Gravel Stabilisation FAQs
How do you install it?
- Install a sub-base (75-200mm of hardcore or crushed concrete) and 25-50mm of compacted sharp sand. Thinner bases can be used for foot traffic (50mm of hardcore or crushed concrete and 15mm of compacted sharp sand).
- Place trays on prepared sub-base, with subsequent trays laid on projecting membrane flaps to inhibit weed growth between trays.
- Cut trays into any shape required using a power or hand saw. The retaining edging will keep the trays in place.
- Fill the trays from the front with a wheelbarrow; this will help to compact the gravel with each trip.
- Spread the gravel across the honeycombs until trays are no longer visible with a 10-20mm overfill.
Note: Sub-base substructure is dependent on the intended use. This can vary from compacted earth for very light foot access paths to 150mm of type one sub base material, where regular vehicle traffic is anticipated. For most installations a sub-base of 150 mm will be suitable, unless the ground is clearly very soft, or has a CBR value below 2.5%. In general the same sub-base recommended for modular concrete paving, is suitable for StablePAVE.
What types and size of gravel can you use?
Up to 10mm diameter gravel for StablePAVE ECO, TRADE 30, and TRADE 40. Up to 20mm diameter gravel for StablePAVE HD.
We recommend angular gravels of hard non-porous stone such as flints, granites, and quartz. These lock together well and do not displace easily. Softer porous gravels such as limestones and sandstones should be avoided, as these break down easily and can slow down the passage of water through the panels.
How do you edge it?
Brick & Cement
Haunched concrete
Tanalised timber
Specialist edging
Tarmacadam (for ramping to existing surfaces)
Can you install it on an old drive / concrete base?
We do not recommend that you use the existing drive as a sub-base for the StablePAVE products as this can cause drainage problems with non-porous materials.
Can you drive cars on these products?
StablePAVE ECO is for pathways and occasional light traffic only. StablePAVE TRADE 30, TRADE 40, and HD are designed for cars.
Can you use stabilisation products on a slope?
Gentle slopes (up to 1 in 10) are OK, however the driveway must be maintained by raking the gravel. Damage occurs when the honeycomb is exposed. Simply top up the gravel to ensure full coverage of the honeycomb structure.
What is the product made from?
StablePAVE ECO and StablePAVE TRADE - UV stable Polypropylene (PP).
StablePAVE HD - UV stable High Density Polyethylene (HDPE).
All panels are manufactured from 100% recycled material.
How long does it last?
Applications in Holland which have been laid for approximately 20 years and are still being used. The product is UV stable, and is resistant to most chemicals.
Is it easy to maintain?
Yes. Whilst there is no rutting and aggregate migration the gravel will still occasionally need to be raked. If the honeycomb is visible the gravel should be raked to completely cover the honeycomb, thus preventing damage.
What maintenance do I need to carry out?
Ensure that the honeycomb is always covered with a layer of gravel (approximately 10-20mm). Damage occurs when the honeycomb is exposed. Gravel may need to be topped up on heavily trafficked areas.
Does it stop weeds growing?
Yes, the semi-permeable membrane which is molded into the underside of the product will help stop weeds growing.
Is it frost proof / heat proof?
Yes, to -43C and +80C
Is it environmentally friendly?
Yes. StablePAVE ECO and StablePAVE TRADE provide a porous paving solutions which returns water back to the environment instead of diverting to drainage systems or causing the flooding problems of traditional pavement installations. StablePAVE is completely recyclable and uses 100% recycled material which is UV and heat resistant, therefore it does not easily degrade which could lead to toxins leaking into the environment.
Do I need planning to use StablePAVE as a driveway product?
All StablePAVE products are a permeable paving solution; however click here to visit the planning portal for more information.
Does it drain?
Yes, water simply runs through the gravel and membrane – completely porous.
Is it a porous paving solution?
Yes. Water travels through the honeycomb, gravel and geo-textile membrane across the complete surface so this is a true porous paving product. Pervious surfaces can be either porous or permeable. The important distinction between the two is:
Porous
Porous paving - A permeable surface allowing the passage of water through voids within, rather than between, the paving blocks/slabs.
Porous surface - A surface that infiltrates water to the sub-base across the entire surface of the material forming the surface, for example grass and gravel surfaces, porous concrete and porous asphalt.
Permeable
Permeable pavement - A paved surface that allows the passage of water through voids between the paving blocks/slabs.
Permeable surface - A surface formed of material that is itself impervious to water but, by virtue of voids formed through the surface, allows infiltration of water to the sub-base through the pattern of voids, e.g. concrete block paving.
Can I use StablePAVE for an DDA-compliant surface?
Yes. Non stabilised gravel surfaces are difficult for people with mobility impairments to negotiate and therefore should be avoided, StablePAVE products allow a natural look, yet offer a stabilised finish, easy passage for foot traffic, vehicles, pushchairs, bicycles and wheelchairs. StablePAVE meets all the criteria specified in 'Approved Document M' and is regularly and consistently considered secure and approved by Building Control when used with the following stipulations:
- Angular aggregate is used as opposed to rounded aggregate
- Aggregate is no bigger than 10 mm
- Our recommended coverage is not exceeded
Please check for suitability with your local council and building control officer.
Does it meet the requirements for SuDS?
Yes. StablePAVE products are compatible with Sustainable (Urban) Drainage Solutions as it is a porous surface. SuDS can be either porous or permeable.
Please click here for Gravel Stabilisation Technical Details.