To Add Gravel or not to Add Gravel

[Currmudgeon]

I would tend to concur with the recommendations for geofabric. If the stone is being pounded into the subgrade because it is mushy, the fabric will do a lot ot prevent that. Use a crushed stone with good gradation. Something that satisfies your state DOT specifications is usually best.

I'd avoid pea gravel, as it never compacts. It tends to be scattered by traffic and wind up in your grass. I'd use a crushed road stone.

 

[DiskDoctr]

JayJ,

I've done this over the years and the best (and cheapest) method I've found is simply to add "2B Modified" gravel. This is standard 2B gravel with dust in it.

After a few rains and traffic, it will pack really solid "like concrete" we say, although not quite.

Cheap and easy to spread, reduces the gravel sinkage, and you can easily top it later with whatever you want.

Don't bother digging it up, this just loosens the base you are trying to build over the years. Ends up costing more in the long run over the few loads of gravel you saved.

If you're tearing it all up and starting over... maybe fabric, but we've had luck with what I've mentioned. Occassionally get grasses and weeds, but a little hand picking or Roundup is very easy to do.

Best thing is asphalt (pavement) or concrete, but that's lots of $$ for 1/4 mile /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

Good luck.

-JC