Pros
- Budget friendly: Gravel is a low cost option compared to other types of driveway finishes, especially if you have a large area to cover.
- Easy to maintain: Gravel driveways require very little maintenance. Replenishing the surface gravel and picking out any weeds should be enough to keep it looking well.
- Quick installation: Laying the gravel in your driveway is a relatively quick process for your convenience.
- It’s permeable: unlike some driveway finishes, gravel is permeable meaning water won’t stagnate and affect the quality of your driveway.
- Long-lasting: A high-quality gravel driveway, that is properly installed and cared for can last a lifetime.
- Develop ruts and holes: If you use your driveway a lot, over time, unsightly ruts and holes can appear in the gravel, which will need to be filled in.
- Weed growth: Whilst a gravel driveway is pretty easy to maintain, weeds can be quite prolific. You need to make sure you have a good weed killer and the patience to constantly be on weed duty!
- Can be dusty and dirty: Unlike a smooth driveway such as concrete or asphalt, gravel can be quite dirty and throw up a lot of dust which can get on your car, not to mention in the air you breathe.
- Not great in extreme weather conditions: Trying to remove snow or ice from a gravel driveway can be extremely difficult and time consuming. You have to get the salt and sand out to dissolve the ice and give you grip on your tires.
- Limited with colours and styles: Whilst gravel can complement many different kinds of homes, there aren’t very many different colours, textures and patterns of gravel to choose from.