Can I install a gravel driveway myself?

Small areas can be relatively easy to take on yourself. But for larger driveways, you'll need correct excavation, sub-base installation and compaction. Poor preparation can lead to uneven surfaces and drainage issues. That's why we always recommend hiring an [experienced gravel driveway installer ](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/gravel-driveway-installer-near-me/)for the job.

How long does a gravel driveway last?

With good installation and maintenance, a gravel driveway can last for many years to come. That said, it may need topping up or re-levelling over time if potholes occur.

Can I park my car on a gravel driveway?

Yes, you can park your car on a gravel driveway. That said, it’s not recommended for everyday use if you can avoid it. That’s because it can lead to issues like rust from trapped moisture and potential tire damage from sharp stones.

Is gravel cheaper than block paving?

Yes. Gravel is generally much cheaper than [block paving](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/block-paving-cost/), both in terms of materials and installation costs.

Does a gravel driveway need drainage?

Gravel is naturally permeable, so additional drainage is often not required. That’s provided the sub-base is installed correctly.

What type of gravel is best for driveways?

Gravel sizes such as 10mm or 20mm are commonly used for driveways, as they provide good stability while still allowing drainage. An experienced [gravel driveway installer](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/gravel-driveway-installer-near-me/) can advise on what's best for your driveway size and gradient.

How to find reliable installers for gravel and shingle driveways in [location]

At Checkatrade, we want to help you find someone right for the job. To help you find checked and reviewed installers for gravel and shingle driveways in [location], consider these steps: - Read online reviews to determine their reputation and quality of work - Verify their public liability insurance, so you know they’re covered against any potential accidents or damages - [Get multiple quotes](https://www.checkatrade.com/post-a-job) from at least three tradespeople so you can compare prices and services - Use Checkatrade and **hire a tradesperson that has gone through up to 12 checks** so that you can hire with confidence

Gravel / Shingle Driveways in Swanage (30)

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A T Home Services
10.00
(125 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Permeable Paving
Driveway Repair
Concrete Driveways
Call
G
GardensRevolution
9.67
(29 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Patios / Paving
Driveway Repair
Soakaways
Call
David Penfold And Son
10.00
(84 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Bonded Aggregate Surfacing
Driveway Cleaning / Sealing
Concrete Driveways
Call
Harbour Paving
9.93
(84 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Resin Bound Surfacing
Resin Bond Surfacing
Driveway / Patio Design
Call
EDT Fencing and Landscaping
9.91
(37 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Soakaways
Concrete Driveways
Patios / Paving
Call
S Newham Groundworks
9.90
(19 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Driveway Repair
Concrete Driveways
Tarmac Driveways
Call
MJP Driveways Limited
9.56
(51 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Emergency Driveways / Patios / Paths Service
Driveway / Patio Design
Bonded Aggregate Surfacing
Call
BLOCKWISE PAVING & BUILDING LTD
9.90
(49 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Road Markings
Resin Bound Surfacing
Driveway Repair
Call
Steve Collins & Sons Surfacing Limited
9.33
(530 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Permeable Paving
Tarmac Driveways
Block Paving
Call
Douglas Hutchins Landscaping & Driveways
9.90
(208 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Soakaways
Resin Bound Surfacing
Patios / Paving
Call
EC landscapes and Property Maintenance
9.62
(15 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Block Paving
Driveway Cleaning / Sealing
Driveway Repair
Call
Hrh Construction Ltd
9.86
(30 reviews)
Operates in Swanage
Services & skills
Driveways / Patios / Paths
Gravel / Shingle Driveways
Block Paving
Permeable Paving
Road Markings
Call

Top rated Gravel / Shingle Driveways in Swanage

/10

132 ratings

Our Gravel / Shingle Driveways in Swanage are rated an average of 10 out of 10 based on a sample of 132 reviews from customers like you*

*This review aggregate is based on real customer reviews from a randomly selected postcode in this area

Find Contractors for Gravel & Shingle Driveways in Swanage

Thinking about resurfacing your driveway with gravel or shingle? With the right preparation and materials, gravel driveways offer:

Affordability
Practicality
Good drainage
Flexibility in design
Good security (you can hear people and cars approaching)

Read on to find out whether a gravel driveway is right for your home — and how to find driveway installers covering your local area.

Rather we do the searching for you? Try our quick request a quote feature, and we’ll put you in touch with experienced driveway contractors covering your local area.

How much does a gravel or shingle driveway cost in Swanage?

Expect to pay between £2308 and £4691 , with an average cost of £3277.

That said, exactly how much you pay depends on the:

Type of gravel
Groundwork preparation or edging needed
Driveway size and access

Tip: Our driveway resurfacing cost guide goes into more detail about the price involved.

Is a gravel driveway a good idea?

Yes, gravel and shingle driveways are a good option. Here's why:

Cost-effective
No additional drainage needed
Quick installation (compared to other alternatives, like block paving)

That said, just like other driveway materials, they do need occasional maintenance.

Tip: Check out our expert advice guide for the pros and cons of a gravel driveway

How much gravel do I need for a driveway?

As a general guide, one tonne of gravel covers around 10–14 m² at a depth of 50mm.

That said, the exact amount needed depends on driveway size and the depth of gravel used.

The beauty of hiring an experienced gravel driveway installer is they’ll do all the working outs for you.

How deep should gravel be for a driveway?

As a general guide, gravel driveway usually needs at least 50mm of gravel on top of a solid sub-base. The sub-base itself is typically much deeper to provide stability and prevent sinking.

A gravel driveway installer will advise the exact depth based on the size of driveway and frequency of use.

Do I need a sub-base for a gravel driveway?

Yes. A proper sub-base is a must to prevent:

Potholes
Sinking
Weed growth

Your contractor will usually install a compacted sub-base before laying the gravel.

Why use Checkatrade?

Fully checked installers covering your local area
Insurance always listed
Easy to compare multiple profiles
Handy reviews from local customers
Covered by the Checkatrade Guarantee (T&Cs apply)

Looking for more tradespeople in Swanage?

Find Checkatrade reviewed Tradespeople, get a quote today, discover related services in Swanage and check out our latest home improvement guides.

Gravel / Shingle Driveways in Swanage (30)

Search results

Describe your job

Describe your job

A T Home Services

Services & skills

GardensRevolution

Services & skills

David Penfold And Son

Services & skills

Harbour Paving

Services & skills

EDT Fencing and Landscaping

Services & skills

S Newham Groundworks

Services & skills

MJP Driveways Limited

Services & skills

BLOCKWISE PAVING & BUILDING LTD

Services & skills

Steve Collins & Sons Surfacing Limited

Services & skills

Douglas Hutchins Landscaping & Driveways

Services & skills

EC landscapes and Property Maintenance

Services & skills

Hrh Construction Ltd

Services & skills

Find Contractors for Gravel & Shingle Driveways in Swanage

How much does a gravel or shingle driveway cost in Swanage?

Is a gravel driveway a good idea?

How much gravel do I need for a driveway?

How deep should gravel be for a driveway?

Do I need a sub-base for a gravel driveway?

Why use Checkatrade?

Looking for more tradespeople in Swanage?