How to Compact Gravel for a Solid Base in 5 Easy Steps

Picture this: you’ve just added the final touches to your gorgeous gravel driveway, patio, or path. Everything looks great, but a few months later, the gravel starts to shift or sink. Annoying, right? A stable gravel surface should stand the test of time, and it can, with the proper compaction techniques. Properly compacting gravel is an integral step in helping prevent problems and keeping the surface lasting for years.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to compact gravel for a solid base in 5 easy steps. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a pro, you’ll find clear, practical advice to get your gravel compacted right from the start. Keep your eyes peeled, and let’s get your project sorted the Wright Way!

Step 1. Prepare the Site

Proper site preparation is the first and most crucial step in creating a solid gravel base. To start, clear the area of grass, weeds, and debris; this ensures a clean surface for your gravel to sit on. If you’re working on a larger area, you may need to dig out 100–150mm of soil to make space for the sub-base and gravel layers.

Pro Tip: Think of this like clearing a blank canvas. Use a measuring tape or spray paint to mark the area, ensuring it’s large enough to accommodate vehicles (for driveways) or foot traffic (for patios).

Once the space is clear, check for any obstacles, such as tree roots or rocks, that may be present. These might affect the compaction process. Getting this step right saves you from uneven compaction and shifting gravel later on. After all, a little prep now goes a long way!

Step 2. Lay the Sub-Base Material

The sub-base is the foundation of your gravel surface. For the best results, we recommend using MOT Type 1, a high-quality, compactable aggregate. This material creates a strong support, keeping your gravel in place, even when vehicles or people walk on it.

Spread the MOT Type 1 in 50–75mm layers, compacting each layer thoroughly with a wacker plate or garden roller. It’s vital to compact in layers because compacting too much at once will only settle the top layer, leaving the rest loose and unstable.

Once the first layer is compacted, check for any uneven areas and smooth them out to ensure a uniform surface. The sub-base should be level, with a slight camber or slope away from your home or structure to provide water runoff. This keeps your gravel base stable and prevents future erosion.

Step 3. Choose the Right Gravel for Compaction

The right gravel is crucial for creating a stable and long-lasting surface. For driveways and patios, angular gravel is the best choice. Gravel sizes from 14mm to 20mm are perfect for compaction. They fit together nicely, forming a stable base that won’t move under pressure.

Avoid using pea gravel or rounded stones, as they don’t compact effectively and can shift easily underfoot or when driven over. Instead, opt for materials such as limestone, granite, or basalt. These angular stones are tough and interlock to form a solid base.

Tip: If you’re unsure about which gravel to choose, don’t hesitate to contact the team here at Wright Readymix. We offer expert advice on the best materials for your project, ensuring you select the right gravel for the job.

Step 4. Compact the Gravel

Proper compaction is the most important step in creating a stable gravel base. If you don’t compact the gravel properly, the surface will shift, sink, and eventually fail. The key is to use a wacker plate (or plate compactor) to settle the gravel evenly into place. We touch on this in our blog, How to Use Bulk Bag Gravel for Driveways to Help Curb Appeal, but here’s the simplified take.

How to properly compact:

1. Start at one edge and work your way across the surface, moving in straight lines.
2. Make overlapping passes (around 30%) to ensure even compaction across the area.
3. Move slowly and steadily. The compactor needs time to vibrate and settle the gravel. Rushing can lead to uneven compaction.

If you’re working on a sloped area, consider using gravel grids to stabilise the surface. These grids lock the gravel in place, preventing it from shifting down the slope, especially in areas with steep gradients.

Pro Tip: Make sure to cover the entire surface. Focus on the edges and corners, as they are more likely to shift if not compacted properly.

Step 5. Check for Soft Spots and Re-Compact

Once the gravel is compacted, it’s time to check for soft spots. Walk the surface and check for any uneven or springy areas. These are typically places that don’t settle properly and need a little more attention.

Re-compaction tips:

• Focus on edges and corners, as these areas often shift or sink first.
• Re-run the wacker plate over soft spots to compact them further.
• If needed, add a bit more gravel to any low areas and re-compact for an even, stable finish.
• Once you’ve completed this, your gravel surface should be level, stable, and ready to withstand the elements for years to come.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Compacting Gravel

To ensure your gravel base lasts, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Don’t Compact Too Much at Once: Work in layers (50–75mm) and compact each layer fully. Trying to compact too much at once leads to uneven settling.
• Don’t Skip the Edges: The edges and corners of your driveway or patio are crucial. If they aren’t compacted well, gravel will spill out or shift over time.
• Don’t Rush the Process: It’s tempting to move quickly, but slow, steady compaction is the key to achieving a solid, lasting base.
• Avoid Compacting Wet Gravel: When it’s wet, gravel can smear under the plate compactor. This stops adequate compaction. Slightly damp gravel is ideal.
• Forget to Check for Soft Spots: After compacting, always walk the area and check for soft or springy spots. These need to be re-compacted to prevent future settling and uneven surfaces.

Get a Strong Gravel Base That Lasts

Creating a solid gravel base is essential for a long-lasting and durable surface. Follow these five easy steps to keep your gravel driveway, patio, or pathway stable for years to come. To recap, start with proper site preparation. Then, lay the sub-base, select the appropriate gravel, and employ effective compaction techniques.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your gravel project, contact Wright Readymix for expert advice and a free quote. We supply high-quality aggregates, such as MOT Type 1 and decorative gravel. These are ideal for compacting and forming a durable base. Whether you’re a DIYer or a pro, we’ve got everything you need to get the job done wright.

Call us today at 0117 958 2090 or get a free quote online.