How to Lay Plastic Gravel Grids: A Step-by-Step Guide. (2024)

FAQs

Do you need a sub-base for gravel grids? ›

Before installing your gravel driveway grid, ensure you have a smooth and solid base for it to be put onto. We suggest compacting MOT type 1 or similar to a depth of at least 100mm. However you can lay the gravel stabilisation grid directly onto soil, grass or any other permeable surface.

Ground reinforcement grids are the perfect alternative to concrete shed foundations as they are quick and easy to lay, durable and ensure adequate drainage. You can simply lay a geotextile membrane to prevent weeds, put down the grids, fill with gravel or sand and then build your shed.

The sheets are designed to be unseen and a 20 - 25mm deep surface layer of gravel is used to cover the surface of the Nidagravel gravel grids.

Accessibility and stability – the use of a gravel grid provides a solid base to “hold” the gravel, creating a hard surface as firm as an asphalt or paved surface, even on a slope. This stable surface allows vehicles, wheelchairs and buggies to move easily over the surface without sinking or losing grip.

For a level finish with an exposed grid surface, you'll need 20kg/grid. For a discrete finish with no grids on show, you'll need at least 30kg/grid. How much gravel you'll need in total is then a simple calculation based on how large an area you are covering.

We suggest using a sub-base that consists of various sized pieces of aggregate that compact together such as MOT Type 1. Ensure you have ordered the correct amount of sub-base; we suggest laying it to at least a depth of 50mm. Normally 1 bulk bag of MOT Type 1 will cover approximately 10m² at this depth.

Can I use any type of sub-base for gravel paths? Crushed Limestone or Type I are commonly used as sub-base materials. The depth of the sub-base should be considered based on the specific requirements of the project and ground conditions.

Gravelrings is only recommended for use on sloped surfaces with a maximum gradient of 1:5 (20 per cent). If the driveway in question is has a gradient greater than that then an alternative surface finish is recommended.

Here's what you need to do: Clear the area: Remove any grass, weeds, or debris from the area where you'll be laying the gravel. Use a shovel or garden fork to loosen the soil and remove any roots or rocks. Level the soil: Use a rake to level out the soil and create a smooth, even surface.

Sand Requires a Special Paving Solution

Some types of permeable pavement such as loose gravel, interlocking concrete pavers, porous concrete, and porous asphalt are unsuitable for use on sand. This is because, among other things, they are not rooted in the soil at all.

How much sand under gravel? ›

For gravel, you'll need 4–6” of ¾ minus crushed gravel. One yard of gravel covers approximately 80 square feet. For the sand, you'll need 1” of concrete sand.

To lay gravel, mark your area off with spray paint or rope. Then, use a spade to remove 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) of soil. Pour 2–3 inches (5.1–7.6 cm) of crushed stone into the pit and put landscaping fabric on top. Cover the fabric with your gravel and spread it out with a rake to finish laying your gravel.

As a general guide, one ton of gravel typically covers approximately: 100 square feet at a 2-inch depth. 80 square feet at a 3-inch depth. 60 square feet at a 4-inch depth.

If you're using landscape fabric simply to prevent weed overgrowth, yes, you can use plastic sheets as an alternative to landscape fabric. However, if you want to use this product under mulch like gravel, rocks, or other hardscaping material, you're better off sticking to landscape fabric.

Lay a sub-base: Once the area is prepared, you should lay a sub-base of crushed stone or hardcore. The sub-base used must be type 3, or a free draining equivalent. This will provide a stable base for the self-binding gravel and prevent it from sinking or becoming uneven.

In zones with hard clay, that can be the soil itself. But in most areas, especially where the soil is sandy, you'll need to create a base of tamped-down stone pack, which is a mix of ¾-inch stones and stone dust. A lining of landscape fabric over the base will keep weeds from growing up through the path.