Gravel driveways are becoming a familiar look in many rural areas and residential neighborhoods. Gravel is an affordable, easy-to-maintain, and easy-to-design option for homeowners.
Regular maintenance and repair of a gravel driveway can maximize your return on investment by prolonging its structure and life expectancy. Luckily, repairs for gravel driveways are cost-effective and problems resulting from regular usage can be resolved quickly.
Restoring an entire driveway may appear to be a daunting task. If you have the right supplies, equipment, and ample amount of time and physical strength, the repairs can be made easily. It is beneficial to contact your local landscapers for accurate and long-standing restorations.
Signs of Damage
A vital step towards restoration is the recognition of flaws in the driveway. Gravel damages are usually evident in the form of potholes and water issues.
Delaying repairs of small damages can result in bigger problems. Always be aware of water issues in your driveway. Take notice of eroding surfaces, pooling of water on top of the driveway, and gravel gets washed away.
Filling the Potholes
Fixing potholes in one part of the driveway using gravel from another part offers a temporary solution. However, it does not account for a long-term repair and can potentially result in significant problems.
The most appropriate method of repairing potholes would be to widen out the area around the hole and pour new and fresh gravel into it. The process will result in the formation of a new broad surface that will contribute to the overall durability of your driveway.
Improve Drainage
A few simple steps can be taken to resolve any water issues that may be putting your driveway at risk. It is essential to monitor the level of the driveway compared to the property around it.
The driveway should be higher compared to the rest of the property in order to help water flow away from it. It is incredibly beneficial for driveways to have an elevated center so the water can be allowed to run down from the sides. Installing drain pipes can also divert water away from your property and prevent your yard from getting impacted by the water.
Maintenance of the Gravel Driveway
Inspection
Examining your driveway regularly can help you detect and fix problems while they are small. Take a few minutes every week to briefly inspect your driveway, searching for any signs of low points, water damage, and structural weakness. Routine checkups will help you save money and time.
Clean up
Raking over the gravel can clean your driveway surface of any sticks, grass, debris, and leaves. The routine will enhance the appearance of your driveway and give you the opportunity to have a thorough look at the area once a week.
Edging
Building a fence or border around the gravel driveway can boost the appearance of the area and contain gravel, preventing them from spreading to other areas.
Fresh Gravel
Despite regular maintenance, driveways are bound to loose gravel over time, since vehicular movements cause constant shifting. Applying a new one-inch layer of gravel to your driveway each year can prevent severe erosion.
Contact Schlager Excavating!
Not having the correct techniques and time may hinder the repairs and maintenance of your gravel driveway. Fortunately, Schlager Excavating offers homeowners a wide range of services in Parry Sound and Muskoka. Contact us for all landscaping and property needs at 705-732-1802. You may also visit us at schlager.ca to view our portfolio and a range of assistance we order the help keep your property in excellent condition.