Porcelain Driveway and Walkway Pavers Supplied & Installed | Long Island NY

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Are you looking to upgrade your outdoor space and create a stunning hardscape that combines style, durability, and versatility? Porcelain pavers are the perfect solution. Due to their numerous benefits and striking aesthetics, porcelain pavers are gaining popularity in outdoor design.

Here at Gappsi, we genuinely care about your project. Regardless if you’re interested in porcelain pavers for your driveway or patio, we want you to fall in love with them. We take the time to understand your project goals and aesthetic preferences. Our team never steers you wrong; we want you to trust us to help you make the right choice.

Why Porcelain Pavers Are the Perfect Solution

While beautiful, natural stone has steadily risen in cost, making it nearly impossible to use to update your driveway, patio, pool deck, or other outdoor space. Porcelain pavers are the perfect solution.

porcelain-driveway-and-walkway-pavers1Due to their composition, porcelain pavers can match classic natural stone options and exotic wood paneling in appearance and texture. Today, we can offer you a robust collection of wood and natural stone that guarantees your home will benefit from our porcelain driveway, patio, and pool deck pavers.

Whereas traditional paver materials such as concrete have long since been one of the more sought-after materials due to their cost and general accessibility, porcelain pavers supersede it in every way. Whether it be driveway porcelain pavers or porcelain pavers for pool decks and patios, Gappsi pavers offer a wealth of benefits including, but not limited to:

  • Tremendous Durability
  • Resistance To Stains, Fading, Slipping, & Moisture
  • Little To No Maintenance
  • Unbeatable Aesthetic Enhancements

Porcelain pavers offer an attractive alternative to clay brick and concrete paving. The pavers will need to be laid over a prepared concrete base, but one of the significant advantages is that you’ll have an unmatched range of colors. Plus, porcelain pavers are exceptionally resistant to staining, even from oil and grease, and are not subject to freeze/thaw cracking in cold climates, like concrete pavers.

porcelain-driveway-and-walkway-pavers2Why Choose Porcelain Pavers from the Gappsi Porcelain and Natural Stone Collection

Porcelain pavers are popular for outdoor paving because they offer many advantages over other materials, such as concrete or natural stone. They are durable and require far less maintenance while resisting weather-related damage and aesthetic wear. Their superior lifespan and minimal maintenance make them an innovative, cost-effective choice for residential and commercial applications.

  • Durability: Porcelain pavers withstand freeze-thaw cycles, fire, and thermal shock. They can also support more than 2,200 pounds per slab. They are extremely durable and resistant to cracks.
  • Low maintenance: Porcelain pavers are non-porous and require little maintenance. They don’t need to be sealed and can be cleaned with a damp cloth.
  • Stain resistant: Porcelain pavers are resistant to stains, mold, and mildew. They also don’t show efflorescence, a salt coating that can form on porous materials.
  • UV resistant: Porcelain pavers are UV resistant and won’t fade over time.
  • Cost: Porcelain pavers can be cheaper than natural stone or wood.
  • Variety: Porcelain pavers come in many colors, finishes, and textures. Thanks to their many different colors, patterns, and finishes, porcelain pavers offer a wide variety of design options. Depending on your preferences, they can be used to create an elegant, modern look or a rustic, natural feel.
  • Slip-resistant: Porcelain pavers can have a slip-resistant surface, making them ideal for pool decks and walkways.
  • Heat-resistant: Porcelain pavers are heat resistant and do not get hot in the sun.
  • Versatile: Porcelain pavers are a good solution for overlay applications.
  • Environmental Impact: If you want to reduce your footprints, opt for porcelain pavers. They are fully recyclable and have minimal environmental impact. With porcelain, you can contribute to creating an environmentally friendly outdoor space.

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porcelain-driveway-and-walkway-pavers6Porcelain Driveway and Walkway Pavers Supplied & Installed | Long Island, NY

For this project, we are redesigning the driveway and front walkway. We replaced the driveway with porcelain pavers in sizes 8×8, 4×8, and 4×4. The porcelain pavers are finished to look like an old porphyry stone.  Porphyry stones are desirable for their durability, extreme pressure and chemical attack resistance, non-slip properties, and color variety. They are considered an extrusive equivalent to Granite and are among the safest building surfaces.

The new porcelain pavers will look very nice with this old-style home. It will be one of the few porcelain paver driveways installed on Long Island, NY, and the finished product will be very beautiful and impressive.

