gravelising

Gravelising is a civil engineering and landscaping technique that involves applying a layer of gravel or crushed stone over a desired surface. The primary goal is to improve drainage, reduce soil erosion, stabilize the ground, and provide a more uniform texture for subsequent treatments. In road maintenance, gravelising is employed as a fast, low‑cost alternative to full resurfacing. A thin gravel layer is spread over a damaged asphalt base, compacted, and sealed with a thin layer of asphalt or a polymer binder. The result is a functional surface that is easier to maintain, with lower traffic noise and improved skid resistance.

The method originated in the mid‑20th century in Europe, where it was initially applied to farmland to protect contour plowed edges from erosion. From there it spread to rural road networks, where the rough surface of gravelised roads proved beneficial for livestock access and reduced dust levels. In the United States and Canada, gravelising gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s as a temporary measure for rural roads that could not justify full pavement renewal.

Typical steps include: clearing vegetation and debris; leveling the base; laying a geotextile fabric to separate the gravel layer from the sub‑soil; spreading a gravel blanket that is 10–15 cm thick; mechanically compacting the surface; and optionally sealing it with an elastomeric coat or a thin binder. The chosen gravel grain size usually ranges from 5 to 20 mm to balance filtration, stability, and durability.

Advantages of gravelising include rapid deployment, reduced construction time, lower cost, and allowing gradual transition to higher‑quality surfaces if required. Disadvantages include a higher short‑term maintenance need, potential for stone displacement under heavy traffic, and less aesthetic appeal compared to paved roads. Gravelising remains a widely used technique in many rural regions and as a temporary solution for emergency road repairs.