Driveway Orientation — What to Consider Before You Buy
Straight driveway, residential light duty use.
Tires roll straight with no turning — minimal stone displacement.
Is Gravel-Lok right for my driveway?
It depends on your driveway layout. Gravel-Lok works best when the driveway runs straight from the street to the garage — meaning you can pull in and out without turning your wheels on the surface. The less wheel turning, the less friction, and the longer the surface holds up.
If your driveway requires wheels to turn, stones will come loose more frequently, requiring more maintenance roll coats — sometimes every 6 months instead of every 1–3 years typically for a driveway.
What type of stones are required for a Gravel-Lok driveway?
Stones should not be larger than 1/2", they must be angular, washed, and clean. If the mix method is being used then 2" depth of stone for the pour use the 2.5" depth calculator with the gravel bed at least 3 stones deep. A proper sub-base or load support grid underneath is also required to handle the weight of vehicle traffic.Is Gravel-Lok cheaper than concrete or asphalt?
No. Concrete or asphalt is typically the more affordable option for driveways. Gravel-Lok also carries higher long-term maintenance costs than a standard Gravel-Lok patio or walkway.
Can Gravel-Lok be used for driveway repairs?
No — it should not be used to repair an existing driveway.
How do I clean my Gravel-Lok surface?
Sweep with a stiff-bristle broom and rinse with a garden hose. You can also power wash using cold water — low-pressure tip, wand at least 8" from the surface.
Can I use a snow plow on it?
With caution. Even a rubber-blade plow can gouge the surface. For ice and frost, salt works great — apply before or after a freeze. Other ice-melt products are fine too.
What temperature does Gravel-Lok need to be installed at?
Gravel-Lok must be installed when temperatures are between 50°F and 90°F and are expected to remain in that range for 24 hours after application. Installing outside this window can affect how the binder cures and may lead to a failed installation.
Will stones come loose over time?
Yes, that's normal. About 1% of stones come loose annually under light use. Wheel traffic — especially where tires turn — accelerates this. Bikes, carts, high heels, and patio furniture dragging across the surface also contribute. Normally we see customers doing a roll coat on walkways and patios every 3–7 years depending on use and personal preference.
What's a divot and why does it matter?
A divot forms when a stone comes loose and nearby stones become more vulnerable — like a pothole that grows over time. Left unrepaired, it becomes a tripping hazard. Inspect regularly and patch early.
How often does it need maintenance?
For driveways: every 1–2 years, possibly every 6 months depending on use. For patios and walkways: typically every 3–7 years, depending on traffic and personal preference.
What does maintenance involve?
- Patching divots
- Applying roll coats to refresh the binder
- Occasional skim coat (thin overlay of new stones + Gravel-Lok liquid) for a full renewal