We utilized porcelain pavers that were two inches thick and porphyry in color. This porcelain has a rustic finish resembling a natural stone and is in three different size combinations: 8×8, 4×4, and 4×8, all two inches thick.

porcelain-driveway-and-walkway-pavers8Belgian Natural Stone

We utilized Belgian pavers selected from the Gappsi Natural Stone Collection for the border. The Belgian pavers are grayish limestone split-faced and tumbled. They are rich silver, and the borders are many shades of gray. We also outlined the edges of the steps and the risers. This stone combination fits perfectly with the house’s style and color.

This is the latest porcelain driveway paver installation supplied and installed by Gappsi in Rockville Center, Long Island, NY.

Whether you can visit our porcelain paver showrooms in person or tour our virtual showroom, you’ll immediately see what separates us from other porcelain paver suppliers: we’re here to make a difference. Gappsi products are designed to make an impact both in their production and application. We strive to provide you with a wealth of knowledge so you can be well-informed in your decision and be happy with your new home exterior for decades to come. If you’re interested in porcelain pavers for your home, look no further than Gappsi.

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How to Correct a Poor Application of Driveway Sealer on Paving Stones | Long-Island NY

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 How-to-Strip-and-Remove-Paver-Sealer-Long-Island-NY Before and AfterCan a poor application of driveway sealer be corrected?  Depending on the severity of the problem, it may require saturation, aggressive scrubbing, and repeated applications to re-emulsify the sealer.

If you’ve ever seen some pavers that have turned white after being sealed, the white haze or film you see is trapped moisture. “Whiting” as it is called in our industry, is not to be confused with concrete efflorescence, which can cause white-looking pavers to happen at any time, due to natural causes.

1-poor-sealing-job---how-to-strip-and-remove-paver-sealer-long-island-nyWhiting happens when your pavers have been sealed with a xylene or acrylic (solvent-based) sealer or sealed during imperfect weather conditions or application. The trapped moisture is caused by hydrostatic pressure, which brings the moisture up through the pores of the pavers and traps it under the sealer. Once your pavers have “turned white”, there is only one way to rectify the problem. The sealer must be completely stripped off and re-sealed with the correct type of sealer.

2-applying-sealer-stripper_removers---how-to-strip-and-remove-paver-sealer-long-island-nyRemoving and Stripping Old Sealant Off Driveway Pavers

The first step in this job is to strip and remove all the old sealer from the paving stone driveway. Unfortunately, the previous contractor did not complete the job properly the first time. Through time many additional layers of sealer were applied and magnified the patchy poor paver color “whiting” issues.  There are a few different layers of sealer, the latest application seems to be an acrylic sealer.  It gives a shiny look to the stones, the issue over the years has made the problem worse and more noticeable.

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We are applying the sealer remover. It is a stripper. We will finish applying the sealer and let it sit for a few minutes.  Then we start the process of pressure washing it off from the top of the pavers.

We have started removing the sealer. The stripper soaks in and makes it possible to remove the sealant layers. We are using the turbo nozzle with high pressure and hot water.  Then we pressure washed the surface of the pavers with hot water, low pressure.  As we strip the driveway each layer of the old sealer is removed.

3-pressure-washing-stripper-sealer-remover-with-hot-water-pressure-washing-system---how-to-strip-and-remove-paver-sealer-long-island-nyWhat type of sand material fills the joints between pavers?

We add sand to the stone pavers. Then we are in the process of spreading the sand in the joints. We are using white silica sand, which works well with the urethane sealer, it absorbs the sealer and gets very hard. It also is very dry and falls into space very easily. We are compacting the sand with a vibratory roller. The compactor has rolls under it to prevent it from scratching the stones. Then we apply the sand once, vibrate it respread the sand, and vibrate it a second time. We are doing the final touches with the sand. We are blowing the extra sand from the top of the stones without removing it from the joints.

Polymeric sand is best to use to fill the joints in between pavers. High-quality polymeric sand will not leave any stains on the surface. Gappsi vibrates the pavers while sweeping which allows the sand to fill the joints tight and also helps the sand harden. Sweeping the excess sand off the pavers before wetting the sand is also very important. This prevents the glue that is in the sand from smearing the surface of the pavers. Most importantly, applying a good urethane sealer will further help the sand to harden and prevent ants from digging into the paver joints and weeds from growing on patios.

4-reaending-paver-joints-with-silica-sand---how-to-strip-and-remove-paver-sealer-long-island-nyWhat is the best sealer for concrete pavers?

After the sand is vibrated into place in the driveway pavers we apply urethane sealer. It is going to be a HUGE transformation given how extreme this driveway was.

This is the process of the first application of driveway sealer to the pavers. We spray the sealer and allow it to sink into the joints. This will soak into the sand and get hard from the urethane. We use a blower to help the sealer spread uniformly. This coat is a flood coat.  A second layer of sealant is applied primarily to seal the stones. This first coat is absorbed into the sand in between the joints. We apply the second coat of sealer and final which gives the stones the color enhancement. We don’t float the surface of the stones with this coat because the pavers will not absorb as much as the first coat. However, we still have to move the sealer around because it can dry on top of the surface unevenly.

