Hurricanes are destructive. There is no doubt about that. They can ruin houses, roads, and driveways you rely on everyday. If you have a gravel road or driveway, you know how frustrating it is to deal with ruts, washouts, and scattered gravel after a storm. Your driveway is an important part of your property, so it’s important to protect.

Luckily, there are ways to reinforce gravel surfaces, making them stronger and more resistant to storms. BaseCore’s geocell technology is an effective way to safeguard your gravel driveway and roads.

Assessing the Damage After a Hurricane

It’s important to take the time to assess the damage fully before you start repairs. There are several ways in which hurricanes can cause problems to your gravel roads and driveways. 

Erosion and gravel displacement are common after big storms. Water can carry away gravel and leave bare spots and uneven surfaces. Heavy rain combined with vehicle traffic can create deep potholes and ruts, making it hard to drive on. Washouts can leave gaps where gravel has been swept away.

Drainage and water pooling can also be an issue. Poor drainage can cause water to collect, which weakens the surface and leads to more erosion.

Taking note of your damaged gravel areas will help to determine where repairs are needed. It also helps to document the damage if you’re hiring a contractor for repairs. Either way, BaseCore will be able to help your situation going forward.

Improving Drainage Systems

Proper drainage is key to keeping your gravel roads and driveways in good shape. Without it, water can sit on the surface, causing erosion and washouts. Fixing your drainage system can reduce future damage and keep your driveway strong and protected.

There are lots of ways to improve your driveways drainage, but one of the easiest and most effective is with BaseCore geocell.

Reinforcing Your Gravel Driveway with Geocells

The next step in getting your driveway back into shape after a storm, is by reinforcing your gravel to protect from future storms. Geocell technology from BaseCore is one of the best ways to stabilize and protect your driveway from erosion and washouts.

Geocells are grid-like structures made from weather-resisting materials that distribute intense weight and lateral pressure across any base. These ultrasonically welded cells are constructed for natural climate resistance to withstand even the toughest conditions. 

The perforations between the cells allow for water to pass through, thus eliminating the need for costly drainage systems under your driveway. Here’s why geocells are a solid choice for storm-prone areas. 

  • Erosion Control: Geocells keep the gravel from shifting, even during and after heavy rains.
  • Load Distribution: Weight distribution over the surface will reduce the risk of deep ruts and potholes.
  • Long-Term Durability: Geocells make your driveway stronger, meaning fewer repairs over time.

Installing Geocells for Maximum Protection

Installing geocells is simple, but there are some factors you should consider before. Here’s the basic process:

  • Prepare the Site: Clear any debris and make sure all current drainage systems are working.
  • Lay the Geocell: Expand the cells over the area you want to reinforce. Secure with anchors if needed.
  • Fill the Cells and Compact: Fill the grid with gravel to create a solid surface. Use a tamper or roller to pack the gravel for a strong, even finish.

By reinforcing your driveway with geocells, you’ll make it more storm-resistant and reduce the need for future repairs.

Maintaining Your Reinforced Driveway

Once your driveway is reinforced, regular maintenance will keep it in good condition. Regularly regrading can help gravel from shifting. Regrading will help keep the surface smooth and properly sloped. If any ruts or holes appear after a big storm, filling them quickly can prevent further damage. Also, keep an eye on your drainage systems to make sure they’re working as they should after heavy rainfall.

By using geocells and staying on top of maintenance as needed, you can keep your driveway strong and reduce the need for repairs.

Secure Your Driveway for the Future

Hurricanes are a fact of life in many regions, but the damage they cause doesn’t always have to be so destructive. By inspecting your driveway, improving drainage, and reinforcing it with BaseCore’s geocell technology, you can prevent future washouts and protect your property. Whether you choose to hire a professional or do it yourself, taking the next steps to reinforce your gravel driveway now will save you time, money, and stress later.

For more information on how BaseCore can help you reinforce your gravel driveways, visit our geocell driveways page to learn more. Don’t wait for the next big storm–act now to protect your property.