A gravel driveway is one of the most affordable and durable solutions for homeowners looking to improve curb appeal without blowing the budget. Whether you’re in Hunterdon County, Morris County, or nearby areas in New Jersey, installing a gravel driveway is a project that you can either tackle yourself or have delivered and prepared by professionals like us at Kirk Allen Landscape Supply.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to install a gravel driveway from scratch—including the tools you’ll need, how to prepare the ground, and when to schedule your bulk gravel delivery.
📍 Why Choose a Gravel Driveway?
Before we dive into the steps, let’s look at why gravel is such a popular option among homeowners and contractors:
- Affordability: Gravel is significantly cheaper than asphalt or concrete.
- Drainage: It offers excellent water runoff, which helps reduce erosion and puddles.
- Flexibility: Great for sloped or uneven terrain.
- Easy Maintenance: Repairs are simple—just add more gravel or re-grade as needed.
- Curb Appeal: With choices like crushed stone, pea gravel, or quarry process, you can match your driveway to your landscape’s aesthetic.
🧰 What You’ll Need
Tools & Materials:
- Landscape fabric or geotextile
- Shovel or mini-excavator
- Rake and tamper (or mechanical compactor)
- Wheelbarrow or loader
- Crushed stone or gravel (3 layers—base, middle, top)
- Edging materials (optional but recommended)
You can order your gravel and supplies directly from Kirk Allen Landscape Supply. We offer same-day or next-day delivery across much of New Jersey—just call 973-347-3117 or order online.
🪨 Step 1: Planning Your Driveway
Start by mapping out the area. Consider:
- Width (10-12 ft per vehicle)
- Length
- Shape (straight, curved, circular)
- Access for delivery trucks or equipment
Use landscaping stakes and string to outline the area.
⛏️ Step 2: Clear and Excavate
Clear grass, topsoil, roots, and debris. Use a shovel or machinery depending on the size. You’ll want to dig down at least 6–10 inches to make room for the three gravel layers.
Pro tip: Slightly slope the driveway for water drainage (1-2% pitch is usually enough).
🧶 Step 3: Lay Geotextile Fabric
Laying down a geotextile fabric prevents weeds and keeps the gravel from mixing with the soil. This also improves drainage and extends the life of your driveway.
Don’t skip this step—it’s one of the most common DIY mistakes we see.
🚛 Step 4: Install the Base Layer (3–4 inches)
Use large, angular crushed stone (like 2 ½” or quarry process) for the base. This layer supports the driveway and improves drainage. Once spread out, compact it firmly using a plate compactor.
Need base gravel delivered? We supply bulk QP and other base materials—just give us a call!
🪨 Step 5: Add the Middle Layer (2–3 inches)
Next, add medium-sized gravel (¾” clean stone or similar). This layer transitions between the rough base and the finer top layer. Spread it evenly and compact again.
🌫️ Step 6: Top Layer (1–2 inches)
The final layer is decorative and functional. Pea gravel, crushed stone, or small river rock are all great choices. This layer provides the finish and ensures smooth driving.
Avoid loose round gravel for sloped driveways—it can roll or shift easily.
✏️ Step 7: Define the Edges
Install edging (plastic, stone, metal) to keep the gravel contained and prevent erosion. Not required, but it definitely adds polish and longevity to your new driveway.
💦 Step 8: Water and Settle
Give the gravel a light watering to help the layers settle. Over the next few weeks, occasional compaction or light grading might be needed as it fully stabilizes.
🔁 Ongoing Maintenance Tips
- Rake occasionally to redistribute gravel.
- Add more gravel as needed (usually every 1–2 years).
- Watch for potholes and repair immediately.
- Re-grade in spring if winter causes shifting.
Ordering a small top-up of gravel annually keeps your driveway looking fresh. At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we make it easy to order just what you need when you need it.
🚚 Need Gravel Delivery in New Jersey?
At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we provide affordable, high-quality gravel and bulk landscape materials with flexible delivery options. Whether you’re in Flemington, Raritan Township, or anywhere in Hunterdon and Morris Counties, we’ve got you covered.
Same-day and scheduled deliveries available. Just call 973-347-3117 or visit our site to schedule your order.
📌 Final Thoughts
Installing a gravel driveway may seem like a big job, but with the right prep—and reliable supply delivery—it can be a manageable weekend project. The key is planning, proper layering, and using quality materials. And when it comes to quality and convenience, Kirk Allen Landscape Supply is your trusted partner in New Jersey.
Have questions or need a quote? Don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help homeowners and contractors alike.