5-applying-first-coat-of-sealer-on-driveway-pavers---how-to-strip-and-remove-paver-sealer-long-island-nyThe sealer creates a very strong bond to the paving stone surface and over the sand particles in between the joints.

There are many manufacturers of sealers, from solvents to acrylic urethane. Epoxies, acrylic, and urethane sealers come in water-based versions and solvent-based versions, including combinations of both. The biggest difference between the two is the VOC content. The sheen and life of the product determine how often it lasts before needing to be reapplied. Solvent-based acrylics tend to yellow over time and don’t allow the concrete to breathe. Epoxies are the strongest sealers but are best used for smoother surfaces and more for indoor or warehouse floor applications.

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6-applying-second-coat-of-sealer---how-to-strip-and-remove-paver-sealer-long-island-nyThe best sealers for paving stones are water-based urethanes

  • They are algae and mold inhibitors
  • Allow for superior joint stabilization,
  • Environmentally safe
  • Their UV Protection will not harm vegetation
  • VOC Compliant in all 50 States.

When you choose Gappsi you can guarantee a well-trained Gappsi personnel will apply correctly the paving stone sealer products achieving the best results.

This driveway was installed over 20 years ago. The paving stones are by Nicolock in the color Bayberry Blend in a 6×9 Rustico and Sante Euro Circle.

7-complete-stripped-and-sealed-driveway--in-whitestone-long-island-nyGappsi brought back the color of the stones to look better than they did when they were originally installed. The colors are very vibrant and uniform now that the sealer is applied correctly. You can see the color variations of the Bayberry Blend, the shades of gray, beige, and peach color even after 20 years.

Surface color enhancement and polymeric sand replacement in between the joints for this paving stones driveway was completed over 24 hours. This is the latest paving stone driveway restoration cleaning and sealing done by Gappsi in Whitestone NY.

To view our Interior Cleaning and Sealing options and to learn more about the application of driveway sealer visit our page Sealing Stone Patios, Driveways, and Interiors Stone.

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View Gappsi’s YouTube Channel for Videos on How to Correct a Poor Application of Driveway Sealer on Paving Stones | Long-Island NY

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How to Clean and Seal Driveways and Patio Stones in 5 Steps

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Do you know how to clean and seal driveways and patio stones? Let the professionals at Gappsi show you the process!  

complete-polymeric-sand-and-sealer-application
Complete Polymeric Sand and Sealer Application – Dix Hills NY

Gappsi cleaning and sealing season for driveways and patio stones has started!   Our first driveway is located in Dix Hills NY. Over 10 years ago Gappsi installed this granite paver driveway and now we are cleaning and sealing it.

STEP #1 Cleaning Driveways and Patio Stones

step-2-removing-sand-and-debris-from-driveway-and-patio-stones
Step 1 Removing All Polymeric Sand and Debris from Paver Joints

First, we clean the granite pavers and remove most of the sand in between the joints.  Our new surface cleaners are also extractors. We wash the surface of the pavers and also remove the old polymeric sand.  Also, the debris that has collected underneath the joints is washed out.

This year Gappsi added a new pressure washing system. The machine is a high volume low-pressure hot water system.  The pressure washing system can go to 250 degrees Fahrenheit in hot water. It also comes with a soft wash system for areas where we don’t need pressure.

Our team started the process of cleaning the pavers. The driveway floor was pretty dirty so we completed a few passes starting with a turbo nozzle.  The initial process is to clean the stones, and then remove the old polymeric sand in between the joints.  This allows the new sand to be put in between the joints.  We are using 200 degrees Fahrenheit of hot water. 

STEP # 2 Removing Sand and Debris From Driveways and Patio Stones

step-1-cleaning-driveway-and-patio-stones
Step-2 Cleaning Driveway and Patio Stones

In the second step, we will clean the entire area with the extractor surface cleaner that will remove any sitting material in between the stone joints.

STEP #3 Applying New Polymeric Sand

step-3-applying-polymeric-sand-to-driveway-and-patio-stones
Step-3 Applying Polymeric Sand to Driveway and Patio Stones

The third step in sealing the pavers is filling the joint space with new polymeric sand.  We are using white beige silica sand.  This sand will absorb the sealer and get extremely hard; harder than polymeric sand.   Using a vibratory compactor specifically made to vibrate sand into the joints.  The Poly sand must be vibrated into the joint, as we want the sand as tight as possible in the paver joint.  The rollers have white rubber rollers specifically made for these kinds of applications and will not scratch or mark the stones.

