Gravel For Driveway
Choosing Gravel For Driveway
If you’re on this page, most likely you’re interested in learning more about the types of gravel that are used on driveways in Arizona. If so you’ve come to the right place. But, before we dive into the various gravel types and what’s best for you, let’s define what gravel actually is. While most people think of gravel as a 2 inch or larger piece of rock, gravel is defined as any loose rock or stone that is larger than a grain of sand but smaller than rocks deemed to be cobble. Cobble or cobblestones get their name from cob, meaning a round lump.
Gravel driveways usually consist of 3 or more layers with larger stones on the bottom. These larger stones are generally 2 to 3 times the size of the gravel that makes up the top layer, which is usually more aesthetically pleasing than the base gravel. Not every type of stone works for all driveways. When it comes to choosing gravel for your driveway, there’s the rock base, crushed limestone, decomposed granite, crushed stone, and rock pebbles, dependent upon your application. To get a better understanding of your driveway gravel needs, contact us for a free on-site consultation.
How Is Gravel For Driveway Applied?
Most driveways that are made up of gravel have multiple layers. After the soil has been graded and made ready for gravel, the first layer consists of unstabilized gravel which is known as base gravel. It is spread to a depth of around 3 to 4 inches to aid with drainage. Another option is to use a base layer consisting of sand, dirt, and golf ball size stones. The middle layer usually consists of crushed gravel, and then the top layer of gravel consists of small decorative gravel which can have a stabilizer added to it to ensure that your driveway remains intact over time. If you’re at the stage where you need to resurface driveway and need a few loads of gravel give us a call.
What Gravel Does Your Driveway Require?
Driveway Gravel Types
Gravel can range in size from very tiny sand grains to larger rocks such as crushed stone. Gravel can be created by crushing any natural stone and the variations of color and stability. And, gravel driveways can be created with our without the use of rebar.
Construction Grade Gravel
If you need a temporary driveway, say one that’s created for the sole purpose of allowing access to a construction project you can usually get away with using larger gravel rocks and give less attention to base rock and aesthetically pleasing decomposed granite surface rock.
Quarry Process Stone
Most crushed stone goes through what’s called crusher runs in a quarry. These quarry process stones are a great choice for the top level of your driveway as they’re made up of small crushed stone and stone dust which settles between larger rocks and makes the driveway more stable.
Decomposed Granite Driveways
Choosing to use decomposed granite for the top layer of your driveway is a great choice. Granite, being an igneous rock is quite durable, and when used with a stabilizer will stay in place and allow water and smaller rocks and dust to pass through, therefore creating a longer-lasting driveway.
Using Decorative Gravel As A Driveway Application
Due to the various colors and textures of decorative gravel, it has various uses including graveling your driveway. But, you can also use decorative rock on walkways, in parks, surrounding flowerbeds, and to offset a larger rock constructed dry creak bed. Contact us to learn how we can help you with your landscape rock needs.
Not All Rock Is Suitable For Driveways
While there are many types of rock and natural stone, not all rock is created the same. And, as such not all rocks are suitable for any application. Pea Gravel is the rock that is most commonly used to finish a driveway, but it’s not the ideal type of rock for construction projects. Some rocks have a soft texture, some are harder as they are made from stone that has been compressed for possibly millions or billions of years. And then some rocks differently than others to pressure. So, to use a rock type that isn’t hard and crumbles under intense pressure would be a mistake. The construction industry has evolved over time to learn what specific rocks are best for various applications. For example, Basalt is regularly used for creating road pavement and concrete aggregates, whereas limestone, being a sedimentary rock, is used to make crushed stone because it crushes and dusts up easier.
Stone Dust For Driveways
Stone dust is very useful for patios where the tamping or packing stone is required, but stone dust isn’t an ideal choice for driveway applications because it doesn’t allow water to drain easily. Instead, choose crushed stone for driveways, as the dust from this rock tends to make the entire layer of rock more stable.
Using Clean Stone
Clean stone is an excellent choice for the top level of your driveway, as it is crushed stone that has been screened at the quarry so that a large portion of the dust that it once contained has been removed. And, while the dust that does remain in the clean stone will not cause a negative impact when minor compaction occurs.
Crushed Stone For Driveways
Crushed stone generally refers to stone that has been crushed that still has stone dust in it. Crushed stone is great as the base of a driveway where heavy compaction is necessary. Number 2 crushed stone is ideal for patios, driveways, and any construction project where the base needs to be erosion resistant and remain intact.
What’s the best gravel for your driveway?
When it comes to driveways in the desert of Arizona, choosing the right gravel is essential. The desert climate can be harsh, with high temperatures and limited rainfall. Therefore, it is important to select a gravel type that can withstand these conditions and provide durability for your driveway. Here, you’ll find a discussion surrounding the best gravel for driveways in Arizona, as well as considerations for gravel delivery and driveway rock.
One of the best gravel options for driveways in Arizona is crushed stone. Crushed stone is a versatile material that comes in various sizes and colors. It can be compacted to create a solid base for your driveway, ensuring stability and erosion resistance. Number 2 crushed stone is particularly ideal for patios, driveways, and other construction projects where a strong and intact base is necessary.
