The average cost for a ton of driveway gravel is between £30 and £60. Driveway gravel is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is affordable, easy to install, and requires little maintenance. It produces paths, driveways, mulch, and drainage. The cost of driveway gravel varies depending on multiple factors, such as type, colour and whether it is polished. Polished gravel has a shine to it and costs more than non-polished varieties.
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Types of Driveway Gravel
There are a few different types of gravel that are popular for driveways. Each has its own cost and specific use. To choose the best driveway materials for your home, you must first think about where you live and how often your driveway is used. Here are a few of the most common:
Pea Gravel
Pea gravel is the most popular type of driveway gravel because it is affordable and easy to install. It is small, spherical, has smooth gravel and is available in white, grey, brown, and black colours. Pea gravel is great for patios because it is comfortable to walk on them.
Crushed Stone
Crushed stone is a popular driveway choice because it's durable and acts as a good driveway drainage. These stones are slightly larger than pea gravel and come in various colours, including white, grey, tan and black.
River Rock
River rock is larger than pea gravel and crushed stone and is smooth with a rounded shape. It comes in multiple colours: white, grey, tan, black and brown. River rock is popular for driveways because it's aesthetically pleasing and provides good drainage.
Flagstone
Flagstone is a sedimentary rock in multiple colours, including grey, tan, black and brown. It is a popular driveway choice because it is durable and has a natural, rustic look.
Decomposed Granite
Decomposed granite is a type of gravel that consists of small pieces of granite that have been broken down over time. Decomposed granite is a popular choice for driveways because it is affordable and easy to install.
The Cost of a Gravel Driveway
The table below shows the average cost of a gravel driveway per ton:
| Type of gravel | Cost per ton |
|---|---|
| Pea gravel | £30 - £35 |
| Crushed stone | £35 - £40 |
| River rock | £40 - £50 |
| Flagstone | £45 - £50 |
| Decomposed granite | £50 - £60 |
A gravel driveway's cost depends on the gravel's type, colour, and polish. Pea gravel is the most affordable option, while decomposed granite is the most expensive option.
Factors in Gravel Driveway Cost
Calculating gravel driveway cost depends on several factors. Here are some of the most important:
- Gravel
- Labour
- Materials
- Permits
- Equipment
Gravel
A gravel road is markedly distinct from a 'gravel drive', which is favoured for private driveways in the United Kingdom. This type employs clean gravel made up of uniform, rounded stones and small pebbles. The gravel you choose for your driveway impacts the overall cost. Pea gravel is the most affordable option, while polished gravel is the most expensive.
Labour
The cost varies depending on your driveway's size and complexity. If you have a simple gravel driveway, the labour cost is lower than a complex driveway with multiple levels and curves. While the labourer is there, it will cost you much less to use this opportunity also to repair your gravel patio.
Materials
The materials cost depends on the gravel you choose for your driveway. Pea gravel is the most affordable option, while polished gravel is the most expensive.
Permits
The cost varies depending on your municipality if you need to obtain a permit for your driveway.
Equipment
If you must rent or buy equipment to install your driveway, the cost will vary based on the type of equipment required.
When choosing the right type of gravel for your driveway, it's essential to consider both cost and aesthetics. Pea gravel is a good choice if you're on a budget, while crushed stone and river rock are good choices if you're looking for a more aesthetically pleasing driveway.