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STEP #4 Sealing the Driveway Pavers and Patio Stones

Step-4-sealing-the-pavers
Step-4 Sealing the Driveway Pavers and Patio Stones

Step #4 is the process of applying the sealer.  We mix urethane sealer part A and part B in combination with water in a two-to-one solution. We apply the sealer through sprayers flooding the joints.  This allows the sealer to penetrate the sand and absorb it deep down to get hard. Using a blower to move the extra sealer around, we prevent it from settling on top of the stones and further draining into the sand.  Since these are granite pavers, they won’t absorb much of the sealer, but the sand will get very very hard. 

Which Sealer is Right For Your Stones?

Gappsi uses several types of sealers different for each stone type from granite to marble, travertine, or concrete pavers. In addition, there are color enhancers or natural look sealers.  We apply the proper sealer to the different types of stone surfaces or materials based on what is needed. Each stone absorbs differently and each application is different. Whether there is a top coating sealer or a penetrating sealer depends on the customer selection.  Also, we offer suggestions for the type of material we are protecting or enhancing.

STEP #5 Slip Resistant System Application

step-5-applying-slip-resistant-sealer-with-mop-driveway-and-patio-stones
Step-5 Applying Slip-Resistant Sealer with Mop Driveway and Patio Stone Sealing

Step #5 After the team has completed sealing the entire driveway we apply an anti-slip resistance that will be the final process adding one more coat.  This application is applied with a floor mop while the sealer is wet.  The two coats bond together and it adds texture to the surface preventing it from getting slippery. 

The sealing process takes 2 to 3 days to complete allowing time to dry.  We allow the sealer to harden and keep the cars off the paver for about a week. The driveway was designed with granite pavers that are an inch and a quarter thick.  The sealer needs to be hardened a little longer as a result of the paver size.  The sand in between the joints has absorbed all the sealer and it became very hard. The color of the driveway looks like the first day the pavers were installed. The sealer enhancer used brings back the natural original color of the stones. It does not have a shiny look, it is more of a color enhancer. We also used slip resistance mixed with the sealer, this gives better traction when walking on the stones.

This is the latest sealing project done by Gappsi. The original granite installation Gappsi completed was over 10 years ago and the stones were selected from the Gappsi Natural Stone and Porcelain Collection showroom. 

Gappsi provides restoration, cleaning, and sealing of all types of stones and surfaces installed on patios, driveways, and walkways installed outdoors as well as indoors. 

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View Gappsi’s YouTube Channel for Videos of How to Clean and Seal Driveways and Patio Stones in 5 Steps

We serve all of Nassau and Suffolk County Long Island NY, in all the following towns:
NASSAU COUNTY LONG ISLAND

Town of Hempstead Atlantic Beach Baldwin Bellerose Terrace Bellmore Bethpage Cedarhurst East Meadow East Rockaway Elmont Floral Park Franklin Square Freeport Garden City Hempstead Hewlett Inwood Island Park Lawrence Levittown Lynbrook Malverne Merrick Mineola New Hyde Park North Lynbrook North Valley Stream North Woodmere Oceanside Point Lookout Rockville Centre Roosevelt Seaford South Hempstead Uniondale Valley Stream Wantagh West Hempstead Woodmere Town of North Hempstead Albertson Carle Place Floral Park Glenwood Landing Great Neck Greenvale Kings Point Manhasset Mineola New Hyde Park North New Hyde Park Old Westbury Port Washington Roslyn Roslyn Heights Sands Point Westbury Williston Park Town of Oyster Bay Bayville Bethpage Brookville East Norwich Farmingdale Glen Head Glenwood Landing Greenvale Hicksville Jericho Locust Valley Massapequa Massapequa Park Mill Neck Old Bethpage Old Westbury Oyster Bay Plainview Sea Cliff Syosset Woodbury City of Glen Cove City of Long Beach.

SUFFOLK COUNTY LONG ISLAND

Town of Babylon Amityville Babylon Copiague Deer Park Lindenhurst North Amityville North Babylon West Babylon Wyandanch Town of Brookhaven Bellport Blue Point Brookhaven Calverton Centereach Center Moriches Coram East Moriches East Patchogue Eastport East Setauket Farmingville Holbrook Holtsville Lake Grove Manorville Mastic Mastic Beach Medford Middle Island Miller Place Moriches Mount Sinai North Patchogue Patchogue Port Jefferson Port Jefferson Station Ridge Rocky Point Ronkonkoma Selden Shirley Shoreham Sound Beach Stony Brook Upton Wading River Yaphank Town of East Hampton Amagansett East Hampton Montauk Sag Harbor Wainscott Town of Huntington Centerport Cold Spring Harbor

