There are a lot of considerations when you’re planning a driveway. Access, materials, maintenance, maybe even planning permission. But one of the most important elements is often dealt with as an afterthought – the sub-base. Providing a stable foundation, the sub-base is a vital part of any driveway construction. Let’s have a look at why.
Four Ways Your Sub-base Helps Your Driveway to Last Longer
Weight distribution
The primary role of a sub-base is to support even weight distribution across the driveway. The benefit of this is that it stops the surface material from being displaced. Whether through settling, sinking, or sliding to the side. While the use of Gravelrings also helps avoid the loss of surface material, they still need a strong sub-base for weight distribution.
Environmental durability
All landscaping materials have a lot to deal with. The problem with driveways is that while they’re having to deal with all kinds of weather – heavy rain, freezing, thawing, drought – they’re also having to deal with the heavy weight of frequent traffic. A good sub-base provides the drainage and support to allow your driveway to cope with ever-changing conditions.
Rutting
Even in the best of weather, repeated use of a driveway can lead to ruts forming. Particularly in wet weather and thaw conditions. Because the sub-base provides a solid layer that allows for good drainage, it can help to prevent that from happening.
Cost
For many people, adding a sub-base to a driveway can seem like an unnecessary expense. But what they don’t realise is that driveways without a sub-base typically end up costing more. Because over very little time, the gravel will be subsumed into the soil, particularly in wet weather. So, if you save money by skipping on the sub-base, you’ll spend it repeatedly through topping up.
What should you use for a driveway sub-base?
There are three commonly used sub-bases in driveway construction:
MOT 1: Made up of crushed granite, gritstone, limestone, and/or basalt, crushed to 40mm particles. It is easily compactable and favoured in heavy traffic areas.
MOT 3: This is a lighter sub-base consisting of larger (40-75mm) particles of pure basalt, limestone, or granite. It is frequently used in driveways and under patios. It provides a more permeable solution, but isn’t great for heavy traffic.
Bound sub-base: Created with a binder to hold the stone particles together, bound sub-bases are typically very strong. But they are also more expensive.
The sub-base you choose for your driveway can materially impact its durability. So, research your conditions and choose wisely.
Are you looking for driveway solutions for your home? Get in touch with Beauxfort.
