How to Reset Your Gravel Driveway After Winter Plowing and Snowmelt

Winter can be tough on gravel driveways, especially in Northwest Ohio where snowplows, freeze-thaw cycles, and heavy snowmelt take a toll. By the time spring arrives, many homeowners are left with ruts, potholes, washed-out areas, and uneven surfaces that weren’t there in the fall.

The good news is that early spring is the perfect time to reset your gravel driveway and prevent small issues from turning into expensive repairs later in the year.

Here’s how winter damage happens and what you can do now to restore a smooth, durable driveway.

What Winter Does to Gravel Driveways

Snowplowing is one of the biggest contributors to gravel loss. Each pass of the plow can scrape away top layers of stone, pushing gravel into yards or ditches. At the same time, melting snow seeps into low spots and underneath the gravel base. When overnight temperatures drop, that water freezes and expands, creating ruts and soft spots.

Spring rain only adds to the problem. Without proper drainage, water continues to pool in damaged areas, turning compacted gravel into mud and deepening potholes with every passing vehicle.

RELATED ARTICLE: Signs It’s Time to Replace Mulch, Topsoil, or Gravel

Start With a Visual Inspection

Before adding new gravel, take time to assess the condition of your driveway. Look for low spots, visible base material, standing water, and areas where gravel has migrated to the sides. Pay special attention to slopes and high-traffic zones near garages or turnarounds, as these areas often see the most wear.

This inspection helps you determine whether your driveway needs light resurfacing or a more thorough reset with fresh material.

Rebuild the Surface, Not Just the Appearance

One common mistake homeowners make is spreading a thin layer of decorative gravel without addressing the underlying problems. While it may look better temporarily, it won’t fix ruts or drainage issues.

For long-lasting results, fill potholes and low areas first using a compactable gravel like limestone #411 or #304. These materials lock together when packed down, creating a stable base. Once the surface is level and properly compacted, you can add a top layer of gravel if desired to improve appearance and traction.

Improve Drainage Before Problems Return

Proper drainage is essential for keeping a gravel driveway intact through spring and summer storms. A slight crown down the center of the driveway allows water to shed toward the edges instead of collecting in the middle. Clearing ditches and edges also helps water flow away from the surface.

Addressing drainage now prevents repeat damage and extends the life of your new gravel.

RELATED ARTICLE: Bulk Pea Gravel & Stone Delivery in Toledo, OH

Gravel Driveway Repair Common Questions

Q. Why does my gravel driveway look worse every spring?

A. Freeze-thaw cycles, snowplowing, and snowmelt wash gravel away and weaken the base. Without spring repairs, damage compounds each year.

Q. What is the best gravel for repairing winter damage?

A. Crushed limestone blends like #411 or #304 are ideal because they compact well and resist movement under traffic.

Q. Should I wait until summer to fix my gravel driveway?

A. No. Early spring repairs help prevent rain from worsening ruts and potholes. Fixing issues now saves money and effort later.

Q. How much gravel do I need to reset my driveway?

A. The amount depends on driveway size and depth of damage. A local supplier can help calculate the right quantity based on square footage and repair needs.

Q. Is gravel delivery better than picking it up myself?

A. Bulk delivery saves time, reduces wear on vehicles, and ensures you have enough material to complete repairs properly.

Resetting your gravel driveway after winter plowing and snowmelt is one of the smartest maintenance steps you can take as the seasons change. Fresh, properly compacted gravel improves drainage, restores smooth driving conditions, and protects your driveway from further damage.

Lammon Brothers provides high-quality bulk gravel and reliable delivery throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Contact Lammon Brothers today to get the right materials delivered and start your spring driveway reset the right way.

The post How to Reset Your Gravel Driveway After Winter Plowing and Snowmelt appeared first on Lammon Bros.



from Lammon Bros https://lammonbros.com/how-to-reset-your-gravel-driveway/
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