Commack East Northport Greenlawn Huntington Huntington Station Lloyd Harbor Melville Northport Town of Islip Bayport Bay Shore Bohemia Brentwood Brightwaters Central Islip East Islip Great River Hauppauge Holbrook Holtsville Islandia Islip Islip Terrace Oakdale Ocean Beach Ronkonkoma Sayville West Islip West Sayville Town of Riverhead Aquebogue Calverton Jamesport Laurel Manorville Riverhead South Jamesport Wading River Town of Shelter Island Shelter Island Shelter Island Heights Town of Smithtown Commack Hauppauge Kings Park Nesconset Saint James Smithtown Town of Southampton Bridgehampton Eastport East Quogue Hampton Bays Quogue Remsenburg Sagaponack Sag Harbor Southampton Speonk Water Mill Westhampton Westhampton Beach Town of Southold Cutchogue East Marion Fishers Island Greenport Laurel Mattituck New Suffolk Orient Peconic Southold

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Get a Perfect Gravel Driveway with Gravelfix

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gravel-driveways-make-a-big-comeback-with-gravelfix1

Forget everything you think you know about gravel driveways. The old image of a messy, rut-filled path is a thing of the past. Today, contemporary gravel driveways are making a huge comeback, and for good reason. The secret? A stabilization system that solves all the old problems. While unstabilized gravel migrates and creates ruts, a solution like Gravelfix keeps your stones locked in place. This creates a solid, beautiful surface whether you choose a crushed limestone driveway or a crushed rock driveway. You get all the charm without any of the classic headaches.

The benefits of installing gravel driveways using Gravelfix begin with the ease of installation.

Your Style Won’t Suffer

The aesthetic of a gravel driveway is nearly unmatched. Aside from gravel, you can choose from a wide variety of aggregates for your driveway. Limestone, Blackstar, crushed granite, or any type of angular gravel will work. Even if you’re in the middle of the suburbs, this affords you unmatched style, diversity, color choices, and unique charm.

If you want to stand out from the crowd or if your house would look better without an asphalt driveway, there’s no better way to mix it up and introduce some natural beauty to your home than with a gravel driveway.

Gravel driveways offer a unique alternative to traditional asphalt or concrete surfaces. With a variety of shapes, colors, and textures, they can be customized to fit the aesthetic of any home or landscape.

While considering durability, cost, and maintenance plays a significant role in deciding what type of driveway to install, it is essential to understand the pros and cons of laying a gravel driveway.

gravel-driveways-make-a-big-comeback-with-gravelfix2Gravel driveways can be visually appealing, adding a rustic charm to your home’s exterior. They are available in various colors and sizes, allowing you to customize the appearance to complement your property. Additionally, gravel driveways can be relatively easy to install and require less time to complete compared to other driveway materials, like concrete or asphalt.

Key Benefits of a Gravel Driveway

One of the key benefits of gravel driveways is their permeability. Unlike solid surfaces, gravel allows water to drain through, reducing the risk of water pooling or causing flooding. This can be particularly useful if your property is located in an area prone to heavy rainfall or where drainage is a concern.

It’s Time to Make the Switch to a Gravel Driveway Give Gappsi a Call Today @ 631.543.1177

Maintenance for gravel driveways is generally low, requiring only periodic raking to keep the stones in place and ensure a neat appearance. If your driveway develops low spots or potholes, you can simply add more gravel to level the surface. However, over time, you may find the stones displaced by vehicle movement or washed away during heavy rainfall, which eventually requires replenishment.

As with any driveway material, there are some drawbacks to consider. Gravel driveways may not be the best choice for areas that experience extreme weather conditions, as snow removal can be challenging, and ice can cause the gravel to shift.

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PROS of Installing a Gravel Driveway

  • Low Cost
  • Aesthetic Appeal
  • Easy Install
  • Permeability
  • Compacts Well
  • Gravel Can Be Replenished

CONS of Installing a Gravel Driveway

  • Gravel Can Wash Away
  • Difficult to Snowplough
  • Risk of Weeds
  • Noise

gravel-driveways-make-a-big-comeback-with-gravelfix3Choosing The Right Gravel For The Area

When choosing gravel for your driveway or space, it’s essential to consider the size and texture of the rocks. The size and texture of the gravel can significantly affect the appearance, durability, and ease of maintenance.

There are two overarching categories of gravel that each type can be sorted into crushed stone and naturally formed gravel. There are several differences between the two, although they’re easily distinguishable based on appearance. ♦  Crushed stone has a jagged edge due to the manual crushing process. ♦  Naturally formed gravel has a smoother look due to natural weathering over time.