When it comes to gravel delivery, it is important to choose a reliable supplier. Art Barber Excavating is a reputable company that can provide high-quality gravel for your driveway. Our professional team can deliver the gravel directly to your location and even spread it for you, saving you time and effort.
In addition to serving a functional purpose, gravel can also enhance the aesthetics of your driveway. Consider using decorative gravel to add visual interest and complement your landscaping. This type of gravel can also be used for dry creek beds or to create a meandering pathway in your yard.
When planning your driveway, it is important to consider the size and stability of the gravel. Smaller gravel sizes, such as sand grains, may not provide sufficient traction for vehicles. On the other hand, larger rocks can be cumbersome to drive on. Strike a balance by choosing a gravel size that is suitable for both aesthetics and practicality.
In conclusion, selecting the best gravel for your driveway in Arizona is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics. Consider crushed stone as a durable option that can withstand the desert climate. Choose a reputable supplier like Art Barber Excavating for gravel delivery, and consider using decorative gravel to enhance the visual appeal of your driveway. By carefully considering these factors, you can create a beautiful and long-lasting gravel driveway in the desert of Arizona.
Art Barber Excavation has been a gravel supplier in Arizona, that specializes in offering an array of landscaping rocks tailored for the unique desert landscapes of homes and businesses in the Wickenburg region. We extend our expertise to driveways, providing a specialized selection of gravel, essential for enduring the harsh desert climate of Arizona. With soaring temperatures and scant rainfall, the durability of the chosen gravel becomes paramount. This discussion delves into identifying the most suitable gravel types for Arizona driveways, considering factors like climate resilience and maintenance needs. Additionally, it encompasses practical insights on gravel delivery options and essential tips for selecting the right driveway rock, ensuring that your driveway is not only functional but also complements the aesthetic of your desert landscape.
Smooth Versus Angled Gravel
The selection of gravel for driveways is a critical decision that impacts both the functionality and longevity of the surface. Angular gravel is often the preferred choice over rounded varieties for several key reasons. Angular gravels, with their distinct edges and uneven shapes, interlock more effectively when laid down. This interlocking property ensures that the gravel displaces less under the pressure of vehicular traffic, thereby forming a more stable and durable surface. The stability of angular gravel is further enhanced when used in conjunction with gravel retention rings. These rings act as a barrier, effectively containing the gravel and maintaining the integrity of the driveway’s structure. On the other hand, rounded gravel, such as marine-washed aggregates, is less suitable for driveways. Their smooth and uniform shape allows for more movement under weight, leading to ruts and an overall unstable surface. This can result in a driveway that is not only difficult to navigate but also requires frequent maintenance to redistribute the displaced gravel. Thus, for a robust and long-lasting driveway, angular gravel emerges as the superior choice.
Choice of Gravel Size
When it comes to choosing the ideal size of gravel for driveways, the most recommended and popular range falls between 1/2 inch and 7/8 inch. This size bracket balances aesthetics with functionality, making it a practical choice for most driveways. Gravel larger than 7/8 inches comes with certain risks; for instance, it can potentially cause damage by getting kicked up onto vehicles. Larger gravel can be uncomfortable and challenging to walk on, an important consideration for driveways that see a lot of foot traffic. However, the use of gravel retention rings can mitigate some of these issues by stabilizing the gravel and keeping it in place, thus enhancing the usability of the driveway. Within the 1/2 inch to 7/8 inch size range, the specific choice of gravel size largely depends on personal preference and the desired final appearance of the driveway. Some may prefer the finer look of the 1/2 inch gravel, while others might opt for the slightly bulkier appearance of 7/8 inch stones, each bringing a unique texture and feel to the driveway’s overall look. Ultimately, the decision on gravel size should align with the homeowner’s aesthetic goals and practical needs, ensuring that the driveway is not only visually pleasing but also functional and durable.
Front Yard Landscaping Ideas With Gravel
Landscaping With Decorative Gravel
Now that you know quite a bit about the various types of gravel that work great with driveway applications, let’s talk about ideas for landscaping your front yard with decorative gravel. Your front yard is the first thing people notice upon arriving at your home. And, since first impressions matter, you should take a proactive approach to create an aesthetically pleasing front yard design.
While large boulders and stones make great centerpieces, complimenting those eye-grabbing pieces with decorative landscaping gravel can make them pop even more. Another benefit of using gravel in your front yard landscaping design is the cost of maintenance is sharply decreased. And, when you replace water-hungry plants with low to no maintenance decorative landscape gravel, rocks that need no watering, you save yourself time and money.
Decorative gravel can enhance an otherwise dull driveway, compliment your dry creek bed, and also be compacted to flank pavers on a meandering path throughout your yard. Besides gravel’s utilitarian use on driveways, gravel can be used to deter erosion, compact patio bases, and garden decoration. Contact us to learn how we can help you with your landscaping rock needs.
