Why A Gravel Stabilizer Grid System Might Help Your Unpaved Road

​Although the benefits of a paved road are numerous, most states and industries rely on maintaining existing gravel roads. A significant problem with gravel is that it shifts, creating harmful fugitive dust. A gravel stabilizer grid system is a popular choice to keep gravel from migrating across roads, walkways, and parking lots. 

What Is a Gravel Stabilizer Grid?
A gravel stabilizer grid is a cellular structure implanted underneath gravel that traps gravel in its structure while providing stability on the surface. They are designed to hold the gravel within the cells and mitigate the movement of gravel. Gravel stabilizers are composed of both soft and rigid materials and come in a variety of options. 

How to Prepare Soil for Gravel Stabilization
Construction of stable gravel roads begins with a properly prepared bed for gravel. Long-term planning of gravel stabilization requires digging 8-12 inches into the road's surface to remove all roots or plant material. The soil should also be compacted with a roller or plate compactor. Once removed, a 4-inch layer of coarse gravel is placed on the compacted subgrade, and both layers are compressed. 

Installation of Gravel Stabilizers 
Gravel stabilizer grids can help hold the surface of gravel in place to prevent washout of the roadway. These are installed beneath the final layer of top gravel. Many products can support the weight of large vehicles and traffic up to 65 tons or more. 

Uses of Gravel Stabilizers
Gravel stabilizers are used in both commercial and residential construction and maintenance. Different gravel stabilizer systems are used depending on the unpaved roadway traffic and the project. Examples include:

• Access roads for large construction projects where the ground is soft and heavy.
• Residential driveways and walkways. 
• Gravel parking lots to provide natural water infiltration.

Soil Stabilization on Gravel
While gravel stabilizer systems can prevent aggregate gravel from moving, unpaved roads risk increased fugitive dust. To increase the gravel's compression strength and reduce dust, long-lasting soil stabilization methods, such as polymer alternatives, are recommended. 
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The Envirotac line of dust control polymers is a premium product to control dust on unpaved roads. If you require a road dust control solution for your construction project, contact us at Environmental Products and Applications, Inc., and we can offer expert advice on which product is right for you.