With the wide choice of driveway materials available, from resin driveways and block paving to concrete slabs and asphalt, homeowners and developers can pick a medium to complement the style of house. But what about gravel?
Maintaining a gravel driveway
Some would argue that a gravel driveway requires a lot of maintenance, with the possibility of weeds growing up through it and patches appearing in it. However, the key is making sure a professional-grade weed control membrane is installed underneath. If weeds do sneak through the membrane, they can be pulled quickly, and raking the gravel will keep patches at bay. Every couple of years fresh gravel can be added to top up levels.
Gravel driveways are cost-effective
Unlike other driveway solutions, gravel is a cost-effective way to cover a large area quickly. At Witham Timber, prices start from a little over £4 for a mini bag of 20mm gravel (25kg) up to less than £65 for (850kg) *
Installation
A gravel driveway is quick and straightforward to install and within the reach of an experienced DIY-er. Once the base for your driveway has been cleared, leaving firm ground that is not top soil, a sub-base of MOT Type 1 should be added and compacted. The weed membrane is then positioned on top of the sub-base and the gravel added.
A gravel driveway is attractive
With a selection of colours available, gravel makes an attractive driveway that will enhance any style of home. Much more interesting than a plain black asphalt drive, gravel will age well and looks particularly lovely in the rain, when the colours are brought out even more.
Know when someone is approaching the property
The familiar light crunching sound of feet or tyres on a gravel driveway will let you know when visitors have arrived but it will also alert you to anyone unexpected on your property. Knowing that occupants have been made aware of their presence will also act as a deterrent to opportunistic thieves who might think twice and pass your home by.
Gravel is environmentally-friendly
The permeability of gravel allows rainwater to drain away evenly into the ground without the need for access to drains. This reduces the risk of drains overflowing, for example in times of flooding due to torrential rain, and is much better for the environment.
Which gravel should I choose?
Gravel size - for driveways that will see vehicular traffic, a larger size gravel such as the 20mm Golden Gravel or the 20mm pea shingle will bed down over time to create a flatter surface. Smaller gravel (10mm or smaller) get caught up in tyre treads or trodden into the house via shoe treads.
Gravel colour – it’s important that the gravel you choose will complement the exterior of your property. Yellow and cream-colours, such as Golden Gravel, are a popular and classic choice and create an attractive contrast set against dark brickwork. The dark tones of pea shingle work well in urban and rural settings and complement grey and beige brickwork.
Driveway gravel from Witham Timber
As suppliers of MOT Type 1 Sub-base, weed control membrane and gravel, we have everything you need to install a gravel driveway. For advice on quantities required, or for any other help, please email the team at sales@withamtimber.co.uk or give us a call on 01205 359188
*prices correct at time of writing and may be subject to change