Gravel Driveways
¾" Minus Crushed Basalt - Our Most Popular Driveway Gravel!
Click here to see our complete line of gravel
products.
What types of gravel should I use on my
driveway?...
When
deciding on gravel for your driveway, the most important fact to know is whether
you need a crushed rock with a minus or a crushed rock that is clean.
Gravel that has a minus after its name will contain small fines from the
crushing process that will compress between the bigger rock to help it to pack
down tighter. For example if a product is ‘¾” minus’, this means it will
have every size fragment from fines up to ¾”. Any gravel you see that does
not have the word minus after it will be a clean rock. This means that it
is strictly the sized rock that is in its name. It will not have the fines
in it, which means it will not pack down tightly.
When
working with a new driveway it is typical to start with a clean rock.
This will keep the mud down and give your driveway good drainage as well as
create a firm base so that you can top it with a minus (see below).
If
you have a muddy driveway you need to get a clean rock down to hold that
mud back, give you good drainage and allow you to top with a minus (see below)
without adding to your mud problem. When deciding on the size you need to think
about how deep your mud is and get a rock that is big enough it won’t sink and
disappear into the mud. The 1½
-¾" crushed basalt
is commonly used in slightly muddy areas. In extremely muddy situations it may be necessary to
start with a larger clean crushed rock (for example a
2-4" crushed basalt or
4-8" crushed basalt), then put in a smaller clean crushed
rock (such as 1½-2½
crushed basalt or
1½
-¾" crushed basalt) before adding a minus.
When
topping a driveway that is well established and does not have a drainage
or mud problem it is typical to use a rock with a minus. This will allow it to
pack down so that it will be stable. You generally do not want to use a clean
rock for these areas because when you are driving on it, the rock will shift out
from under the tires causing ruts and losing your gravel quicker. The most
commonly used is ¾” minus basalt,
though there are several other options as well (click
here for more choices).
If you are dealing with
water issues and potholes, check out our article: "I have
potholes... Now what?" and our information on grading
and driveway repair.
As
with any product we advise that you come to our yard and look at them, as there
are many different sizes and colors to choose from. You can begin by checking
out our selection of crushed rock on the website,
then call or come in when you are ready to order. Use the contact form below if
you have any questions or need further assistance.
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