Gravel Laying in Exeter
Professional gravel laying services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£30-50/sqm
Typical Duration
1-2 days
Location
Exeter, Devon
Professional gravel laying for driveways, paths, and garden areas. Proper ground prep, membrane, edging, and even spreading - so it looks good and stays put.
More Than Just Dumping Gravel
There's a right way and a wrong way to lay gravel. The wrong way is dumping it on soil and hoping for the best. The right way involves ground preparation, weed membrane, edging, and proper compaction. We do it the right way.
What We Do
- Ground preparation - level, compact, and ready for membrane
- Weed membrane - heavy-duty, overlapped properly
- Edging installation - metal, timber, or masonry to contain gravel
- Gravel spreading - even depth, properly raked and compacted
- Drainage considerations - slight falls to prevent pooling
💡 Pro tip: Choose angular gravel (like 10mm or 20mm shingle) rather than pea gravel for driveways - it locks together better under vehicle weight and doesn't roll around as much underfoot.
Done Right vs Done Wrong
| ✅ Done Right | ❌ Done Wrong |
|---|---|
| Weed membrane laid with overlaps | No membrane - weeds everywhere |
| Edging to contain gravel | Gravel spreads into lawn/beds |
| Even 50mm+ depth throughout | Thin patches showing membrane |
| Compacted sub-base if needed | Gravel sinks into soft ground |
Why Choose Us for Gravel Laying in Exeter?
Proper ground preparation
Membrane and edging included
Even depth throughout
All waste removed
What to Expect
Step 1: Site Assessment We measure the area, check levels and drainage, discuss edging options and gravel type. Quote provided for materials and labour.
Step 2: Ground Prep Clear the area, level if needed, compact the base, install any edging. Lay weed membrane with proper overlaps.
Step 3: Gravel Installation Spread gravel evenly, rake to consistent depth, compact if it's a driveway. Final rake and tidy, remove all waste.
🔧 DIY Tips
🔧 Tools Needed
- Spade and rake
- Wheelbarrow
- Tamping tool or plate compactor
- Knife for cutting membrane
- Spirit level
📐 Steps
- Mark out area and remove turf/soil to depth
- Level and compact the base thoroughly
- Install edging - secure firmly
- Lay membrane with 150mm overlaps at joints
- Spread gravel evenly, aim for 50mm depth
- Rake smooth and compact (especially driveways)
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Not compacting the base - gravel sinks unevenly
- Membrane gaps - weeds find them
- Too shallow - membrane shows through
- No edging - gravel spreads everywhere within months
💡 Pro Trick
When spreading gravel, work backwards so you're not walking on freshly raked areas. And slightly overfill near edges where it tends to get kicked away over time.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
Combines Well With:
- Membrane Laying - if doing it in stages
- Garden clearance and levelling
- Fence installation along boundaries
Related Services:
- Lawn Mowing - for the grass you're keeping
- Hedge Trimming - garden maintenance
Best Time: Any time in dry weather. Avoid laying in heavy rain - makes ground prep difficult and gravel messy to work with.
Maintenance: Top up thin areas every few years, rake occasionally to keep even, treat any weeds that appear through joins in membrane.
Planning Ahead: If you're considering paving or decking in future, mention it - we can prepare edges to make future work easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need membrane under gravel?
Yes, definitely. Membrane stops weeds growing through and prevents gravel mixing with soil underneath. We always lay proper weed-suppressing membrane before adding gravel - it makes a huge difference long-term.
How deep should gravel be?
For paths and decorative areas, 40-50mm is ideal. For driveways that take car weight, you want 50-75mm. We'll advise on the right depth for your specific use and supply enough to achieve it properly.
What about edging to stop gravel spreading?
Edging is essential unless you want gravel migrating into your lawn. We can install metal edging strips, timber boards, or brick/block edging depending on your preference and budget. It keeps everything neat and contained.
How much will I need?
It depends on area and depth. As a rough guide, 1 bulk bag covers about 8-10 square metres at 50mm deep. We'll measure your space and quote exactly how much you need plus a bit extra for settling.
Gravel Laying Also Available In:
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01392 964094Request Online QuoteOur Rates
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