Expert Gravel Pathway & Driveway Install and Repair Services in Ballard
Creating a durable gravel surface in Ballard goes beyond simply spreading rocks. Without critical steps like proper base preparation, fabric installation, and effective compaction, you’ll end up battling potholes and washouts after every rainstorm. Our goal is to construct driveways and paths that efficiently drain water, maintain their integrity, and enhance the charm of your Ballard home—even amidst our neighborhood’s unique hilly terrain.
What Challenges Do We Address?
- Potholes and Ruts: Common after Ballard’s heavy rains.
- Muddy Winters and Dusty Summers: Poor drainage and inadequate base lead to unpleasant conditions.
- Gravel Migration: Gravel spreading into lawns and flower beds due to insufficient edging.
- Standing Water: Inadequate grading at garages or gates can cause water pooling.
- Wheel Ruts: Compromised fabric due to improper installation.
What We Install (and Why It Works)
Proper Base: We excavate soft areas and add crushed rock base (not round rock) in compacted layers to ensure stability.
Geotextile Road Fabric: Installed where necessary to prevent mixing with the underlying clay.
Correct Top Course:
- Paths: We use ¼″-10 or ⅜″ minus for a smooth, pedestrian-friendly surface.
- Driveways: ⅝″ minus or 1¼″ minus to ensure interlocking and traction.
Real Compaction: Utilizing plate and roller compaction methods to ensure longevity.
Edges That Hold: Steel/aluminum edging or timber/concrete restraints to keep gravel in place.
Effective Drainage: We ensure proper slope or crown for water runoff, plus swales or tie-ins to existing drainage systems.
Stabilization Options: Honeycomb gravel grids for steep approaches.
While pea gravel is attractive, it shifts too easily and will only be used decoratively.
Install & Repair Options
- Full Build: From excavation to final compaction and edging, we handle it all.
- Resurface: We’ll repair ruts, add base, reset grades, and top with fresh gravel.
- Drainage Fixes: Installation of channel drains or catch basins, plus downspout rerouting.
- Tight Access Specialists: We excel in working within narrow spaces typical of Ballard’s alleys and small yards.
Quick Coverage & Ordering (So It Makes Sense)
- 1 cubic yard at a 2″ depth covers approximately 160 sq ft (a handy rule of thumb).
- Base Calculation: For a 4″ base across 400 sq ft, you’ll need about 5 yd³; factor in 10–15% for compaction losses.
- A driveway refresh typically requires 1–3 yd³ of ⅝″ minus, depending on rut depth.
Our Annual Maintenance Plan (Your Yard’s Best Friend)
- Pothole/Rut Repair: Scarify, add base, and re-compact—no half-measures here!
- Edge Patrol: Re-spike edging and clear stray gravel.
- Drainage Check: Ensure inlets are clear and swales adjusted post-storm.
- Top-Up Passes: A light refresh to keep the surface intact.
- Weed Control: Integrated Pest Management approach for weeds along edges.
We focus on low-maintenance landscaping to minimize potholes and enhance longevity.
Service Cadences (Choose What Works for You)
- Quarterly: Includes seasonal resets and checks during stormy months.
- Bi-Monthly: Perfect for shaded or sloped areas prone to litter and erosion.
(New builds on slopes may start monthly for the first 60–90 days, then taper down.)
What’s Included in Annual Maintenance
- A detailed inspection with photos documenting grades and low spots.
- Our careful scarify and compact method for pothole repairs.
- Edging resets and cleanup along borders.
- Drainage inlet clean-out and minor adjustments to swales.
- Optional dust control treatment during summer months.
Why Annual Maintenance Matters
- Safer Footing & Traction: Reduced risk of slips and washboarding.
- Extended Surface Life: Properly locked fines decrease rock loss and tracking.
- Cleaner Look: Defined edges and consistent color without scattered gravel.
- Cost Savings: Preventative maintenance is more budget-friendly than extensive repairs.
How the Process Works
- Free Estimate: We begin with a walkthrough and provide clear pricing.
- Plan & Prep: Discuss base needs, fabric use, edging, and drainage routes.
- Build/Repair Day: We excavate, install fabric, add base lifts, compact, edge, and clean up.
- Follow-Up: We share care tips and any recommended maintenance.
Why Ballard Chooses Neat & Tidy
- We know Ballard’s clay pockets, steep alleys, and heavy winter rains.
- Licensed & insured for your reassurance.
- Transparent pricing—all materials, labor, hauling, and disposal are included.
- We pride ourselves on punctual, respectful, and tidy work.
- Eco-friendly approach—prioritizing permeable surfaces and smart water management.
Ready for a driveway or path that truly holds up?
Call or text Neat & Tidy today for a gravel install or repair that drains, compacts, and stays put. We’ll keep it tidy—so you can enjoy your space without the hassle.
