The most popular driveway paving options are asphalt, concrete, and gravel. Of these three materials, gravel is sometimes overlooked because it doesn’t create the same kind of rigid surface as the other two. However, this budget-friendly option offers several advantages that should put it at the top of your list, including the following.

Why Should You Make the Driveway Out of Gravel?

1. Simple Installation and Maintenance

At its most basic, a gravel driveway is simply a thick layer of gravel spread over the area you want to pave. Smoothing the underlying soil helps the surface stay flat, and there are edging options and grid systems that can help the stones stay in place longer, but all of these options are still simpler and more convenient to install than other paving materials, lowering the labor costs. 

2. Wide Range of Looks

Natural multicolored gravel is not the only option for your driveway. You can use crushed stone of any color or even alternate hues and create attractive patterns. The stones can be sharp and freshly crushed, somewhat worn, or even rounded river stone, and they can be any size as well. You can design a beautiful driveway to fit any style of architecture and landscaping.

3. No Water Runoff

On a flatly paved driveway, sprinklers and rainwater often leave large puddles behind. The water runs off the edges, eroding the soil around it, or pools in the middle where it is unattractive and can create a slipping hazard. A gravel drive, on the other hand, simply lets the rainwater flow through between the stones and soak into the ground underneath.

For quality gravel and help installing it, choose Canyon Rock Products in Scio, OR. Serving Linn County for almost 20 years, this locally owned and operated company provides locally quarried rock products on a budget, ranging from ¾ of an inch to 8 inches. They also offer excavation and paving. Call (503) 769-2584 or visit their website to get started.