Driveways are an advantage to have on every property. Not only does it look aesthetically pleasing, but it also provides a smooth and level surface to park your car on, making it easier and more convenient for you.

This article will show you the full computation of gravel driveway installation costs in Ireland.

What is a gravel driveway?

A gravel driveway is a type of unpaved surface that is made up of small, loose rocks. It is usually used as an alternative to concrete or asphalt driveways.

Gravel driveways are very popular in rural areas because they are much cheaper to install than other types of driveways. However, they can be just as expensive to maintain and repair.

How much does a gravel driveway cost in Ireland?

The cost of a gravel driveway varies depending on the size and type of gravel you choose. The average cost of a typical gravel driveway ranges from €60 to €85 per square metre.

Moreover, the cost of a gravel driveway in Ireland will depend on a few factors, such as the size of the driveway, the type of gravel used, and the amount of labour required. Let’s take a deeper look at each factor below:

The size of the driveway.

The size of how big or small you want your driveway to be will affect the gravel driveway cost. If you want a larger driveway, then you will need more gravel and it will cost more. On the other hand, if you want a smaller driveway, then you won’t need as much gravel and it will cost less.

Type of gravel used.

There are many different types of gravel that can be used for driveways. The most common type of gravel used is called “crushed stone” or “crushed limestone”. This type of gravel is usually 3/4 inch to 1 inch in size and is generally used for driveways that have a light traffic load.

Another popular type of gravel used for driveways is called “pea gravel”. This type of gravel is smaller in size, usually about 1/4 inch to 3/8 inch. Pea gravel is often used for driveways that have a medium to the heavy traffic load.

The amount of labour required.

The amount of labour required will also affect the gravel driveway cost. If you need someone to help you install the driveway, then it will cost more. However, if you are able to do it yourself, then it will cost less.

As a general rule of thumb, the bigger the driveway, the more it will cost to install. This is because more gravel will be needed, and more labour will be required to spread it out evenly. The type of gravel used can also affect the price, with some types being more expensive than others.

To get a more accurate estimate of how much your gravel driveway will cost, it is best to consult with a professional contractor who can give you a tailored quote based on your specific needs and requirements.

Benefits of Having a Gravel Driveway

Now that we know how much a gravel driveway costs in Ireland, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of having one:

Aesthetically Pleasing

One of the best things about gravel driveways is that they look great. They can add a touch of elegance and class to any property, no matter what the size or type.

Cheaper to Install

Another great benefit of gravel driveways is that they are much cheaper to install than other types of driveways. This is because you don’t need to lay down any concrete or asphalt, which can be quite expensive.

Easy to Maintain

Gravel driveways are also very easy to maintain. All you need to do is regularly rake the gravel to keep it looking neat and tidy. You may also need to occasionally add more gravel to fill in any holes that have been created over time.

Drainage

Gravel driveways have excellent drainage properties. This is because the gravel allows water to quickly drain through it and into the ground, rather than pooling on the surface. This is particularly beneficial in areas that experience a lot of rainfall.

Versatile

Gravel driveways are also very versatile. They can be used on any type of property, no matter what the size or shape.

As you can see, there are many benefits to having a gravel driveway. If you are thinking about installing one, then be sure to get in touch with a professional contractor who can give you a tailored quote based on your specific needs and requirements.

Gravel Driveway Considerations

Before you install a gravel driveway, there are a few things you need to take into consideration:

1. The slope of the land. If the land is too steep, then it may not be suitable for a gravel driveway.
2. The soil type. The type of soil on your property will affect how well the gravel binds together. If the soil is too sandy, then it won’t bind well and the driveway may wash away over time.
3. The climate. If you live in an area that experiences a lot of rainfall or snowfall, then a gravel driveway may not be the best option as it could wash away easily.

Once you have considered these factors, you can then start planning your gravel driveway. Be sure to get in touch with a professional contractor who can advise you on the best type of gravel to use and how to lay it down properly.

Gravel Driveway Design Ideas

If you are looking for some inspiration for your gravel driveway, then check out these design ideas:

Circular Design

A circular gravel driveway is a great option if you have a small to medium-sized property. It will add a touch of elegance and class to your home and can be easily installed by a professional contractor.

Spiral Design

A spiral gravel driveway is a great option if you have a large property. It can be quite striking and will definitely make your home stand out from the rest. Again, it is best to consult with a professional before attempting to install this type of driveway.

Wavy Design

A wavy gravel driveway is a great way to add interest to your property. It can be quite challenging to install, so it is best to leave it to the professionals.

As you can see, there are plenty of design options to choose from when it comes to gravel driveways. Be sure to consult with a professional contractor before making your final decision.

How To Layout Gravel Driveway

Once you have decided on a design, the next step is to layout your gravel driveway. This is best done by a professional contractor who will be able to advise you on the best way to do it.

First, they will mark out the area where the driveway will go. Then, they will excavate the area to the required depth and width. Next, they will install a weed barrier to prevent weeds from growing through the gravel.

After that, they will start laying down the gravel. They will first spread a layer of sand over the area to help bind the gravel together. Then, they will use a shovel or tiller to evenly distribute the gravel over the area.

Finally, they will use a plate compactor to compact the gravel and ensure that it is level. Once the contractor is happy with the results, they will then apply a sealant to the driveway to protect it from the elements.

Gravel Driveway Maintenance Tips

Once you have installed your gravel driveway, there are a few things you need to do to keep it in good condition:

Rake the gravel regularly to keep it looking neat and tidy.

If there are trees or plants near your driveway, chances are their roots will grow under the gravel and lift it up. To prevent this from happening, regularly check for any roots that are starting to grow and remove them before they cause any damage.

If you live in an area that experiences a lot of rainfall or snowfall, then you may need to add more gravel to your driveway on a regular basis to maintain its drainage properties.

Fix potholes and divots as soon as they appear.

Potholes are a common problem with gravel driveways. They are caused by water pooling in the same spot over time and washing away the gravel. To fix them, simply fill them in with more gravel.

Do not use snow plows.

Snow plows are a big no-no when it comes to gravel driveways. They can damage the gravel and make it more difficult to remove in the future. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, then it is best to hire a professional snow removal company to clear your driveway for you.

Hire a professional driveway contractor for maintenance.

Although you can maintain your gravel driveway yourself, it is best to hire a professional contractor to do it for you. They will have the necessary equipment and expertise to properly maintain your driveway and keep it looking its best.

As you can see, there are a few things you need to do to maintain your gravel driveway. Be sure to follow these tips and your driveway will stay looking great for years to come!