How to Repair a Gravel Driveway

A gravel driveway is a less expensive alternative to asphalt or concrete. Because gravel is not a permanent structure, it is more susceptible to changing weather conditions. Freezing and thawing cause areas of the driveway to sink over time, and heavy rains wash away gravel. A gravel driveway will need several repairs over its lifetime. Inspect your driveway every spring to see if the winter weather has caused bare areas or sink holes to appear.

Things You'll Need

• Rake
• Shovel
• Dirt
• Vehicle
• Gravel

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Rake or shovel gravel from the area of a sink hole to expose the dirt underneath.

   • 2

     Fill the hole with dirt so that dirt is above the level of the driveway by a few centimeters. Water the soil to sink it in place. Level the dirt using a rake, and drive a vehicle over the dirt several times to pack the soil. Add more soil if necessary.

   • 3

     Rake and shovel the gravel onto the repaired area. Add more gravel to patchy areas throughout the driveway. Drive a vehicle over the area again to level out the gravel and soil.