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Signs Your Driveway Needs Repair – And How to Fix It

A gravel driveway is a durable and cost-effective solution for homeowners, but like any surface, it requires maintenance to stay in good condition. Over time, weather, traffic, and water runoff can lead to potholes, ruts, erosion, and drainage problems, making your driveway rough to drive on and more prone to damage. Knowing the signs of a driveway that needs repair can help you fix issues before they become costly problems.

Common Signs Your Gravel Driveway Needs Repair

1. Potholes and Deep Ruts

Potholes form when water collects in weak spots and softens the ground underneath. Over time, traffic worsens the issue, creating large holes that can damage vehicles and make driving uncomfortable. Deep ruts are caused by repeated tire tracks and indicate that the gravel is not properly compacted or draining well.

Fix: Fill potholes with fresh gravel, compact the area, and regrade the driveway to promote proper water runoff.

2. Water Pooling or Erosion

If you notice puddles forming in certain areas or gravel washing away after rain, your driveway likely has a drainage issue. Water should flow off the surface instead of collecting in low spots, which can weaken the driveway base and lead to major erosion over time.

Fix: Regrade the driveway with the correct slope to direct water away. Installing a French drain, culvert, or additional gravel can also help improve drainage.

3. Loose or Thinning Gravel

Over time, gravel gets displaced due to weather and vehicle movement. If you start seeing more exposed soil or if the driveway surface feels uneven, it’s time to add a fresh layer of gravel.

Fix: Spread new gravel evenly and use a compactor to pack it down, creating a stable, long-lasting surface.

4. Grass and Weeds Growing Through the Driveway

Weeds pushing through the gravel can make your driveway look unkempt and weaken the structure by breaking up the compacted surface. This is often a sign that the driveway needs fresh gravel or a weed barrier.

Fix: Apply a weed killer or manually remove weeds before adding a new layer of compacted gravel. A geotextile fabricunderneath the gravel can help prevent future growth.

5. Uneven Surface or Washboarding

Washboarding refers to a series of ridges and dips that develop from repeated vehicle use. This can make driving bumpy and uncomfortable, especially at higher speeds.

Fix: The best solution is to regrade the driveway and properly compact the surface to create a smoother driving experience.

How to Prevent Driveway Damage

• Regular Maintenance: Raking and redistributing gravel can help prevent low spots and washouts.

• Proper Drainage: Ensure your driveway has a slope or culvert to direct water away.

• Annual Gravel Refresh: Adding new gravel and compacting it yearly extends the driveway’s life.

• Timely Repairs: Address small issues before they become major problems.

Need Professional Driveway Repair? We Can Help!

If your gravel driveway is showing signs of wear, Landis Excavation offers professional driveway repair, resurfacing, and drainage solutions throughout central Vermont. Whether you need pothole repairs, regrading, or a full gravel replacement, we ensure your driveway stays smooth, durable, and ready for any season.

📞 Call us today for a free estimate!