How to Install a Crushed Stone Driveway
A crushed stone driveway is one of many options to consider when installing a new driveway. Benefits of installing a crushed stone driveway are lack of maintenance and ease of care, plus these driveways provide an excellent drainage system. Crushed stones are available in a wide range of colors, making them fit into many landscaping designs. The drawbacks are that snow removal is difficult, the drive may easily develop potholes and the surface is rough.
Measure and mark the area of the driveway. Hammer stakes into the ground to mark the boundaries. Tie a string from stake to stake to form an elevated guideline.
- A crushed stone driveway is one of many options to consider when installing a new driveway.
Dig down 8 inches within the guidelines.
Tamp the base of the excavated area with a gas-powered or hand-held tamper. Compact the soil tightly to provide a solid base for the crushed stone.
Pour 2 inches of sand over the base of the excavated area. Spread the sand evenly with the back of a metal rake to make it reasonably level.
Pour 5 inches of medium-grade crushed stone over the top of the sand. Drag a long piece of lumber over the crushed stone to level high spots and fill in depressions or holes.
- Dig down 8 inches within the guidelines.
- Pour 2 inches of sand over the base of the excavated area.
Pour 1 inch of a finer grade crushed stone to fill in gaps between stones.
Wet the driveway, thoroughly soaking it with a garden hose, or wait for a heavy, soaking rainfall. The water helps to move stone into air pockets and tighten the structure.
Tamp the surface of the driveway. Add more fine-grade crushed stone as necessary after compacting to build the driveway up to the desired height.
Tip
Adding more fine-grade crushed stone after two to three months and several rainfalls is usually necessary and not uncommon as the driveway continues to settle.
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Writer Bio
Sal Marco began writing professionally in 2009. He has written many online home improvement articles based on his more than 20 years of experience in the home improvement and building industries. He has worked as both part of a team and as a site supervisor. Marco has a Bachelor of Science in management science from Kean University.
