How to Regravel a Driveway

Gravel driveways provide a casual look that complements almost any style of home. They're also affordable and simple to install and maintain. Gravel driveways are water-permeable, so they don't suffer from cracks and frost heaves, but the rocks do break down and wear away due to normal wear and tear and snow plows in winter. Regraveling a driveway is a task you can do yourself every few years with basic materials.

Gloves
Rake
Metal frame
Small gravel
Shovel
Medium gravel

Instructions

- 1
  Pull weeds from the driveway with gloved hands. Larger weeds will leave holes you'll need to fill, but removing the roots ensures the weeds won't grow back.
- 2
  Rake the sides of the driveway from the outside in to pull back any rocks that scattered over surrounding grass. Rake the length of the driveway to make it even. If your driveway is long, attach a heavy metal frame to the back of your car and drag it over the length of the driveway.
- 3
  Identify any potholes or low areas. Overfill them with small gravel and drive over each area to pack the rocks down.
- 4
  Shovel a new layer of medium-sized gravel over the top. Add gravel until the surface sits about 2 inches above the ground. Rake the rocks so they're even.
- 5
  Add another 2-inch layer of gravel down the middle of the driveway and rake it to form a slight crown over the surface. With the highest point down the center, water will naturally flow off the sides of the driveway.
- 6
  Remove sticks and fallen leaves regularly to prevent them from breaking down on the rocks.

Different Styles of Driveways

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