Gravel driveway vs. asphalt: Which is better for your property?

If you’re planning a new driveway or looking to replace an old one, you’re probably debating between two of the most popular options: gravel and asphalt. At Forged Built, we’ve installed many driveways across all types of properties, and we get this question all the time:

“Should I go with gravel or asphalt?”

The answer? It depends on your needs - but in many cases, gravel is the smarter, more versatile, and cost-effective choice, especially door rural, residential, or large-scale properties.

Here is a breakdown to help you decide what is best for your driveway - from cost and durability to maintenance and appearance.

Initial cost: Gravel is lower upfront. Asphalt is higher initial cost

Maintenance: Gravel is easy, low maintenance. Asphalt cracks over time and needs sealing

Drainage: Gravel has excellent natural drainage. Asphalt can collect water if not sloped.

Installation Time: Gravel is fast (1-2 days). Asphalt is longer (2-4 days)

Durability: Gravel is long lasting with upkeep. Asphalt can degrade in extreme temps.

Appearance: Gravel is rustic and natural. Asphalt is smooth, clean and has blacktop look.

Flexibility: Gravel is easy to modify or expand. Asphalt takes more work and extra time to change or expand.

COST: GRAVEL WINS FOR BUDGET-FRIENDLY PROJECTS

If budget is a key factor, gravel is the clear winner. Gravel driveways typically cost 30% to 60% less than asphalt to install.

At Forged Built, we recommend gravel for:

• Long rural driveways

• Properties with limited budgets

• Temporary or transitional builds

• Areas with high water runoff or unstable terrain

Asphalt might be worth considering if you are in a suburban area looking for a more formal appearance - but even then, the long-term cost of sealing and repairing cracks can add up fast.

DRAINAGE: GRAVEL HANDLES WATER LIKE A CHAMP

One of thee biggest benefits of gravel is its natural drainage. Water flows though the gravel instead of pooling on the surface. Which means

• Less erosion near your home

• Fewer puddles and mud

• Better long0term driveway health

At Forged Built, we often recommend gravel in areas with heavy rainfall or unstable soil. We also combine proper grading and compaction techniques to ensure water flow away from your foundation - not toward it.

MAINTENANCE: ASPHALT REQUIRES MORE, GRAVEL IS MORE FORGIVING

Yes, gravel driveways do need occasional regrading or additional material, but asphalt often requires more intensive repairs over time:

• Seal coating every 2-3 years

• Crack filling

• Edge Crumbling prevention

Gravel, on the other hand, is easy to refresh. You can add a new top layer every few years or fix soft spots without expensive tools or labor. Forged Built also offers maintenance plans to keep your gravel driveway looking and preforming its best year after year.

INSTALLATION: GRAVEL GETS YOU DRIVING SOONER

Asphalt requires curing time, especially in colder months. Gravel driveways can often be:

• Graded

• Compacted

• And ready to use in 1-2 days

At Forged Built, we use top-tier equipment and Solid gravel base that’s built to lat. That means less downtime for you, and more time enjoying your space.

APPEARANCE: FUNCTION OR FINISH?

Aesthetically, the choice is personal:

• Gravel offers a rustic, natural look that blends well with rural or wooded properties. It also comes in various stone types and colors.

• Asphalt gives a more formal, modern curb appeal.

We can help you choose gravel types that match your landscape design or even use decorative borders to elevate the look of a gravel driveway.

WHY FORGED BUILT USES AND RECOMMENDS GRAVEL FOR MOST DRIVEWAYS

We specialize in grading and griveway installation, and after years of experience. We have seen how well-installed gravel driveways outperform expectations - especially in areas with:

• Rural or uneven land

• Heavy rainfall (Oregon)

• Budget-conscious builds

• Agriculture or commercial vehicle access

  We take gravel seriously. We don’t just dump rock, we:

• Grade with precision

• Compact with heavy equipment

• Use proper base layering

• Choose the right gravel for you soil and climate

  The result? A sold, reliable driveway that stands the test of time and is easy to maintain for years to come

  READY FOR A GRAVEL DRIVEWAY THATS BUILT TO LAST?

  Whether you are replacing an old drive, building on raw land, or just tired of mud and ruts, Forged Built has your back!

  Free consultations!!!

  (971) 486 6587

  Levi@forgedbuilt.com

  CCB#246536