Gravel
Why Go For Gravel?
Loose gravel driveways in Sussex and Surrey are a popular choice for residents – and for good reason. A wonderful, cost effective alternative to tarmac, resin, or block paving, a gravel driveway creates a great looking usable surface for vehicles. Gravel is long lasting and provides great drainage, which is a big plus knowing English weather! On top of this, it is also really quick to install. Taking around 40% of the time it takes to install a tarmac drive, the SGS team usually install most residential gravel driveways in 1-2 days. Even with the quick turnover time, our team can help make your new gravel area really stand out, with a variety of different edging options as well as a range of gravel products to choose from. Got a specific vision in mind, or feeling a bit vague about how you’d like your gravel driveway to look? We will happily spend time before the project begins, discussing your options with you.
If you’d like to find out more then contact our team today for advice and a no obligation quote.
Reasons to use SGS Surfacing:
If you’re looking for a professional team to carry out any of our residential or commercial services, then call SGS Surfacing today on 01403 581782 or email [email protected]
Benefits of Gravel Driveways
Gravel driveways are one of the most affordable options for your home. Though a lower cost than other driveway options, you’ll still be investing in a driveway that will last your property a long time and require minimal maintenance.
You won’t have to worry about constant upkeep, as gravel driveways are a low maintenance choice for your home. Once we’ve installed the driveway, patio, or path, all you need to do is occasionally rake the surface to ensure it stays level. Installing the gravel with the inclusion of a gravel grid will keep movement of the stones to a minimum, so this shouldn’t be too much of an issue, even with regular use. Topping up the driveway with a thin layer of fresh gravel may be necessary from time to time, but can be easily done at home hassle free, without the need to pay for a specialist.
The loose nature of the gravel is also one of the great advantages of a gravel driveway as it allows water to drain freely through the gaps. It is the ideal driveway for the UK, or any area that experiences heavy rainfall or is close to sea level. Living in or around Brighton & Hove? Your home might just be best served by a gravel driveway.
If you are looking to update your driveway in a hurry, loose gravel is a great option that can be installed very quickly in comparison to tarmac or resin-bound gravel.
Materials & Designs
Driveways don’t have to be boring! Gravel varies in size, shape and colour. We have a variety of different materials for you to choose from. From finer gravel to larger stones, pebbles and cobbles in cool or warm tones, we’ll help find the right material for your property. Whatever gravel you decide to go for, complement it with contrasting edges laid in a choice of granite, brick, concrete or stone. In this way you can curate a gravel driveway, path, or patio space that suits the overall look of your home.
We usually install the gravel over a driveway gravel grid, which helps keep it all in place and minimise migration. The grid, often made of a recycled plastic material, keeps the gravel secure and helps create a permeable drainage system for driveways and parking surfaces. The SGS Surfacing team will work with you and your requests, to source the right materials and colours to suit your property.
Gravel Driveways: Frequently Asked Questions
The short answer to how long a loose gravel driveway lasts, is forever. Properly maintained in the right conditions, your gravel driveway should last your property a lifetime and beyond.
Learning how to refresh and maintain your gravel driveway is an easy process that anyone can do at home. Upkeep is as simple as raking the gravel to return irregular patches back to an even surface. To fully refresh, begin by walking your driveway with a rake, levelling uneven patches and neatening up with any adjustments you feel necessary. It is then a case of laying down the fresh gravel, and ensuring that this sits evenly over the existing layer. Refreshing your loose gravel driveway is also a job the SGS team are happy to tackle quickly and efficiently. However, this is not a process you should have to undergo often. Get in touch to learn more.
For the gravel grid which acts as a foundation to lay your gravel on a fully SuDS & DIN 1072 Compliant plastic is best. Of course, a recycled plastic material is also preferable, and the most eco friendly way to construct your drive. The shape and size of the gravel you use is really up to you, your aesthetic desires and budget. Finer gravel may be more susceptible to migration and therefore may require more upkeep, while larger stones may be more sturdy and steadfast. As a general rule, medium-sized gravel is ideal for paths or driveways. The stones need to be comfortable to walk on with minimal movement – angular gravel won’t displace easily. Contact our team to learn more.
Request Your FREE No Obligation Estimate
If you are considering a gravel driveway or something similar at your home or place of business, then contact us via our form to arrange a visit.