Dirt driveway building?

[gsganzer]

Based on your soil type, consider the need for soil stabilizing fabric under any gravel you put down. It's cheap insurance to help it stand up to wet conditions better. I'm on black clay and I'm putting it down under a new parking area.

 

[ovrszd]

This subject is very dependent on location and soil type. In discussions of this type that information should be in the initial request for advice. Along with pics if available and/or a good description of drainage issues. Until most of this information is known it's pretty hard to give useable advice.

My basis for these comments is that I run a road grader and maintain 50 miles of gravel roads. I've also built several miles of roadway. There's also a lot of valuable experience here on TBN to help you make the right choice for your conditions.

 

[fried1765]

This subject is very dependent on location and soil type. In discussions of this type that information should be in the initial request for advice. Along with pics if available and/or a good description of drainage issues. Until most of this information is known it's pretty hard to give useable advice.

My basis for these comments is that I run a road grader and maintain 50 miles of gravel roads. I've also built several miles of roadway. There's also a lot of valuable experience here on TBN to help you make the right choice for your conditions.

Good information!
One of my degrees is in Civil/Highway Eng.
For your driveway, I would suggest on site advice, from a seasoned professional (such as ovrszd) in your area.

 

[atsah]

A grader operator knows the score on a non paved roadway, we have many here and they know what there doing with dirt roads.. And they know how to push frozen banks back just as well..

 

[airbiscuit]

A grader operator knows the score on a non paved roadway, we have many here and they know what there doing with dirt roads.. And they know how to push frozen banks back just as well..

:drink:

If you are going to have to dig into sod and roots, you might want to get a tooth bar for your loader. It makes a big difference in being able to penetrate that, and helps tear it apart when back dragging. Why not just drive on the mowed surface? Would it be too slippery, or do you need to level a sidehill grade? No matter what, be sure it drains well. Having a crown, ditching or swales will help with durability and drivebility.

 

[ovrszd]

I've built several personal driveways with the grader too. My board promotes that in support of the taxpayers that make it possible.

Talk to your local guy.

 

[airbiscuit]

 

[airbiscuit]

 

[ruffdog]

 

[Drstrangeglove]

I built my drive with a Ford backhoe to haul base dirt in and dig stumps. I did the spreading with my 30hp tractor and box blade.

Now, I have a M5 and hydraulic grader blade to do maintenance.