Gravel driveways require special care to maintain their appearance over the years. Protecting the integrity of the surface will also ensure that it doesn’t suffer damage during winter when it’s frequently exposed to inclement conditions. A little bit of upkeep and attention will make all the difference. Here’s what you need to do so that your driveway is ready for winter.

How to Maintain & Prepare Gravel Driveways for Winter

1. Repair Any Potholes

Potholes are the result of weakened spots that only grow more susceptible to damage over time. They can also pose serious threats in the winter if it snows. The sooner you tackle the problem, the better for the future health of the driveway. The most effective way to handle this is to hire a landscape grading company to fill the space with fresh aggregate.

2. Grade the Surface

Without occasional grading, your gravel driveway may eventually become unstable. Take a close look at the surface if it’s been a while since it last had any grade work. The ravages of last winter, along with rainfall throughout the year, could cause some areas to sink. This leads to the aforementioned potholes and can also affect the property’s curb appeal. Grading the surface ensures that it’s level and promotes improved drainage away from your home, which is particularly critical during winter as moisture levels increase.

3. Prepare for Snow

Homeowners may be uncertain about how best to remove snow from gravel without causing damage. You can be sure you’re ready if you have the right tools on hand before the season begins. In the event of a major snowfall, you can use a snow blower to eliminate the dry powder adding to the weight. Heavy, wet snow is more suitable to remove layer by layer with a shovel. Stop when there’s approximately an inch left so that the shovel doesn’t come into contact and potentially scrape away the gravel.  

 

Could your gravel driveway use some attention? For high-quality material delivery and grade work, trust in the experts at River Bottom Topsoil in Moscow Mills, MO. They’ve served the community for over 25 years, and they’re proud to offer the services that you need to ensure a safe, dry driveway that drains properly year-round. Visit the company online to find out more about these and other options, including topsoil, landscape rock, and mulch delivery. You can also call them at (636) 462-5331.