How to Repair and Prevent Washouts in Gravel Driveways and Fix Cracks

Driveways are more than just functional—they’re one of the first things people see when arriving at your home. But whether your surface is concrete or gravel, over time it’s likely to suffer from wear and tear. Washouts, ruts, and erosion can quickly turn a once-pristine gravel driveway into a maintenance nightmare, while concrete driveways can crack with seasonal shifts or soil movement.

Fortunately, CORE Landscape Products offer innovative, long-term solutions to reduce maintenance and enhance the durability and appearance of your driveway. This guide explores how to repair and reinforce gravel or concrete driveways using our CORE Foundations grid systems.

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Gravel Driveways: How to Repair Washouts and Prevent Erosion

Gravel driveways are beloved for their natural aesthetic and permeability, but they’re especially vulnerable to erosion caused by rain, snowmelt, and vehicle traffic. If you’re dealing with a washed-out driveway, here’s how to restore it—and prevent future damage:

1. Assess the Damage

Begin by identifying low spots, ruts, or areas where gravel has shifted. Look for root causes like poor drainage, sloped terrain, or high-traffic zones.

2. Replenish the Gravel

Refill bare areas with clean, angular gravel. While this can temporarily fix the surface, gravel alone won’t hold its shape for long without stabilization.

3. Install CORE Gravel Foundations

For a permanent solution, install CORE Gravel stabilization grids. These durable, interlocking panels keep gravel locked in place while allowing water to drain through, eliminating washouts and reducing maintenance.

Installation Steps:

Remove loose gravel and re-grade the surface.
Lay CORE Gravel panels across the area and anchor them as needed.
Fill the grids with gravel, compacting lightly to secure the fill.

With CORE Foundations, your gravel driveway becomes stronger, safer, and more sustainable—perfect for everyday traffic and stormy weather.

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Concrete Driveways: How to Fix Cracks or Replace with a Better Base

Cracked concrete doesn’t just impact curb appeal—it can lead to larger structural problems over time. If your concrete driveway is starting to fail, here’s how to fix or replace it with a more flexible solution:

1. Clean and Prep the Cracks

Use a pressure washer or wire brush to remove dirt and debris. Let the area dry fully before applying any filler.

2. Seal the Cracks

Apply a high-quality crack filler or patching compound and smooth it with a trowel. This can prevent water intrusion and stop further spreading.

3. Upgrade to a CORE Foundation Base

If your concrete is extensively damaged, it may be time to replace it with CORE Foundations—a permeable, flexible grid system that moves with the ground instead of cracking over time. Ideal for freeze-thaw regions or unstable soils.

Installation Steps:

Excavate and remove the cracked concrete.
Lay and compact a gravel sub-base.
Install CORE Foundation grids across the surface.
Fill with gravel, pavers, or other durable topping material.

The result? A long-lasting, crack-resistant driveway that looks beautiful and handles extreme weather effortlessly.

Preventative Tips for Long-Lasting Driveways

Want to avoid constant repairs? These tips can help extend your driveway’s life:

Use CORE Stabilization Grids: Prevent shifting, washouts, and cracking with long-term surface support.
Improve Drainage: Combine CORE grids with French drains, swales, or geocell reinforcement to direct water away from your surface.
Inspect Regularly: Keep an eye out for low spots, loose gravel, or emerging cracks.
Choose the Right Materials: High-quality gravel, pavers, or CORE Foundations enhance durability and require less maintenance over time.

Upgrade with CORE: Strength You Can Count On

CORE Landscape Products are engineered for sustainability and strength. Whether you’re repairing a washed-out gravel driveway or replacing cracked concrete, our permeable grid systems are designed to last—backed by industry approvals including fire truck access, erosion control, and slip resistance.

Ready to protect your driveway for good?

How to Repair and Prevent Washouts in Gravel Driveways and Fix Cracks in Concrete Driveways with CORE Foundations