A stone driveway brings natural beauty, durability, and rustic charm to any home. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners in New Jersey who want a long-lasting driveway that doesn’t crack like asphalt or concrete. But while stone driveways are relatively low-maintenance, they still need some attention to keep them in top shape.
Whether you just had a new gravel or crushed stone driveway installed or you’re trying to extend the life of an existing one, this guide walks you through practical maintenance tips that will save time, money, and frustration.
Why Choose a Stone Driveway?
Before jumping into the maintenance side of things, it’s worth touching on why stone driveways are so popular across NJ, especially in areas with fluctuating temperatures.
- Cost-effective installation
Stone driveways are often more affordable than concrete or pavers. - Drainage-friendly
Unlike asphalt, gravel and crushed stone allow water to seep through, preventing puddling and reducing erosion. - Rustic curb appeal
The natural look of stone complements both traditional and modern homes.
But as with any surface exposed to the elements and vehicle traffic, it requires upkeep. Fortunately, it’s not too complicated.
1. Regular Raking: Prevent Uneven Surfaces
Over time, stone driveways develop ruts and dips from repeated tire pressure. You may also notice high spots where the gravel gets pushed aside.
What to Do:
- Use a landscaping rake or garden rake to redistribute the stones every few weeks.
- Focus on spreading displaced gravel back into low spots to maintain a smooth, even surface.
- For larger driveways, consider renting or purchasing a driveway grader.
Pro Tip: After heavy rainfall, wait for the surface to dry before raking to avoid creating muddy patches.
2. Weed Control: Keep Growth in Check
Weeds love to find small pockets between stones to grow in, especially during NJ’s warm, wet seasons. While not always harmful structurally, they can become unsightly quickly.
What to Do:
- Apply a landscape-safe weed killer 2–3 times per year.
- For a natural solution, mix vinegar, salt, and a small amount of dish soap and spray on weeds.
- Lay a fresh layer of crushed stone annually to suffocate underlying weed roots.
If your driveway is old and was never laid with a fabric barrier, consider installing one the next time you refresh the base layer.
3. Replenish Gravel or Stone Annually
Driveway stone doesn’t last forever. Between erosion, compression, and displacement from cars, it’s normal to lose a thin layer each year.
What to Do:
- Order additional gravel or crushed stone once a year to keep the surface level and aesthetically pleasing.
- Bulk delivery is usually cheaper per yard than buying by the bag—especially when you purchase from a trusted NJ supplier like Kirk Allen Landscape Supply.
Contact: Call 973-347-3117 to schedule your next stone delivery—whether you need pea gravel, crushed stone, or decorative driveway rock.
4. Address Drainage Issues Early
Standing water is one of the most common reasons stone driveways deteriorate. Poor drainage can cause erosion, stone displacement, and even damage to the driveway base.
What to Look For:
- Puddles forming after a rainstorm
- Washed-out areas or grooves near the edges
What to Do:
- Grade the driveway with a slight crown to help water run off toward the sides.
- Dig shallow trenches (also known as swales) alongside the driveway to direct water away.
- Consider using French drains or perforated pipe systems for persistent problems.
5. Compact the Surface
Loose stone can feel unsteady and will displace more quickly under tires or foot traffic. That’s why compacting your stone driveway is key.
What to Do:
- Rent a plate compactor annually or after adding new stone.
- Go over the entire surface to ensure the stones are tightly packed.
- Focus extra attention on high-traffic areas such as the entrance and turnaround points.
Compacted stone not only looks better but holds up longer under all weather conditions.
6. Keep Edges Neat with Borders
One of the easiest ways to reduce gravel loss is to install edging or driveway borders.
Options:
- Steel or aluminum edging
- Wood timbers
- Concrete curbing
- Cobblestones
By keeping the stones from spilling into the yard, you reduce your maintenance time and preserve your landscaping.
7. Snow Removal Do’s and Don’ts
Winters in Hunterdon, Sussex, and Morris Counties can be rough, and snow removal often damages stone driveways if not done correctly.
Best Practices:
- Use a snow blower or a shovel rather than a plow, especially for lighter storms.
- If you must plow, raise the blade slightly to avoid catching and pushing gravel.
- Avoid salt—it can damage the surrounding soil and harm vegetation. Use sand or non-corrosive deicers instead.
8. Inspect After Every Major Storm
New Jersey weather can be unpredictable. After every major storm or nor’easter, inspect your driveway to catch problems early.
What to Check:
- Signs of erosion or washout
- Deep tire ruts or soft spots
- Areas where the gravel has thinned out
A little attention after a storm can save you from major repair costs down the road.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Looking Fresh
Stone driveways are a smart and beautiful investment for your home, but they’re not maintenance-free. With seasonal touch-ups, proper grading, and occasional replenishment, your gravel or crushed stone driveway can last decades while continuing to turn heads.
For homeowners and contractors throughout Northern NJ, sourcing the right materials is the first step. At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we offer a full selection of gravel, decorative stone, crushed rock, and bulk landscape materials at competitive prices—with local delivery available.
