DRIVERS can use a simple technique to keep gravel driveways clean — you only need some elbow grease and a quick trip to Walmart.
Cleaning experts have revealed the $20 secret to stop pesky weeds from making your driveway ugly and uneven.
You can maintain your gravel driveway with a rake and a few other gardening items (stock image)[/caption]
Weeds grow more in gravel driveways if there’s a build up of dirt and debris (stock image)[/caption]
A six-step raking method can help maintain the entrance to your home, but it requires a special tool to get dirt out of your driveway.
But before purchasing the item, you can start cleaning up by scraping away loose leaves and debris, according to RSVP Live.
“You can use a leaf blower or leaf vacuum for this, but if you don’t own one, a rake will do the trick,” cleaning expert Matthew Harrison told the outlet.
It’s best to use a lightweight rake to clear away dirt without digging into the gravel driveway.
When leaves get wet or start to decompose, they can stick to the gravel.
But by regularly raking leaves from your driveway, they can gather much more easily.
Next, put on gardening gloves and get rid of weeds poking through the small stones.
If you can’t pull out weeds by their roots, try using weed killer.
A three-part homemade solution of vinegar, salt, and dish soap can also get rid of the annoying plants.
Next, get to Walmart or Home Depot to get a gardening sieve.
A mesh garden sieve helps filter out dirt from gravel.
Walmart has lots of garden sieves available for purchase, and the WENSES Soil Sifter is just $19.99.
The 12 x 10 tool also comes with work gloves.
Dirt and debris building up between the gravel encourages weeds to grow in your driveway, Harrison explained.
WHEN TO REDO DRIVEWAY PAVEMENT
Here are the classic signs a driveway needs a refresh…
Pavement driveways are supposed to last around 20 years.
However, leaking motor oil, harsh temperatures, heavy rainfall, or big cars may break down the pavement’s strength.
Look out for these classic signs:
- Small cracks that don’t connect
- Potholes
- Sunken spots
- Lightened color
- Edges breaking off
Some driveway repairs may just need a quick resurface. Unresolved issues may require a complete repavement.
Most fixes will cost drivers between $1 and $3 a square foot.
Source: Budget Dumpsters.
“To reduce unwanted growth, you want to remove as much soil as possible from the gravel,” he said.
Simply scoop up your gravel and sift the dirt out over a wheelbarrow.
Then, you can use the driveway dirt for your garden or compost heap instead.
Once you’ve finished sifting the dirt, rake your gravel through to make sure it’s even.
Next, hose down your driveway to clear remaining dirt away from your rocks.
“Use gentle pressure and spray to avoid disturbing the stones,” Harrison said, adding that using a mild cleaner can help remove stains.
If you have a driveway in the shade, you can use a cleaner that kills moss.
However, don’t use a pressure washer on your gravel driveway because that could throw your stones everywhere and force you to sweep and rake even more.
Finally, if your driveway is looking sparse, rake in some new stones to top your driveway.
