How to Prepare a Gravel Driveway

A gravel driveway is one of the most cost effective and practical options for homeowners in the UK. It provides a durable surface that looks natural, is easy to maintain, and allows for excellent drainage. Unlike tarmac or concrete, gravel does not usually require planning permission because it is permeable, making it an environmentally friendly choice that helps reduce surface water run off. Many homeowners also like the versatility of gravel, which comes in a range of colours and sizes to complement both modern and traditional properties.

Initial considerations before starting work
Preparing a gravel driveway is not just about tipping stones onto the ground. It requires proper planning and preparation to ensure the surface lasts and remains usable. Before any work begins, measure the area carefully and think about how wide and long the driveway needs to be. Consider whether it will accommodate one or more vehicles and whether there is enough space for turning. Check if you need to create a new access point to the road, as this may require approval from your local council. Although most gravel driveways do not need planning permission, it is sensible to confirm requirements if you live in a conservation area or own a listed property.

Clearing and excavating the ground
The first stage of preparation involves removing the existing surface. Grass, weeds, old paving, or soil should be cleared so the ground can be dug to the right depth. Excavation is normally to a depth of around 200 to 250 millimetres, which allows space for both the sub base and the gravel layer. A mini digger can make this process easier for larger driveways, although smaller areas can be dug manually with spades and shovels. Once the ground has been excavated, it should be levelled and compacted to form a stable base.

Installing a weed control membrane
Weeds can quickly spoil the appearance of a gravel driveway if they are not managed from the start. To help prevent this, a geotextile membrane should be laid across the excavated area. This acts as a barrier to weeds while still allowing water to drain through. The membrane should overlap at the edges and be secured firmly in place so it does not shift during installation. Taking this step saves a great deal of maintenance in the long term and helps the gravel surface remain neat.

Adding a solid sub base
The sub base is one of the most important parts of preparing a gravel driveway. Without a strong foundation, gravel can quickly become uneven, with ruts forming where cars regularly pass. MOT Type 1 hardcore or crushed stone is commonly used for this layer. It should be spread evenly across the membrane to a depth of about 150 millimetres. Once spread, it must be compacted using a vibrating plate compactor until it is firm and level. This ensures the driveway can support the weight of vehicles without sinking. Poor preparation at this stage is one of the main reasons driveways fail, so it is worth spending time to get it right.

Considering edging and boundaries
One challenge with gravel is that it can spread outside the intended area if there is nothing to contain it. Installing edging prevents this and gives the driveway a neat and defined finish. Edging can be made from timber, brick, stone, or concrete kerbs depending on the look you want to achieve. It also protects flower beds, lawns, and pathways from stray stones. In practical terms, edging ensures that when vehicles move across the driveway, the gravel stays where it should.

Choosing the right gravel
Not all gravel is the same, and choosing the right type makes a significant difference. Angular stones are generally better than rounded pebbles because they lock together, creating a more stable surface. Common choices include golden gravel, granite, and limestone chippings, all of which provide good durability and attractive finishes. Gravel sizes between 14 and 20 millimetres are ideal for driveways, as they are large enough not to get stuck in tyres but small enough to provide a comfortable surface to walk on. Decorative options such as slate or marble chippings are also available, although these tend to be more expensive. Prices can range from £40 to over £100 per tonne depending on the stone chosen.

Spreading the top layer of gravel
Once the sub base and edging are complete, the gravel itself can be added. A depth of around 40 to 50 millimetres is usually recommended. This allows the stones to cover the surface effectively without becoming too deep, which can make walking or driving difficult. The gravel should be spread evenly across the surface and then raked level. It may take a few weeks of use for the gravel to settle fully, and additional raking can help distribute the stones evenly as they bed into place.

Ensuring good drainage
One of the main benefits of gravel is its natural permeability. Water can pass through easily, preventing puddles and reducing strain on local drainage systems. However, the soil beneath still needs to support good drainage. If you live in an area with heavy clay soil, water may not disperse quickly enough, which could cause problems. In such cases, additional drainage channels or soakaways may need to be installed alongside the driveway. Proper drainage ensures the driveway remains stable and prevents long term issues such as erosion or pooling water.

Maintenance tips after preparation
A gravel driveway is not completely maintenance free, but with the right preparation it can be relatively easy to look after. Over time, some stones may migrate to the edges or be carried onto the road, so raking them back into place helps keep the surface neat. Weeds may still appear occasionally, particularly around the edges, but these can be managed with weed killer or manual removal. Every few years it may be necessary to top up the gravel with a fresh layer to replace material lost through use. With these small efforts, a gravel driveway can look attractive and remain functional for decades.

Costs to prepare a gravel driveway
The cost of preparing a gravel driveway depends on several factors, including its size, the type of gravel chosen, and whether you hire professionals or complete the work yourself. For a standard two car driveway, materials alone may range from £1,000 to £2,000. Professional installation, which includes excavation, sub base preparation, edging, and laying the gravel, could bring the total cost to between £3,000 and £5,000. While hiring a contractor increases the expense, it also ensures the driveway is prepared correctly with the right equipment and expertise, reducing the risk of problems later.

Final thoughts
Preparing a gravel driveway is a job that requires careful planning, correct excavation, and proper layering of materials. By taking the time to create a strong sub base, install edging, and choose the right gravel, homeowners can achieve a driveway that is both attractive and durable. Although it requires occasional maintenance, gravel remains one of the most practical and affordable options in the UK. Whether you decide to carry out the work yourself or hire a professional, good preparation is the key to a long lasting and reliable driveway.