Materials to Make a Driveway Over Sand

Gravel, Edging and Sand

• Regardless of the paving material you choose, gravel and edging are essential materials for a sand-set driveway. A driveway foundation must be two-thirds as thick as the paving material, or at least 8 inches. The best type of gravel to use is 3/4-inch. The irregular shapes wedge against each other when tamped to support the pavement, but they leave enough space to absorb ground tension and facilitate underground drainage. Use strong edging material like timbers or metal restraints to prevent the pavement from shifting under daily use and heavy weight loads. Once the surface materials are laid, fine sand must be packed between the materials to cushion and lock them in position.

Interlocking Paves

• Cut or molded into uniform shapes designed to lock into each other, interlocking paver kits are available in a range of intricate patterns. They have beveled sides that prevent adjacent pavers from rotating under pressure and must be laid over a completely flat bed of sand. The narrow joints reduce overall maintenance, and setting them on sand makes it easy to repair or replace individual pavers as needed.

Concrete Blocks

• Concrete paving blocks have the strength of a concrete slab with the design versatility of individual pieces. They come in a range of colors and sizes from 6 inches by 9 inches up to 24 square inches. Pair different size blocks for visual interest, but note that large blocks are difficult to carry. Concrete blocks are porous. If they are not finished with a sealer, plan to seal them yourself with a penetrating acrylic sealer about a week after the driveway is laid.

Bricks

• Brick driveways add a classic look and earthy colors to a front yard. They're sturdy and simple to work with for both new and experienced do-it-yourselfers alike. If you're paving a driveway with curved edges or an odd shape, bricks are easier to cut than other paving materials. They can be cut with a chisel and hammer, masonry wet saw or a brick splitter. To repel water and preserve the color and sand joints, plan to seal the driveway every other year.