Jason Herring Landscape Design

Driveways & paths

Driveways & Paths

Aggregate Driveways

Driveways can be constructed of rigid surface materials such as block or stone paving, concrete products or some of the many sorts of pavers amongst many other choices. This page focuses on a traditional gravel or aggregate driveway done properly.

A good base to start is the key to the success of any driveway or path. The base for this driveway is a highly compacted layer of DTp 1 (a typical sub base to bond hard and spread any load upon it). This is then covered with a blinding off layer of limestone dust. This is again heavily compacted and provides a smooth but tough layer for the chosen aggregate to bed on. The aggregate will then bite into the compacted dust without sinking into it.

The advantages of an aggregate driveway or path should not be underrated:

The alkaline layer of compacted limestone dust acts as an excellent weed suppressant.

Surface water runs through the driveway. Drainage is rarely a problem.

Costs are lot lower than laying paving.

Sounds obvious, but gravel makes a noise when you walk on it. This is nice to hear but it's also a good noise deterrent for burglars.

There's a huge choice of aggregates available to get the colour and texture you're looking for.

No jet washing muck off it every Autumn or Spring (or whenever)

Any shape or size can be quickly covered.


 

The bed of compacted hard smooth limestone before gravel is added

The finished driveway