Paving
About the Pre-Paving Process

         A well compacted gravel base is the most important part of a long lasting paving project. We recommend using an 18" thick gravel base which consists of a 14" layer of coarse gravel for strength and a 4" layer of surface gravel for finish grading. The gravel is compacted in lifts to achieve a solid base with little or no settling.

About the Paving Process

          Paving is also done in two layers. The first is a 2" compacted base or "binder" coat for strength and the second is a 1" compacted surface coat for a smooth finish. Although every effort is made to grade for the best water drainage to avoid puddles, some small ones are inevitable.

          If this is a new paving project, you might just want to apply the base or the "binder" coat for the first one or two years. This will allow the new gravel base to settle and any dips and low areas can be shimmed prior to applying the surface coat. However, both coats are normally completed at the same time.

          If you have an existing paved driveway and would simply like to add a surface coat to cover cracks and low areas, please note that the new surface coat will only be as good as what is underneath. The new surface will look good for a while, however, the cracks will eventually appear through the new surface.

          If your driveway is 15-20 years old, we recommend removing the old pavement, importing finish gravel to attain proper grade, compacting, and then paving with a new base and surface coat as explained above.

After the Paving Process

          Once your paving project is complete, we recommend that any exposed pavement edges be banked with gravel and/or loam and seed. This will help support the edges and, of course, give your project that "finished look." We will also provide you with a brochure that explains in detail how to properly care for your new pavement.