What Is the process for building your gravel drive?

Digging and Excavating

We start by excavating and digging the area where the driveway is to be built. We make sure that every project excavation is carried out to the exact required level. We pay particular attention to ensuring that the levels are carefully checked using either laser levels or strings. This step is critical in ensuring that uneven levels don’t result in inconsistencies in the finished driveway surface. An inconsistent surface will not only look poor but can also result in the failure of the driveway once the surface experiences traffic, So we only move onto the next stage when we are happy with the levels.

Building work on the driveway

Once we are happy with the levels, we move onto doing any building work that may be required for the drive. This work can include installation of blockwork, any edges (or edge restraints), work on installing any required manholes or drainage and any required steps to name a few. Any required features such as edging are embedded in sufficiently thick ballast to ensure that there is no movement of any surface later down the line. Edge restraints help support the finished gravel surface for stability. The haunch around the perimeter is primarily added for this support. Our professional workmanship and attention to detail helps ensure that any sinking or sagging of materials is prevented,

Laying Membrane

Before we lay the hard core base, we lay membrane on the levelled surface to ensure that there is no weed growth. We secure the membrane down by pinning to makes sure that it does not move.

Hard-core base

We move onto laying the hard core base over the membrane and level it. The granular hard core is compacted by using our machinery to ensure that we end up with a weed free and solid driveway base for the final finish. The surface is now ready to accept the final desired gravel finish of your choice

Laying the Gravel And finishing

The final desired gravel is now laid on top of the base to give the final finish, the finished surface is compacted with our machines to ensure that the end finish is solid. The final result is normally a beautiful driveway of your choice that enhances the kerb appeal of your home. We build our driveways so that you can use them for the coming future with the comfort that it has been installed by professional gravel driveway installers in Manchester. We pride ourselves in building driveway surfaces that are built to last.

Maintaining a Gravel Driveway

Regular maintenance plays a pivotal role in preserving the optimal condition of your gravel driveway. Essential maintenance tasks include raking the surface to even out the distribution of gravel, addressing any potholes promptly, and replenishing gravel as necessary. It is equally important to promptly address any drainage issues and prevent the accumulation of debris.

Advantages of Engaging a Professional Gravel Driveway Installation Company

While some homeowners may contemplate a DIY approach, enlisting the expertise of a professional gravel driveway installation company in Manchester brings forth numerous benefits. Professionals possess the requisite knowledge and equipment to execute the entire installation process efficiently. Here at Driveways manchester, we ensure meticulous site preparation, accurate grading, and optimal compaction, resulting in a driveway of superior quality and durability.

Enhancing Kerb Appeal with Landscaping

To further enhance the kerb appeal of your property, consider incorporating landscaping elements around your gravel driveway. Planting vibrant flowers, shrubs, or ornamental grasses along the edges can create an aesthetically pleasing border. The addition of well-placed lighting fixtures along the driveway can enhance safety and augment the visual allure, particularly during evening hours.

Comparison Of Gravel Driveways Against Other Materials

Here’s an analysis comparing the attributes of gravel driveways with other materials commonly used for driveways:

Gravel:

Expense: Gravel driveways generally offer a cost-effective option. Installation: Establishing a gravel driveway is a relatively straightforward process, involving the spreading and compaction of the gravel.
Maintenance: Maintaining a gravel driveway requires moderate effort. Regular grading and replenishment of the gravel might be necessary.
Durability: Gravel driveways possess a moderate level of durability and can endure average usage.
Visual Appeal: The appearance of gravel driveways can vary depending on the type of gravel employed.

Asphalt:

Expense: Asphalt driveways fall within the mid-range in terms of cost.
Installation: Installing an asphalt driveway necessitates the use of specialized equipment and expertise.
Maintenance: Maintaining asphalt driveways involves minimal requirements. Periodic sealing and occasional repairs might be needed.
Durability: Asphalt driveways are highly durable, capable of withstanding heavy usage and diverse weather conditions.
Visual Appeal: Asphalt driveways present a smooth and uniform surface.

Concrete:

Expense: Concrete driveways are classified as high-cost options. Installation: Installing a concrete driveway is a complex process that demands professional expertise.
Maintenance: Concrete driveways have low maintenance needs, typically involving periodic sealing and repairing of cracks.
Durability: Concrete driveways are renowned for their exceptional durability, as they are long-lasting and robust.
Visual Appeal: Concrete driveways provide a sleek and polished appearance.

Paving Flags/ Slabs:

Expense: Paving flags driveways generally fall into the higher cost category.
Installation: Establishing a paver driveway is intricate, requiring meticulous placement and leveling of individual pavers.~
Maintenance: Maintaining paver driveways has minimal demands. Individual pavers can be replaced as required.
Durability: Paver driveways exhibit excellent durability and can withstand heavy loads.
Visual Appeal: Paver driveways offer a wide range of styles and patterns, enhancing their overall aesthetic appeal.

Block Paving:

Expense: Brick driveways are considered to be in the higher cost range.
Installation: Installing a brick driveway is a complex undertaking, involving precise laying and jointing of individual bricks.
Maintenance: Brick driveways have minimal maintenance requirements. Individual bricks can be replaced when necessary.
Durability: Brick driveways are highly durable, resistant to wear and weathering.
Visual Appeal: Brick driveways possess a classic and timeless appearance.

It’s important to note that the above provides a general overview, and actual costs, installation procedures, maintenance requirements, durability, and aesthetics may vary depending on factors such as location, material quality, and specific installation techniques employed.