Discover the 7 key benefits that a gravel driveway can provide for homes and properties in Mansfield and Northeast Ohio.
Gravel driveways are popular among business owners and homeowners because they are long-lasting, inexpensive, and low maintenance. A gravel driveway will withstand heavy weight, so parking large vehicles or farm equipment will not be a problem.
The porous nature of gravel allows rainwater to drain through the driveway surface, reducing stormwater runoff. A gravel driveway greatly reduces surface ponding, which can occur after a thunderstorm.
Gravel driveways have low maintenance requirements, are less expensive to repair, and can be used immediately after installation. A gravel driveway will last for years and is the most cost-effective option.
The following are the seven benefits of having a gravel driveway:
1. Gravel Driveways Are Very Economical
Gravel is one of the most cost-effective materials on the market, so installing a gravel driveway is the most cost-effective option.
A gravel driveway typically costs between $1 per square foot on the low and $3 per square foot on the high end. At $3 per square foot, a higher-end gravel driveway is still less expensive than any solid surface driveway.
The cost of installing a gravel driveway is affected by several factors. One is the type of gravel used (yes, there are nice options), the distance the gravel must be trucked in, and the width of your driveway.
The amount of grading, site preparation required, and the depth of gravel that will be optimal for your needs will all influence the cost.
You will notice additional benefits when you compare a gravel driveway to a paved one. It is possible to replenish your gravel driveway regularly to keep it looking nice. Seasonal freeze-thaw cycles will not harm your gravel driveway as much as they will a concrete or asphalt driveway.
Wide temperature swings frequently cause cracking and settling issues in solid surface driveways. Damage to an asphalt or concrete driveway is difficult to repair and will eventually require replacement, which will be an “ouch” for your wallet.
2. Porosity
Gravel is porous compared to asphalt, concrete, or solid stone. It is beneficial for two reasons:
- There is less runoff. Gravel moderates storm runoff on gentle slopes. It keeps debris off public streets and sidewalks, leaves, and other clog-forming materials out of storm drains and surface water pollution to a minimum.
In other words, it benefits both your local infrastructure and the environment.
- Less ruminating. Gravel helps to reduce surface ponding. Surface ponding exacerbates the destructive effects of the freeze-thaw cycle in cold weather, reducing the useful lifespan of concrete driveways.
Ponded water will inevitably find its way into cracks and weak points if your driveway runs along or near your home’s foundation, potentially causing structural issues down the road.
It was the single most motivating factor for our gravel driveway project: almost every time it rained, we noticed water slowly draining into the cracks between our driveway and foundation apron.
Dunn Excavation in Mansfield, as an excavation contractor, ensures that your driveway is properly graded and leveled before laying out the gravel. Hence, your mornings are as smooth as your new gravel driveway. Through our services, we strive to make each person’s life better.
Dunn Excavation in Mansfield, OH, offers professional land clearing, water line services, stock ponds, demolition, tank clean-out, and gravel pads. Pick up the phone and call Dunn Excavation if you have any questions!
3. Easy to Maintain
Gravel requires little upkeep. It is essentially inert, responds well to freezing and thawing, and is simple to repair without the assistance of a professional.
On the other hand, asphalt needs to be resealed every three to five years, depending on the climate and intensity of use. On average, that’s a $400 investment per job, with higher costs for longer driveways. It’s also a messy job that should be left to the professionals.
Dunn Excavation is a Mansfield, OH, excavation company that can help you install a new gravel driveway! We can solve your mud problem regardless of how long or short your driveway is!
We want to make your job as a Mansfield excavating contractor easier! We appreciate our clients and would be honored to make a significant difference in our customers’ lives.
Dunn Excavation looks forward to collaborating with you to create the driveway you desire and require.
4. Long Life Expectancy
In theory, gravel lasts forever. In practice, it washes away or subsides sufficiently to necessitate periodic resurfacing.
On the other hand, a level, well-maintained gravel driveway can last for decades without requiring a complete overhaul. When the time comes, it will be much less expensive.
As an excavation contractor, Dunn Excavation in Mansfield strives to provide the best excavation services in Mansfield and the surrounding areas. We can handle anything, commercial or residential, and deliver excellent results! Call us today for a free estimate.
5. Aesthetic Care
Gravel’s aesthetic is more utilitarian than arresting, which isn’t always bad. Gravel blends well with various home styles, exterior colors, landscaping elements, and other native landscapes to formal gardens, depending on the color and texture.
Dunn Excavation in Mansfield employs highly skilled and professional workers who will complete high-quality work to ensure you are completely satisfied with your project.
Dunn Excavation cares deeply about our clients and will make all efforts to ensure your complete satisfaction.
We are confident that Dunn Excavation will provide the best service to every customer.
6. Easy installation with the help of your contractor
With our delivery service, you can either buy gravel in bulk bags and have them collected or delivered by us, or you can deliver it as a loose, tipped load.
If you order this as a loose-tipped load, we can tip the gravel directly onto your driveway if ready.
Dunn Excavation in Mansfield provides services that meet customers’ needs who want a beautiful driveway. With our skilled staff, you won’t have to worry about a sloppy gravel installation on your driveway.
7. Can notify you of any visitors
While we’d like to believe that the only people we meet on our drives are harmless and friendly, this isn’t always the case.
When you drive up to or walk across a gravel drive, it makes a soft crunching sound. Knowing when your guests arrive is convenient but can also indicate any uninvited guests. Because of the noise it makes, it also serves as a low-cost deterrent to any passing opportunists!
What to Look for in Gravel Driveway Contractors
A gravel driveway is more difficult to construct than you might think. A properly installed gravel driveway necessitates a proper base-rock foundation that is strategically slanted to allow for optimal water runoff.
The gravel driveway should have at least three stone layers. Large stones are used first, then medium, and finally, small stones on top. Hardtop forms on the surface as smaller gravel particles settle into crevices.
A gravel driveway contractor will know how to layer your driveway properly. Ditches or trenches channel water away from the gravel while protecting it.
Gravel driveway contractors with experience will know what gravel to use for your property and design preferences. They will have the knowledge and experience to design a gravel driveway that will withstand daily use and weather effects.
If you were to install a gravel driveway yourself, you would have to factor in the costs of renting earthmoving equipment, purchasing additional tools, transporting gravel, and the gravel itself.
The only real money you’d save doing it yourself is in labor costs.
Do you know how to design a gravel driveway meticulously?
Dunn Excavation in Mansfield will provide a long-lasting gravel driveway at an affordable price, saving you the headaches of a complicated DIY project.
Why Should You Hire Dunn Excavation in Mansfield for Gravel Driveway Installation?
Dunn Excavation in Mansfield’s gravel driveway contractors have been installing gravel driveways for many years and are the best in the business. With their expertise, you will have a new gravel driveway installation that is aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting, and cost-effective.
Dunn Excavation strives to be Mansfield’s best excavation company. We strive to deliver our clients the highest quality excavation services possible by paying close attention to detail and using the best materials available.
Do you want to use our services or have any questions? Call us at (567) 320-1383 or send us an email at info@dunnexcavationmansfield.com.