A gravel driveway is one of the most sought-after choices of homeowners due to its wallet-friendly feature, visual appeal, easy installation, low maintenance, environmentally friendly, availability in several colors, and the permeability of water into the soil under the gravel to prevent flooding.
The gravel driveway also prevents water accumulation and ice build-up during winters. If you have landed on this page to gather information about gravel driveway cost, you are at the right place, as we will discuss the topic in-depth, considering multiple factors. Let's have a look.
Gravel Driveway Cost
The average cost to build a gravel driveway is $1 to $3 per square foot, which is between $300 and $4320. However, based on several factors discussed later in the article, it can go up to $60000 for some bigger driveways.
The cost depends on the driveway size, the land preparation requirement, and many other factors, so it's advisable to calculate the approximate cost to build the driveway while keeping in mind the little variation.
The Factors Affecting the Driveway Cost
There are umpteen factors, such as depth, area, permit, land preparation, type of gravel, color, labor requirement, tree removal drainage system, delivery charges for material, and sloping.
Depth
The cost depends on the depth. More gravel is needed to fill the deep driveway. Usually, the depth of the driveway is 4 inches, but many experts recommend 8 to 12 inches, so on an average the cost lies between $850-$1300.
Area
The cost of a driveway is directly proportional to its area/size. The bigger the area, the higher the cost, and vice versa. The average cost is between $1.25 and $1.80 per square foot.
Permit
You may have to apply for a permit and pay taxes to build a driveway, which can cost $500-$2000.
Land Preparation
If the land preparation process is simple, there is nothing to worry about, but if it requires excavation and grading, be prepared to shell a little more. The average cost ranges between $1400-$5800, excluding the cost involved in removing trees or any other hurdle.
Type of Gravel
The gravel material you choose affects the driveway cost because the material's price varies. Pea gravel is the low-end option, and quartz and blue stone are the costliest. Overall, the cost ranges between $25 and $100 per ton.
Color
Colorful gravel costs more than natural color gravel.
Labor Requirement
There are certain things you can't manage on your own, like drainage and re-sloping, and when you have to hire an expert to do the task, that will cost you depending on the tools required and the work. The average cost varies between $30 per hour for professionals.
Drainage System
A drainage system may be needed to shift water from the driveway.
Tree Removal
If you plan to build a new driveway or expand the existing one.
Delivery Charges for Materials
The company's delivery charges vary depending on the distance and the quantity. Many companies have a minimum delivery quantity, and if you order less, you may have to pay additional delivery expenses.
Resloping
Resloping intends to drive water away from the structural foundation of your homes. The possibility of erosion can be ruled out by installing metal or wooden edging.
Driveway Cost Based on Different Factors Discussed Above
| Factors | Average Cost |
| Land preparation |
Grading ($100-$3400) Resloping ($400-$5000) Excavation ($500-$6000) |
| Type of gravel |
Pea gravel, crushed granite ($25-$50) per ton Crushed clamshell($25-$60) per ton Crushed marble($25-$65) per ton Crushed limestone($30-$40) per ton River rock($35-$50) per ton Bluestone gravel($50-$100) per ton Quartz gravel($70-$100) per ton |
| Depth | $850-$1300 |
| Permit | $500-$2000 |
| Drainage | $2000-$5000 |
| Permit and taxes | $500-$2000 |
| Labor | $30 per hour |
| Tree removal | $150-$1935 |
Pros and Cons of Gravel Driveway
Before concluding to install a gravel driveway, it's essential to know all about it, including the pros and cons, to ensure you make the informed decision.
Pros
Cost-Effective- Gravel driveway is an affordable.
Versatile- Gravel driveway has versatility in aesthetics.
Easy Installation- Gravel driveway doesn't require special equipment in installation.
Durability- A gravel driveway can last for decades, but you need to replenish the crushed stone every one to three years.
Cons
Maintenance- One of the challenging features of gravel driveways is their high maintenance, especially when they're borderless. High foot traffic tends to displace gravel along the side, leading to worn paving.
Weeds- Another issue is the growth of weeds. If weeds are not removed immediately, they can affect the visual appearance of the exterior space and also the structure.
Cleaning- Cleaning debris and leaves from the pavement can be difficult. If you use a leaf blower, small pebbles can also get displaced. The best way to bind the gravel in place is to use homemade mulch glue, which allows you to clean the pavement freely with a leaf blower.
Lack of stability- Over time, gravel shifts to the sideways and pavement, making it difficult to clear the snow during cold weather. Even strong wind, precipitation, and heavy vehicles displace the small pieces, creating holes in the surface.
Safety- It can damage the wheels of the vehicles because small rocks may get trapped in the wheels.
