Gravel stabilising grids are honeycomb or square-cell panels, usually made from recycled polypropylene or HDPE, often with a geotextile backing bonded underneath. They clip together over the prepared sub-base and are filled and then covered with a thin layer of gravel, typically around 5mm to 10mm above the top of the cells, so the grid is hidden but still holding the stones in place.
The cells stop the sideways movement that causes ruts, bald patches and gravel creeping down slopes or out onto the road. That makes the surface firmer and more even underfoot, which is why grids are a common choice for accessibility and for drives that meet a footway. They do not replace a proper base: a grid laid on soft or uncompacted ground will still sink.
What is included
- Excavation and disposal of spoil to the agreed depth
- Compacted crushed-stone sub-base sized for the vehicles using the drive
- A levelling course of fine stone where the grid system requires one
- Grid panels laid, clipped together and cut around edges and ironworks
- Firm edging to stop the grid field moving at the perimeter
- Cells filled with angular gravel of a size suited to the cell depth
- A thin covering layer of gravel to hide the grid
Who it is for
- Sloping drives where loose gravel drifts downhill
- Drives used by several cars every day, including turning areas
- Drives next to a pavement where spilled stone is a nuisance or a council concern
- Homes with wheelchair, walking frame, buggy or bike users
- Owners who want less raking and fewer top-ups
How much does it cost?
As a guide, gravel grids add about £20 to £50 per square metre to a gravel driveway, so a full grid drive is often around £60 to £150 per square metre installed depending on the base work and gravel chosen. See our full cost guide.
