Gravel Driveway Installation & Driveway Repair in North Alabama
Strong, Long-Lasting Gravel Driveways Built for Homes, Farms & Businesses
A professionally built gravel driveway not only improves the look of your property—it also increases durability, drainage, and long-term usability. At Bama Dirt, we install and repair gravel driveways using high-quality aggregate materials, proper base preparation, and the correct compaction methods to ensure a smooth, long-lasting surface. Whether you’re building a brand-new driveway or refreshing an existing one, we offer reliable, affordable solutions across North Alabama, Southern Tennessee, and Northwest Georgia.Why Choose Bama Dirt for Your Driveway
| 1 Built the Right Way We use proper base materials, grading, and compaction to ensure your driveway is stable, durable, and resistant to washouts and rutting. |
2 High-Quality Materials From crusher run to #57 stone, we install only the best aggregates to improve strength, drainage, and long-term performance. |
3 Expertise You Can Trust We understand North Alabama’s soil, terrain, and weather conditions, allowing us to build driveways that hold up year-round. |
| 4 Professional Equipment Whether you need tailgate spreading, tractor work, or Bobcat finishing, we bring the right equipment for a clean, even result. |
5 Fast, Reliable Service We show up when scheduled, complete work efficiently, and treat your property with care so your project stays on track. |
6 Affordable Solutions From simple driveway refreshes to full installations, we offer options that fit your needs without sacrificing quality. |
Types of Driveway Services We Offer
New Driveway Gravel Installation
We build driveways from the ground up using the proper base material and grading techniques for your property. This includes:
- Removing unwanted vegetation or old material
- Smoothing and grading the foundation
- Adding chert or fill dirt if needed for elevation
- Installing a solid base layer of ¾” or 1.5” crusher run
- Compacting the base for strength
- Adding a finishing layer of #57 stone or your preferred gravel type
Gravel Driveway Repairs & Refreshing
Over time, gravel driveways can form ruts, potholes, or low areas. We repair and restore them by:- Adding new crusher run where needed
- Filling holes or low areas with compactable material
- Regrading the surface to correct slope and drainage
- Spreading additional gravel for a clean, refreshed finish
Driveway Drainage Solutions
Many driveway problems start with drainage issues. To fix this, we can:- Add slope for water runoff
- Install, replace, or repair culverts
- Redirect water away from soft or low areas
- Use #57 stone to improve water flow
Driveway Widening & Extensions
If you need additional parking space, easier vehicle access, or a wider turning area, we can expand your existing driveway or extend it to another location on your property. Our team evaluates the grade, soil conditions, and drainage to ensure the new section integrates properly with the old. We use matching materials—such as crusher run, #57 stone, or chert base—to create a seamless transition that looks uniform and performs just as well as the original driveway. Whether you’re accommodating multiple vehicles, adding trailer space, improving your RV or boat access, or connecting a new structure like a shop or barn, we build driveway additions that are stable, functional, and built to last.Tailgate Spreading for Quick Driveway Refresh
Our dump trucks can tailgate spread gravel evenly over long runs. This is ideal when:
- You’re refreshing an existing driveway
- You want a fast, budget-friendly spreading option
- The driveway is straight or gently curved
Best Gravel Materials for Driveways
¾" Crusher Run
Excellent base material that compacts tightly to form a strong, stable foundation. Ideal for new driveway construction, repairing soft spots, and creating a firm surface that resists rutting and washouts over time.1.5" Crusher Run
A heavier-duty base layer used when deeper support is needed. Works well for raising low areas, stabilizing soft or muddy ground, and building a thicker foundation that can handle heavier vehicle traffic.#57 Stone
A clean, angular drainage gravel used as a finishing layer on top of a compacted base. Helps water flow through the driveway surface, reduces erosion, and provides a clean, attractive appearance with excellent traction.Chert Fill
A cost-effective material used for elevating driveways and building pad bases before applying gravel. Compacts firmly when dry, making it ideal for raising low sections and creating a stable foundation under the finished driveway.Driveway Add-Ons & Related Services
Culvert Installation
Install or replace culverts to improve driveway drainage and prevent washouts.Erosion Control
Rip rap, slope stabilization, and drainage solutions to protect your driveway.Parking Pads
Gravel parking areas for cars, RVs, trailers, and equipment with proper grading.Chert & Dirt Build-Up
Raise low sections, level uneven ground, and build a stable base under your driveway.Yard Leveling
Smooth uneven areas around your driveway and improve drainage and usability.Gravel Driveway FAQs
How thick should a gravel driveway be for long-term durability?
