pros and Cons of Asphalt Driveways?

A high-quality asphalt driveway can perform similarly to concrete driveways but at a fraction of the cost. However, asphalt driveways are far more expensive than gravel driveways. Take a look at the pros and cons of asphalt driveways to decide if it’s the right option for your home. 

The Pros of Asphalt Driveways

• Long lifespan – With proper maintenance, asphalt driveways can last between 12 and 35 years. 
• Sleek Appearance – Asphalt offers a sleeker and more orderly appearance compared to gravel driveways. 
• Flexible in cold climates – Asphalt is a petroleum product, so it’s flexible and less crack resistant than concrete. It’s also less likely to be damaged by salt and ice melt.
• Easy installation – Professionals can easily install asphalt driveways, usually within one day. 

The Cons of Asphalt Driveways

• Higher price – Asphalt costs more than gravel driveways, coming in at about $2 to $6 per square foot. 
• Style limitations – Black is the only color available for asphalt driveways. 
• Required maintenance – Asphalt driveways should be sealed every two to five years, and cracks and holes should be repaired as soon as possible.
• Prone to heat – Asphalt can reach high temperatures during hot weather conditions. It can become pliable and soft, which causes indentations and marks.

Should You Install a Gravel or Asphalt Driveway?

To summarize, asphalt driveways provide a strong, flat surface that’s easy to take care of during winter months. Gravel is significantly less expensive and requires maintenance, but it can be done yourself. Plus, it comes in an array of styles and colors. Weigh your options and make an informed decision that’s best for your property. 

Make the Most Out of Your Gravel Driveway Investment

If you’re interested in installing a gravel driveway, invest in Agritek’s Driveway Scraper. You can maintain and grade your gravel driveway anytime you want. You’ll be able to make the most out of your investment and keep your driveway in tip-top condition all year long. 

Need more info? Contact our experienced professionals today! 

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