When building a new gravel driveway, recycled concrete material can reduce your material costs. With proper installation, you can enjoy years of service with your new driveway.
Layout
Decide where you want your driveway. As you think about the driveway approach, remember a larger driveway will be more expensive. Remember to keep in mind any drainage issues. Upon completion, mark your new driveway with paint.
Grading
With the layout complete, its time for the machine and labor work. Carve out the area of the new driveway. Consolidate all materials, away from the project area. If possible, lose the materials on site. If this is not possible, stock pile your excavated spoils. Later you can call for dump trucks to haul off the excavated spoils.
Spoils & Haul Off
When removing materials from your site, be prepared. Have the necessary machines and labor on site. Load the dump trucks quickly and efficiently. This will help reduce your material haul off fees.
Do The Math
Material Quantity & Order
Formula For Stone material Order Is:
Length (100 ft.) X Width (10 ft.) = 1000 sq. ft.
1000 sq. ft. X Depth (4 inches (1/3 of a foot or .333)) = 333.33
333.33 / 27 = 12.34 Cubic Yards
Stone Is Sold By The Ton – See Conversion Math Below
12.34 Cubic Yards X 1500 Pounds = 18,518.33 Pounds
18,518.33 Pounds / 2000 Pounds = 9.25 Tons
Drainage
Water runoff should always be kept in mind. Slope and grade your new driveway in a manner to work with the existing site conditions. You may need to install drainage, due to reduce erosion and or other issues.
As you look at your project, you will know if you need a professional installer. The driveway length and site conditions, will speak to you and I am confident you will know when you need a professional. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional.
Material Placement
Help the driver back up to the unloading area. Check for overhead wires and branches. Drop the recycled concrete material where you need it. Always try to push the material. Plan and execute your work to avoid twisting on your new project area.
Rolling
After recycled concrete material placement work the material to uniform grade. You want uniform thickness and defined lines for your new driveway area. If you don’t have a machine roller, drive over the material with the rented machine. Again, avoid sharp turns on your new driveway.
Clean Up
With any project, remember to pick up all your trash and project debris. Place all this material in the correct bins for proper disposal.
Benefits
Porosity
This helps to safe guard the environment. This type of driveway will produce less water runoff for storm drains.
Affordability
This type of driveway will forego the cost of asphalt and or concrete material. In addition, you can avoid the expense of professional contractor placement equipment and material costs.
Low Maintenance
The recycled driveway is easy to maintain and repair. Depending on the size of your driveway, your repair can be completed with a wheel barrow or material and a shovel. It’s always a good idea to have some material on hand.
Long Lasting
This material can last indefinitely. The recycled concrete driveway material can wash away and or subside and will need periodic maintenance. With regular and proper maintenance, your recycled concrete driveway can provide years of service.
Gentle Aesthetics
Your gravel driveway should blend in well with the surrounding area.
DIY Installation
This type of driveway does not require a highly skilled professional. Depending on the complexity of the driveway, a DIY should be able to install a suitable driveway.
Disadvantages
Code Compliant Issues
Check with your local building department for code compliance.
Snow Plowing
During the winter, snow plows can wreck the driveway. Depending on your snow fall, expect to repair the driveway in the Spring time.
Monthly Maintenance
Driveways with a longer lengths and increased traffic need continued maintenance.
For a gravel driveway in Fairfax Station, Virginia, we provide monthly service. The driveway is approximately 1/2 mile long and it serves 9 homes. With trash pick ups, newspaper and package deliveries (the drivers are merciless), daily family and guest traffic, this driveway needs continuous maintenance. We are grateful for the job.
New Gravel Driveway Prep
New Gravel Driveway Wrap Up
Proper Driveway Maintenance Ensures Longevity
Regular maintenance is essential for extending the life of your gravel driveway. Address issues like potholes or erosion promptly to prevent further damage. By keeping a close eye on your driveway’s condition and performing routine upkeep, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your driveway remains functional for years. Simple tasks like filling low spots with additional recycled concrete or grading the surface can make a significant difference. Maintaining your gravel driveway not only preserves its appearance but also enhances its durability.
Summary
Dirt Connections was started with one goal in mind: providing quality residential and commercial construction services to clients on time and on budget. Reach out for more information on how we can support your next project.
For your convenience our estimates are free and by appointment. Call 703-940-9949 for a free estimate today!