There are various sizes of gravel available, ranging from small pea gravel to larger coarse gravel. Pea gravel, as the name suggests, is the size of peas and is typically smooth in texture. This type of gravel creates a visually appealing driveway surface and is easier on your feet when walking on it. However, pea gravel may not be the best choice for a driveway with a lot of traffic or heavy vehicles, as it can shift and become displaced more easily than larger rocks.

Coarse gravel, on the other hand, is made up of larger rocks with a rougher texture. These rocks are less likely to shift under heavy loads, making coarse gravel a more durable option for driveways with more traffic. Additionally, the rough texture of coarse gravel can provide better traction for vehicles, especially during wet or icy conditions.

Why Invest in Gravelfix on Your Gravel Driveway

Investing in Gravelfix for your driveway comes with a plethora of advantages. To start, Gravelfix effectively stabilizes your driveway surface. There is no need to worry about gravel shifting or sinking, as these mats maintain a flat and uniform surface for you to drive or walk on. Gravelfix reduces the likelihood of tire rut formation, which can be a concern with gravel driveways. By providing a stable foundation a vehicle’s tires move smoothly across the surface without causing unsightly ruts or damaging the driveway. Another notable benefit of having Gravelfix is its effectiveness in preventing weed growth. By acting as a barrier between the gravel and the ground, it prevents invasive weeds from growing through, ensuring your driveway remains low maintenance and visually appealing. gravel-driveways-make-a-big-comeback-with-gravelfix

Gravelfix Benefits

  • It ensures a 100% draining paving
  • It’s a completely recyclable product, made with high-quality Polypropylene, 100% pure
  • Suitable for all applications, pedestrians, light and heavy traffic, motorbikes, bicycles, and wheelchair
  • An economic paving option that keeps its color unchanged for years.
  • The structure suppresses the growth of weeds and holds marble chips or pebbles
  • It can be easily cut and adapted to all environments
  • It is unaffected by cold and freezing temperatures
  • GRAVELFIX structure stops footprints and tire tracks

Main Gravel Application Areas

  • Public and private parking
  • Balconies and rooftop gardens
  • Alleys and cycle paths
  • Driveways
  • Cemetery areas and avenues
  • Playgrounds
  • Parks and Gardens
  • Residential gardens

In this video, we show the process of preparing the base for this new gravel driveway with red angel stone gravel. We are preparing the final coating and compacting and flattening the bluestone screening base. We are moving on to install the Gravelfix System to contain the gravel.

This system has a honeycomb shape made out of polypropylene and a fiber mesh shedding attached on one side.  The fiber mesh prevents the rock from underneath coming to the surface and mixing with the finished stones of the driveway.  In addition, it holds the gravel that is installed in it and creates a better surface for the car tires to grab on and traction. The system also slows down the water runoff.  In particular, in some driveways, it makes a big difference.  This driveway is a very large area that is sloped towards the house.  A lot of water coming from the street also comes into the driveway and runs towards the house.  Through many heavy rain showers so far the homeowner has been very happy with the results.   He has noticed a big difference since the Ggravelfix System was installed under the gravel.

The final part is the installation of gravel.  We are filling the Gravelfix System with Red ⅜ Pennsylvanian stones.  Gappsi carries a large selection of stones and glass gravel that we import from Italy.   We display all our gravels and products at the Gappsi showroom. On the driveway, we also installed the Gappsi split-face Limestone Belgium paver as the driveway apron. This is the latest Gravelfix driveway installed by Gappsi in Laurel Hollow, NY

Budgeting for Your Gravel Driveway

Planning your budget is one of the first steps in any home improvement project, and a new driveway is no exception. The good news is that a gravel driveway is often a more cost-effective choice than traditional asphalt or concrete, both in terms of initial installation and long-term upkeep. While the upfront cost is typically lower, the real value comes from modern installation techniques that create a durable, stable surface. By understanding the full scope of the investment, you can plan for a beautiful driveway that fits your budget and enhances your home’s curb appeal for years to come.

Understanding the Investment

A gravel driveway is a smart investment, especially when you consider the long-term benefits. While the initial cost is appealing, modern stabilization systems like Gravelfix are what truly make it a lasting solution. This technology prevents common issues like gravel migration, ruts from tires, and washout after heavy rain, which means you’ll spend less time and money on maintenance down the road. Instead of constantly replenishing stones or dealing with an uneven surface, you get a consistently smooth and attractive driveway. This approach transforms a simple gravel path into a durable, high-performance gravel driveway that adds lasting value to your property.

