Gravel driveways are relatively simple to install and add great country character to those properties that put them in place. However, no matter how hard you work to protect them, heavy storms and other natural events will likely leave you to deal with potholes, depletion, erosion, and more. Don’t let these drawbacks keep you from installing gravel at your property.
Landowners everywhere understand that achieving the perfect landscape requires hard work and dedication. They also know that with this hard work and dedication comes amazing results. Here are some tips to consider when it comes time to repair your gravel driveway and get it looking good as new.
Smooth the Driveway
Before all else, you need to first make sure the surface has been made completely smooth. A land plane or box blade (with scarifiers) can be used, as they break up the surface to a universal depth. If you’re working on repairing a pothole in your gravel driveway, grind the surface down to the bottom of the hole, but be sure to not go so deep that you dig into the foundation. If material the size of your fist is being churned up, you’ve likely gone too deep.
Rework the Surface
After the driveway has been made smooth, it’s time to determine what size gravel you want to apply. 1½-2½” crushed gravel is best-suited for a surface that’s soft and muddy on occasion. Laying down this type of gravel will ensure the bottom layer drains and stabilizes the entire surface. ¾-inch minus gravel is a good option to lay on top of the 1½-2½” layer, as it includes pieces that are as small as powder, which can be packed down to provide stability and firmness on the surface.
Smooth the New Surface
With your newly repaired surface in place, it’s now time to fine-tune it. A rear blade is a great piece of equipment for this task, as it’s attached to a tractor and floats along the ground, leaving behind a solid and firm surface. As always, be sure to read the Operator’s Manual before operating John Deere equipment.
For more insight into how to repair and maintain your gravel driveway, watch the video below!
Visit this page or contact your local John Deere dealer for more information about the equipment needed to properly repair your gravel driveway.
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