One of the most important aspects of laying a driveway is ensuring it’s properly reinforced. This can make all the difference in how well the driveway stands up to harsh weather and heavy traffic. 

From uneven ground to car tyres, there are many factors that cause driveways to need reinforcement. Here’s what you need to know about ground reinforcement grids and why it’s so important for laying a gravel driveway.

What Is a Ground Reinforcement Grid?

A ground reinforcement grid is installed beneath the gravel subgrade before the gravel is poured. This grid creates a strong foundation on which your driveway can be built. This helps to stabilise the ground and prevent it from cracking, in either extremes of cold or heat.

Your ground reinforcement grid can be created using a system of rebar and wire, this is both time consuming and labour intensive. Alternatively, you can use premade driveway grids that quickly join together to cover the area of your driveway. This option is strong, durable and easy to install. 

The ground reinforcement grid can be buried beneath a layer of gravel or another type of material, depending on what you’re looking for in terms of looks and performance.

Why Do You Need It For a Gravel Driveway?

The ground reinforcement grid is one of the most important aspects of laying a gravel driveway. This is because it provides the necessary support for the gravel, helping it to withstand harsh weather and heavy traffic. 

It can also help to reduce gravel spread and protect the ground beneath it, stopping your driveway from developing pits and becoming uneven over time. Additionally, driveway grids help with drainage, allowing water to drain away naturally to stop your driveway from flooding. 

Even if your driveway doesn’t see a lot of traffic or isn’t currently used for a vehicle, installing ground reinforcements will protect it in the long term. This means it will still be usable years down the line and require less maintenance. 

Where Does The Grid Go?

Ground reinforcement grids are usually installed underneath the gravel. You should dig out the base of your driveway and ensure the ground is flat and compacted (a ground roller can help with this). 

Once the ground is prepared, it’s a good idea to lay a weed preventative membrane to stop weeds and plants growing up through your driveway. You can lay the ground reinforcement grids directly on top of this before filling them with your chosen gravel. 

The Position Of The Grid

Your ground reinforcement grids should be laid out according to the ideal path of the driveway. You want to ensure that your grids sit as close to the edges of your driveway as possible to provide maximum coverage and protection. 

Marking out your driveway before you buy your materials is the best way to ensure this, as it allows you to easily measure the space and work out how many grids you’ll need.

How Deep Should You Lay Your Driveway Reinforcement Grid?

The size of the grid and its depth relative to the gravel surface is crucial for a properly reinforced driveway. The ground reinforcement grid serves as a support system that holds up the gravel on the surface, so it’s important that these two factors are compatible.

Ideally, your driveway reinforcement grid should be covered with 20-35m of gravel to allow for even coverage. Over time, as the driveway is used, the gravel will shift and settle to a 10mm-15mm surface layer as it compacts. 

You should take this into account when digging out the base for your driveway so you avoid digging it too deep or too shallow. If you are worried about gravel spreading onto other areas of your garden, you may want to consider using driveway edging to keep it in place and ensure your driveway continues to look tidy. 

Will I Need To Replace The Driveway Grid?

Our driveway grids are incredibly durable and will last for years, whether you use them on a permanent driveway or as a temporary solution. 

They are made of strong and robust materials that can withstand foot traffic and vehicles, helping to keep your driveway usable and looking its best. 

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