Working With a Professional Team

To get the most out of your investment, working with a professional team is essential. An experienced installer ensures the foundation is properly prepared and that the right materials are used for your specific needs, from the base layer to the top gravel. Professionals can help you select the perfect stone to complement your home and landscape, ensuring the final result is exactly what you envisioned. More importantly, expert installation of systems like Gravelfix guarantees a stable, long-lasting surface that resists wear and tear. Collaborating with a skilled team like Gappsi means your project is completed efficiently, correctly, and with a level of craftsmanship that protects your investment for the future.

A Closer Look at Gravelfix Specifications

Now that you understand the benefits of stabilizing your gravel driveway, let’s look at the technology that makes it possible. Gravelfix isn’t just a simple plastic grid; it’s an engineered system designed for superior performance and longevity. The specific features of its design are what allow it to solve the common problems associated with traditional gravel surfaces, like rutting, weed growth, and poor drainage. Understanding these specifications will show you why this is such a smart investment for your property. It’s the details that transform a loose gravel path into a durable, high-performance driveway that lasts for years.

Built for Strength and Durability

A driveway needs to withstand the daily pressure of vehicles, foot traffic, and the changing seasons without failing. Gravelfix was created with this in mind, using materials and a structure that provide incredible resilience. Its honeycomb-shaped cells are key to its strength, distributing weight evenly across the surface to prevent the gravel from shifting or sinking under load. This structural integrity ensures your driveway remains smooth and stable, whether you’re parking a small car or a heavy-duty truck. This is the core function that prevents the ruts and potholes that plague unstabilized gravel driveways, giving you a consistently reliable surface.

Material Strength and Load Capacity

So, what makes it so tough? The Gravelfix system is engineered to handle immense weight, with a load capacity of over 250 tons per square meter when filled. To put that in perspective, it can easily support the weight of multiple large SUVs, delivery trucks, and other heavy residential vehicles without breaking a sweat. This incredible strength comes from its unique honeycomb design, which locks the gravel in place and creates a solid, interconnected surface. This means no more sinking tires or displaced stones, just a consistently firm and even driveway that maintains its pristine look and function day after day.

Performance in Extreme Temperatures

Here on Long Island, we experience the full range of weather, from scorching summer heat to freezing winter cold. A driveway material needs to handle these temperature swings without cracking or warping. Gravelfix is designed to perform flawlessly in temperatures ranging from -4°F to 149°F. This means it won’t become brittle and crack during a deep freeze, nor will it soften or lose its shape during a summer heatwave. This all-weather resilience ensures your investment is protected year-round, providing a stable and reliable surface no matter what the forecast holds.

Materials, Colors, and Dimensions

Beyond its strength, the physical makeup of the Gravelfix system is designed for versatility and sustainability. The materials used are chosen not only for their durability but also for their environmental impact and ease of installation. The system comes in manageable panels that our team at Gappsi can easily cut and shape to fit the unique layout of your property, whether it’s a winding driveway, a garden path, or a parking area. This adaptability allows for complete creative control, ensuring the final result perfectly matches your vision for your home’s exterior.

Eco-Friendly Material Options

If sustainability is important to you, you’ll be happy to know that Gravelfix is made from 100% recyclable polypropylene. This makes it an environmentally responsible choice for your home improvement project. By choosing a product made from recyclable materials, you are helping to reduce waste and support a more circular economy. This commitment to sustainability doesn’t come at the expense of quality; polypropylene is a robust and long-lasting material, ensuring your eco-friendly driveway is also a durable one that will serve you well for many years to come.

Product Sizes and Cell Dimensions

The Gravelfix system is available in different panel sizes, making it adaptable to projects of any scale. The two main options, Gravelfix Pro and Gravelfix Smart, allow for efficient installation across large areas or intricate pathways. The Pro panels are approximately 3.8 feet by 2.5 feet, ideal for covering large driveways quickly. The Smart panels are smaller, making them perfect for curved edges or smaller spaces. This flexibility ensures a custom fit for any design, minimizing waste and ensuring a seamless, professional finish for your project.

Advanced Weed and Water Management

Two of the biggest headaches with traditional gravel are constant weeding and poor drainage. Gravelfix addresses both of these issues with its integrated design. Attached to the bottom of the honeycomb grid is a high-quality geotextile fabric. This layer serves a dual purpose: it acts as a formidable barrier to prevent weeds from growing up through your gravel, and it allows water to pass through freely. This means you get a low-maintenance surface that also provides excellent water drainage, preventing puddles and reducing stormwater runoff from your property.

