Choosing the Best Stone for Your New or Existing Driveway
When it comes time to build or renovate your driveway, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right stone material. The type of crushed stone you select can have a significant impact on your driveway's durability, drainage, maintenance needs and visual appeal for years to come.
Popular Crushed Stone Materials for Driveways
Limestone
Limestone is a popular choice for driveways because it is an affordable, low maintenance option. It is a sedimentary rock primarily composed of calcite, formed by the buildup of shell, coral, algae and calcium carbonate over millions of years.
The benefits of using limestone for a driveway include:
- Durable and weather-resistant - stands up well to heavy use and extreme weather fluctuations
- Provides good drainage - porous structure allows water to drain quickly
- Cost-effective - more affordable than other natural stone options
The downsides to consider are that limestone can be prone to staining from vehicle fluids or salts, and color options are somewhat limited to white, tans and light greys.
Granite
Granite is an extremely durable igneous rock sourced from quarries. It contains high levels of quartz and feldspar minerals, giving it a crystalline texture. The sparkling specks of minerals make granite a visually appealing choice.
Advantages of granite for driveways include:
- Extreme durability - highest compressive strength of common stones
- Visually appealing - sparkling, variated color from minerals
Disadvantages to consider are that granite is one of the more expensive natural stone options, and supplies can be limited regionally depending on local quarry locations.
Gravel
Gravel is composed of small stones like pebbles or crushed rocks. It is one of the most affordable materials for driveways. Gravel driveways provide effective drainage thanks to the air pockets between the stones, and comes in a wide range of natural colors and sizes.
The pros of gravel driveways include:
- Very cost effective
- Various sizing options from fines to baseball-sized
- Allows rainwater drainage
The cons are that gravel can require more regular maintenance, is not ideal for high traffic, and can erode or shift more easily than other crushed stones.
Other Factors to Consider for Driveway Stone
Climate and Location
Your local climate and region are important considerations for driveway stone selection. In wet, humid climates, porous stones like limestone allow better drainage than smoother stones like slate that can become slippery. In arid climates, you may prioritize aesthetics over permeability. It's best to choose local quarried stone for regional durability.
Traffic Volume
Consider the amount of daily vehicle traffic your driveway will realistically see. For light use by residents, a gravel or limestone surface may suffice. In high traffic areas or commercial properties, opt for the strongest crushed stone you can afford, at the appropriate thickness and compaction level for heavy loads.
Aesthetic Appeal
While strength and function should take precedence, the visual appeal of your driveway stone can also be a deciding factor. Mixing different colors of gravel provides visual interest. Concrete and asphalt can be stamped or dyed in an array of colors. The sparkling minerals in granite create a timeless elegance.
Drainage Needs
Proper drainage prevents driveway damage from moisture saturation. Dense graded crushed stone with angled fragments allows water to drain quickly through the void spaces. On steeply sloped driveways, larger stones may help resist erosion and washout. Good drainage provides a solid base.
When evaluating the many crushed stone options for your driveway, durability and drainage should be top priorities. Take into account your budget, traffic needs, aesthetic preferences, and local climate conditions. Consult with qualified professionals for recommendations on the best stone, depth and installation method for your specific driveway's needs and environment.
A crushed stone driveway can provide years of service with only regular maintenance. A thoughtfully chosen stone driveway will enhance your property's function and curb appeal for decades to come.