Work through the ruts, not just over them
Grading loosens and redistributes usable material to reshape the driving surface. Recurring potholes often need to be worked through their damaged depth, then refilled and compacted. Simply pushing loose gravel into a hole can leave the underlying weakness in place.
Where the base is soft or gravel has been lost, grading may need to be paired with base repair or additional material. The aim is a firm, consistent surface rather than a thin cosmetic cover.
What a driveway crown does
A driveway crown is a slightly raised center that helps water drain toward the sides. Without it, water can sit in depressions or run down the wheel tracks, carrying gravel away.
A crowned gravel driveway is one option; some sites need a cross-slope instead. The right shape depends on the terrain and where water can safely discharge. Crown restoration should work with the driveway ditch or swale, not send runoff toward a building or neighboring property.
When regrading makes sense
Look for ruts, washboarding, recurring puddles, displaced gravel at the edges, and a center that no longer sheds water. Schedule maintenance based on those conditions, traffic, and storm damage rather than an arbitrary calendar.
- Rework existing gravel where it remains usable.
- Restore the crown and correct low spots.
- Repair weak base sections when needed.
- Top-dress and compact where the driveway has lost material.
Describe the trouble spots
When requesting driveway grading in Farmington or nearby communities, tell us whether the problem affects the whole drive or only certain sections. Mention steep grades, soft ground, and water running down the driveway.