Driveways can be made from many different materials, decomposed granite being one of the most popular choices. Decomposed granite is derived from regular granite. However, it’s a version of granite that’s been so weathered it easily breaks into smaller pieces.
Decomposed granite can sometimes break down into such small pieces that it resembles sand. You might think this doesn’t sound like a very durable material to build driveways with, but there are multiple ways to utilize decomposed granite in a driveway.
It is actually one of the most popular forms of permeable pavement, so in case you’re looking to build a new driveway or repave your old one, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of decomposed granite as it pertains to driveways:
Why Do People Use Decomposed Granite in Their Driveways?
A decomposed granite driveway has many benefits that certain homeowners find attractive. It comes in a variety of colors that allow you stylistic versatility in your driveway. Yellow, brown, white, grey, and dark blue are just a few of the available colors, and it’s also very cheap.
The intial cost of purchasing and installing a crushed granite driveway is very low, especially if you leave it unstabilized. By adding stabilization, however, it can last years and years before needing to be replenished. The installation process is also very fast and do not require days of effort like asphalt and concrete driveways do when they need to be resurfaced or resealed.
Another huge benefit of a decomposed granite driveway is that it’s extremely permeable and eco-friendly. It requires very little equipment to produce and install, and allows stormwater to drain directly through it. It is excellent for mitigating driveway flooding and lessens the need for any extra drainage. .
What Are the Downsides of Decomposed Granite Driveways?
There are many downsides to using unstabilized decomposed granite for a driveway. Without proper stabilization, it is not quite as permeable. It will still drain liquid, but at a much slower rate than if the driveway were to be excavated and stabilized with pavers. Also, it actually encourages weed growth if laid over plain grass.
The answer to the question “is decomposed granite good for driveways?” depends on how it’s installed. For instance, the lifespan of unstabilized crushed granite is much shorter than it is when installed with stabilizing pavers. Without stabilization, the decomposed granite will both spread and rut or becoe so hard over time that it becomes impermeable and doesn’t drain.Rain, snow, UV rays, and traffic will wreak havoc on loose granite if it is laid without pavers.
Loose granite will also spread easily. Not only does it turn to dust before long, it spreads and migrates out of your driveway area. This can lead to ruts, bare spots, and puddles developing in your driveway. All of these issues can be avoided with pavers.
What’s the Best Way to Use Decomposed Granite in a Driveway?
Using pavers to stabilize your decomposed granite is the only way to build a long-lasting, functional driveway. TRUEGRID, for instance, makes products such as TRUEGRID PRO LITE and TRUEGRID PRO PLUS, which can both be used to effectively stabilize granite and allow it to perform at its highest potential.
The installation process for both paving systems is incredibly simple. First, the driveway area is excavated to a depth of 6 to 12 inches depending on drainage requirements and a filter fabric is laid at the bottom to prevent gravel migration into the soil as well as block weed growth from below. Next, the excavation is filled with gravel which is then compacted with a heavy roller.
Afterward, the interlocking permeable pavers are snapped together like LEGO blocks over the top of the level pit. Then, decomposed granite is poured into the top of the pavers and pressed into the empty cells with a vehicle or heavy roller. This weighs the pavers down and prevents them from shifting, while also providing a level surface to drive on.
TRUEGRID permeable pavers are eco-friendly, and are made from 100%-recycled plastic. They are durable enough to last over 60 years. They require very minimal maintenance and can easily drain extremely heavy rainfall without any issues.
Stabilize Your Decomposed Granite the Right Way with TRUEGRID
TRUEGRID permeable plastic pavers are the best option for building a durable, functional, and beautiful driveway out of decomposed granite. They eliminate nearly all of the downsides of unstabilized loose granite, allowing you to enjoy the crushed granite without worrying about ruts, spreading, or flooding.
Permeable pavers from TRUEGRID are one of the most eco-friendly paving materials on the planet. If you want to build a crushed granite driveway of the highest quality, make sure to call TRUEGRID today to get in contact with a dedicated pavement professional.
