Gravel is typically graded by size, and most driveways use 3 different types of gravel that are put down in layers to create a solid foundation and ensure proper drainage. Another reason, the stones come in an array of colors including tan, blue, white, brown, and rust. That said, your new dilemma is determining what type of gravel is right for your home. A paved driveway could be lined with any size driveway stone – from small pebbles to larger river rocks. You can build a gravel driveway that will cost less than a paved driveway but last just as long. The right DIY driveway pavers will eliminate all of these problems at once. However, gravel is an incredibly durable rock that creates a strong foundation for your driveway. Another factor to consider is the amount of very small granular material, called "fines," in the gravel. So, if you are willing to keep up with your driveway, then purchasing gravel is the way to go! This property in Sydney's Freshwater was built by Those Architects, with landscaping by Terry Boyle. Gravel or loose fill driveways will need to be lined with a larger, heavier material in order to keep the stones in place while looking beautiful. As well as toning in beautifully with the sandstone cladding, the gravel makes a comforting crunchy sound on arrival. For driveways, not every type of gravel is suitable, but there is still quite the selection of gravel to choose from; this includes the popular flint and granite varieties of gravel. Keep in mind that for the novice do-it-yourselfer, there are certain mistakes you will need to avoid, so consider the following as you plan and construct your own gravel driveway. If you don't mind the extra maintenance required, you’ll find that gravel is a very effective material. Stone age A well-laid gravel driveway could add thousands to your home's resale value. Gravel driveways are relatively inexpensive and easy to install as a DIY project. This can help to prevent runoff and minimize the risk of flooding. A gravel driveway is a good place to keep your car off of mud. Rain and snow are absorbed into the ground beneath the gravel. Gravel is available in different colours, and importantly, different sizes. In general, driveway gravel should be relatively large, between about 3/8 and 3/4 inch in diameter, as compared to the gravel used for footpaths, which is typically 1/4 to 3/8 inch in diameter. Stabilized Gravel is the Best Driveway Material Unstabilized gravel tends to migrate and become pulverized, which leads to bare spots, ruts, dust, erosion, and more. Some people value drainage properties, others value aesthetics such as size and colour, and other factors such as cost and durability are added to the mix too – so let’s take a look at the best types of driveway gravel that best suit your needs. A gravel driveway also separates yard and parking areas. Many other projects eating up $$$$. So, with either blacktop or concrete driveway in mind for the future, (leaning towards blacktop) what kind of gravel should I use for a 180' fairly steep driveway? When looking for the best gravel for driveways, it’s important to remember that everyone’s requirements are different. It depends on personal preferences and the size and scope of the driveway and/or property. Gravel driveways last longer than paved driveways and are more environmentally friendly. Self-binding gravel (a type of gravel that is SuDs-compliant) keeps and even adds to the fines, in order to capitalise and improve on the gravel’s self-binding properties. The reason, pea gravel is a very smooth, rounded surface that is easy to drive and walk on. Pea Gravel: Pea gravel has become very popular over the past few years as a crushed stone driveway material.