If you have a gravel driveway, over time it can become unlevel. Once this happens, it is important that you level it. Below is information on how this is done, as well as reasons why it is important that you do this.
Level Gravel Driveway
You can level the gravel driveway yourself if you want to save money. The best way to do this is to purchase a tow-behind gravel leveling grader which can be attached to the back of a lawn tractor, ATV, or truck. You do have to make sure you go deep enough into the gravel to loosen up gravel. Over time the gravel will stick together due to mud, a lot of rain, etc.
Once you get the level grader attached, drive the vehicle you are using slowly over the driveway starting at the top. You will have to make more than one pass each way to get the gravel loose. Once this is done go back over the driveway again a couple of times until it is even and level.
If you see potholes in the gravel as you are grading stop and fill these in with rock before you continue. If you do not, these potholes will only get bigger and cause you problems later. As you work keep an eye on the gravel to ensure you sweep it back in on the driveway. The center of the gravel driveway should be higher than the rest to allow for water drainage when it rains.
Reasons To Level Gravel Driveway
There are many reasons why it is important that you level your gravel driveway. If you plan to install a paved or concrete driveway in the future, level gravel will provide a good base for the driveway. If the gravel is already level then this will speed up the process of installing the new driveway, which can also save money on labor charges.
Having a level driveway also makes it look much nicer. It will help hold the gravel in place, so it does not get on your lawn or surrounding areas. You also won't have to worry about water running off the driveway into your yard causing you problems.
If you do not have the experience, you can hire a professional company to level your gravel driveway for you. They will ensure it is done properly and the crown is large enough to prevent drainage problems.
