Ditch Concrete: An Affordable Type Of Gravel To Use For Your Driveway

If you've ever been to the hardware store, trying to describe the little washer thing or hooked elbow doohickey that you need for your project, you understand what it's like to try and order something when you don't know what it's called. The stakes are higher with large projects, where ordering the wrong material can cost hundreds of dollars. Sometimes, when you don't know what it is that you need, you run the risk of missing out on some cheaper options. That's exactly the case with quarry process, a type of gravel often used as an affordable alternative to concrete.

While gravel may not be an exciting topic, the basics are worth understanding. Quarry process, which is also called crusher run, is a mixture of crushed stone and dust particles. The stone dust is what makes it different from products like pea gravel, because when you compact it, the dust particles bind everything together. Unlike pea gravel, river rock, and other types of crushed rock, quarry process can handle car traffic without shifting out of place and getting all over your lawn.

With rising concrete prices, many homeowners are looking for driveway materials that go beyond concrete. Quarry process offers similar firmness at a lower cost, making it a practical option for long driveways or gravel paths.

When you're looking for the best gravel for your driveway, one of the most important facts to know about quarry process is that it compacts well enough to be used as both a base and a top layer for driveways. It also works well as backfill material and is a good choice for walking and bike paths.

Quarry process, sometimes called crusher run or minus rock, is crushed and blended so that when it's compacted, there are as few voids as possible. This helps the gravel stay in place and prevents low spots that can turn into puddles and eventually potholes. Because of this, compacting in layers is an essential step when working with quarry process. For small installations, you may be able to rent a plate compactor and do this job yourself, but working with a local contractor is often a better solution for longer driveways.

If you DIY a gravel driveway using quarry process, remember to crown the surface so water runs off. While quarry process is considered low maintenance, it's also important to keep your expectations in check, as even the best installation will require occasional upkeep. Quarry process also isn't a perfect solution for sloped driveways, as it can still migrate on steep grades. This is why some people choose permeable grid pavers — you know, those grid-like thingamajigs — to help lock it in place.