The design of a property’s exterior should never be overlooked, as the appearance of this space will be the difference between adding or losing value on it. A sweeping gravel driveway will add value to a home, by as much as 5-10% according to experts, depending on the surface finish and quality of installation.
Gravel driveways are a sought-after surface finishing due to their excellent durability and attractiveness to potential buyers. Let’s explore the pros and cons of installing a gravel driveway.
Weighing up the pros and cons of a gravel driveway
Gravel has a long association with historic and prestigious homes, making it the natural surface finish for anyone wanting to create a grand entrance. The versatility of gravel means it complements properties of all styles, from the rustic country cottage to the modern development and everything in between. The many and varied sizes and colours of gravel provide a huge number of options to achieve the vision that homeowners and developers have for their properties.
With the environment high on the development agenda, gravel also fulfils SuDS regulations, as stormwater can permeate into the ground below, making it the ideal surface finish for properties built in high-risk flood areas or areas subject to heavy rainfall. In addition, gravel does not require any planning permission to be granted, so there is no need to wait to begin the desired work.
While there are many benefits to a gravel driveway, some are put off by this driveway surface finish for the problems that are commonly associated with it. The most common criticism of gravel is its tendency to migrate and create displeasing sparse patches. The occurrence of bare patches requires gravel to be regularly topped up, never mind the messy, unkempt appearance it leaves.
Rutting and sinking are also associated with this finish, the uneven surface makes it difficult to push bins, buggies or even ride bikes. These drawbacks may seem unappealing but they are all easily solved with Gravelrings gravel retention grid system.
A gravel driveway is defined by the details
To achieve a gravel driveway built to last, Gravelrings gravel retention grids are a must. Laid beneath the gravel, Gravelrings gravel mats are a simple but effective way of ensuring gravel does not migrate, as the closed-cell structure of the panels locks the gravel in place, maintaining consistent coverage even with frequent use. Gravel is commonly thought to be an unsuitable surface finish for slopes but this is where Gravelrings gravel retention grid system excels, as the innovative ring design means gravel is held in place, preventing it from shifting down the slope.
The stability of Gravelrings gravel retention grids allows bins, buggies and bikes to glide across the surface with ease, making this system practical for everyday use. Anchored into the ground, the mesh-backed base prevents gravel from slipping underneath and lifting the panels, meaning the gravel driveway remains even.
Gravel driveway maintenance requirements
With Gravelrings gravel retention grids in place, maintenance is kept to a minimum. By preventing gravel migration there is little to no need to sweep stray gravel back into place or to have to top up the gravel from time to time. Additionally, the mesh-backed base allows free-flow of air throughout the system, preventing the build-up of silts and fines that encourage unsightly weed growth. To further reduce maintenance requirements, Graveledge aluminium edging can be laid around the perimeter to prevent stone from slipping out the sides and spreading into neighbouring plant beds or lawns.
Achieve the perfect gravel driveway with the Beauxfort Gravelrings Gravel Grid System. Check out our website www.beauxfort.com for more information about the Beauxfort landscape systems, design inspiration and to request a free sample, or talk to our friendly team about your project by contacting us on 0330 055 2599 or info@beauxfort.com.