A properly built gravel driveway should have 4–6 inches of compactable base material such as crusher run, followed by a 1–2 inch top layer of #57 stone or your preferred finishing gravel. The exact depth depends on soil conditions, slope, and how much traffic the driveway will experience. Our team evaluates your property to ensure the correct thickness and compaction for long-lasting performance.
What type of gravel is best for a new driveway?
For most driveways, ¾” Crusher Run is the best base material because it compacts extremely well. For softer ground or deeper foundations, 1.5” Crusher Run may be recommended. To improve drainage and reduce washouts, we often finish with #57 stone. Each material plays a unique role, and we help you choose the right combination for your driveway.
How long does it take to install or repair a gravel driveway?
Most residential driveways can be completed in one day, depending on length, grading requirements, and site access. Larger or more complex projects—such as those involving drainage correction, culvert installation, or elevation build-up—may take a little longer, but we always complete projects efficiently and on schedule.
Do I need a culvert for my driveway?
If your driveway crosses a ditch, drainage path, or area where water flows during heavy rain, then yes—installing a culvert is strongly recommended. A properly sized culvert prevents washouts, erosion, rutting, and repeated damage to your driveway. We install, replace, and repair culverts as part of our driveway services.
Can you widen or extend my existing driveway?
Absolutely. We can widen your driveway for additional parking or extend it to another area of your property. We match the existing driveway’s materials, thickness, slope, and gravel type to ensure a seamless look and consistent performance. This is perfect for homeowners adding shops, barns, RV parking, or extra vehicles.
How often should I refresh or top-dress my driveway?
Most gravel driveways benefit from a refresh every 1–3 years, depending on traffic, weather, and soil conditions. Driveway refreshes may include adding new gravel, filling low areas, correcting drainage, and regrading the surface. Regular maintenance helps prevent potholes and ruts before they develop.
Will your trucks damage my concrete or asphalt driveway?
No. Our trucks are single-axle, about the width of an F-350 dually pickup, making them safe for most residential driveways. They are significantly lighter than large tri-axle dump trucks used elsewhere, meaning you don’t have to worry about cracking concrete or damaging asphalt.
Can you spread the gravel for me during delivery?
Yes. For many driveways, we can tailgate spread the gravel directly from the truck, which distributes it evenly as we drive forward. For more precise grading or leveling, we also offer tractor or Bobcat spreading. This saves you time, labor, and hassle compared to hand-spreading.
What causes potholes and ruts in gravel driveways?
Common causes include improper drainage, insufficient base depth, poor compaction, and normal wear over time. Heavy rain and vehicle traffic can push water into soft spots, creating dips that worsen into potholes. We address the root cause—usually drainage or base issues—to repair the driveway correctly and prevent future problems.
Do I need to remove my old driveway before installing a new one?
Not always. If the existing driveway still has stable materials underneath, we can often regrade, rebuild the base, and add new gravel layers without full removal. In cases where the foundation is too soft or uneven, we may recommend adding chert or fill dirt to rebuild the base properly. We’ll assess your driveway and give you the most cost-effective option.
Start Your Driveway Project With a Team That Does It Right
A well-built driveway starts with proper grading, drainage, and the right base materials. Whether you're installing a brand-new drive or restoring an old one, our experienced crew ensures long-term durability and a clean, professional finish. Tell us what you need, and we’ll take it from here.Get Your Driveway Estimate