Installation and Design Flexibility

One of the best parts about choosing a gravel driveway is the sheer variety available. Forget the image of a plain, gray, dusty path. Modern gravel driveways are visually stunning, adding a unique rustic charm to your home’s exterior that you just can’t get with asphalt or concrete. Because the stones come in so many different colors, shapes, and sizes, you have complete creative control to customize a look that perfectly complements your property’s style. Whether your home is a classic colonial or a modern masterpiece, there’s a gravel option that will enhance its curb appeal. This design flexibility allows you to create a truly bespoke entrance that feels both natural and sophisticated, setting your home apart from the rest of the neighborhood.

More Than Just Gravel

A beautiful driveway is one thing, but a functional one is essential. That’s where a stabilization system like Gravelfix comes in. Investing in this system for your driveway offers a host of advantages that address the common concerns associated with traditional gravel surfaces. Gravelfix works by creating a stable foundation that holds the gravel in place, so you don’t have to worry about stones shifting, sinking, or creating unsightly ruts from your car’s tires. This means your driveway remains a flat, uniform surface that’s easy to walk and drive on. The system provides a solid base that keeps everything looking neat and tidy while ensuring your driveway can handle daily traffic without constant maintenance.

Finishing Touches: The Role of Edging

To achieve a truly polished and long-lasting result, edging is a crucial finishing touch. Using a quality edging solution, like ALUBORD, alongside the Gravelfix system helps create clean, defined borders for your driveway, pathways, or garden beds. This not only looks professional but also enhances the structural integrity of the entire surface. Edging keeps the gravel contained, preventing it from spilling over into your lawn or landscaping. It makes the entire installation more stable and durable, even if you’re working with elegant curved shapes in your design. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference in the overall appearance and longevity of your project.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Choosing the right materials can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Gappsi, we guide you through the entire process, from design to installation. We offer a massive selection of stones and glass gravel, including beautiful options imported directly from Italy, giving you plenty of choices to find the perfect match for your home. You can see and feel these materials for yourself at our showroom, which makes the decision-making process much easier. Our team is here to provide the expertise you need to create a stunning and durable gravel driveway that you’ll love for years to come.

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View Gappsi’s YouTube Channel for Videos of Gravel Driveways Make a Big Comeback with Gravelfix

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does a stabilized gravel driveway handle Long Island snow and ice? This is a great question and a valid concern for our area. Because the Gravelfix system holds the stones securely in place, you can use a snowblower or even a plow without worrying about scraping up your driveway. We recommend setting the blade just slightly higher than the surface. The driveway’s natural permeability also helps meltwater drain away more effectively, which can reduce ice buildup compared to non-porous surfaces like asphalt.

Will I still have to pull weeds all the time? You can finally retire your weeding gloves. The Gravelfix grid has a durable geotextile fabric bonded to the bottom. This layer acts as a physical barrier, preventing weeds from growing up from the soil beneath. While an occasional airborne seed might sprout on the surface, the constant battle of pulling weeds from deep within the gravel is a thing of the past.

What does maintenance really look like for a driveway with Gravelfix? Unlike traditional gravel driveways that require regular raking to fix ruts and frequent top-offs to replace scattered stones, a stabilized driveway is incredibly hands-off. Since the gravel is locked in place, the surface remains smooth and even. Your main task will simply be to clear away leaves or other organic debris as you would with any other driveway.

Can I use any style of stone with the Gravelfix system? While you have a wide range of colors and types to choose from, angular crushed stone is the best choice for maximum stability. The jagged edges of stones like crushed granite or limestone interlock neatly within the system’s honeycomb cells. This creates a firm, solid surface that’s ideal for vehicles. Smoother, rounded stones like pea gravel can be used, but they won’t provide the same level of interlocking performance.

Is a gravel driveway still noisy with the stabilization grid? Yes, you still get that classic, satisfying crunch when a car pulls in, which is a feature many homeowners appreciate for security. The sound is different from that of a deep, loose gravel path, however. Because the stones are held in a single, stable layer, the sound is more crisp and consistent, without the loud grinding noise of stones shifting and displacing under the weight of tires.

Key Takeaways

  • Stabilization is Non-Negotiable for Modern Gravel: To get a beautiful, low-maintenance gravel driveway, a stabilization system is essential. Products like Gravelfix use a grid structure to lock stones in place, preventing the classic problems of ruts, sinking, and messy gravel migration.
  • Choose a System that Solves Multiple Problems: The best stabilization grids do more than just hold gravel. A quality system is engineered to support heavy vehicles, includes a built-in fabric to block weeds, and allows water to drain through, preventing puddles and runoff.
  • Pair Your Aesthetic Vision with Professional Installation: You have complete creative control to choose the perfect stone color and texture for your home. To ensure it lasts, rely on a professional team for proper site preparation and expert installation of the stabilization system for a flawless, long-term result.

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