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Testimonials
Canton, CT's Choice for Gravel Driveways
Homeowners in Canton choose Excellence Masonry and Contracting for durable and attractive gravel driveways. We offer expert installation and grading to ensure longevity and proper function.
Creating a durable, low-maintenance gravel driveway involves more than just spreading stone. The most critical step is addressing the sub-grade to prevent common problems like potholes, washouts, and invasive weed growth. Our process begins with grading the soil to establish proper crowning and drainage paths. We then install a heavy-duty geotextile separation fabric, which keeps the gravel clean and prevents it from sinking into the subsoil. Finally, we install and compact multiple layers of crushed angular stone with geogrid stabilization, with larger aggregate at the base for stability and a smaller, denser stone on top for a smooth, locked-in driving surface.
Why Choose Us?
There are many construction, landscaping, outdoor living, and design companies to choose from- here is what makes us different.
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Our Approach is Thorough and Integrated- no stone is left unturned, and as a design-build company, we have an unmatched ability to assess, plan, and execute projects efficiently.
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The Team We Have is Experienced and Robust- our construction team is comprised of experts who are our family, friends, as well as long-time employees and subcontractors. Our company sprouted from a family business started 25+ years ago, and some members of our crew have more than 50 years of experience.
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Industry-Leading Warranties and a Client for Life Guarantee- on new installations and applicable repairs, we provide warranties well beyond State minimums, and well beyond what most construction, landscaping, masonry, or other companies offer. Our client for life guarantee means that we intend to stand by you and our work, for the life of our business. Our goal is to provide many services and complete many projects for you and the people you know over time. With this intention, we will always be available to address issues, make repairs, or provide maintenance for completed projects- regardless of warranty terms.
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Transparency and Consistent Communication- with us, all cards are on the table from our first conversation, through the end of the project. We want to provide you with all pertinent details, considerations, and options so you are educated and completely in control of your project and your money. Throughout the project, we uphold this commitment to transparency and communication by providing daily updates and informing you of any changes or new information immediately.
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Commitment to Professional Responsibility and Top-Quality- in our view, it is our responsibility to ensure your project is done to the highest possible standard within your budget and within the parameters of feasibility. You will not feel like it is "on you" to know what's best or to manage the project when you work with us, which is a common complaint we hear from clients' past experiences. We also have a commitment to top quality, which we display in our work, our team, our industry partners, and our process.
Our Approach to Projects
Of course, every project and every situation is different, and so is our approach.. Below is a general and simplified outline of our process. We can also bid and build to your preexisting plan or design.
1.
Discovery/Consultation
We start with a conversation to understand your intent for the project, assess your property, and determine the best next step- usually a rough estimate, quote or design agreement. Rough pricing, options, and preliminary considerations are discussed. Email, call or fill the form below to get in touch!
2.
Design / Planning
The design and planning phase is where we value engineer your project- and establish the scope of work, project pricing, and our installation/construction plan. This phase will look a bit different for each project and each scenario, with some requiring more design and pre-construction work than others.
3.
Construction
This is when the proposed plan comes to life! Expect a stress-free, transparent, and efficient construction experience due to our thorough design and planning process and consistent communication. Our team respects you, your project, and your property.
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Walk-Thru & Clean-Up
After the project is completed, we will walk through the project to go over any pertinent information and maintenance information, as well as to confirm that the project is completed as expected.
FAQ's
What are the benefits of a gravel driveway?
Gravel driveways are typically more affordable to install than pavers or asphalt. They offer excellent drainage, a natural aesthetic that fits many Canton homes, and are relatively easy to maintain or refresh.
How long does a gravel driveway last?
With proper installation and occasional maintenance (like regrading or adding stone), a gravel driveway can last for decades. The lifespan depends heavily on the quality of the base preparation and drainage.
Is a gravel driveway hard to maintain?
Maintenance involves occasional raking to keep the stone level, pulling weeds, and potentially adding more gravel every few years to replenish low spots. Compared to sealing asphalt, it's often considered lower effort but more frequent.
What's the difference between gravel and crushed stone?
Gravel is typically rounded stones (like river rock), while crushed stone is angular, having been mechanically broken. Crushed stone interlocks better, creating a more stable surface, making it generally preferred for driveways.
Do gravel driveways get muddy or rutted?
Proper installation is key. A deep, well-compacted base layer of larger crushed stone beneath the decorative top layer prevents mud and significantly minimizes rutting, even in wet conditions or during spring thaws.
How long does a gravel driveway last?
With proper installation and occasional maintenance (like regrading or adding stone), a gravel driveway can last for decades. The lifespan depends heavily on the quality of the base preparation and drainage.
Do gravel driveways get muddy or rutted?
Proper installation is key. A deep, well-compacted base layer of larger crushed stone beneath the decorative top layer prevents mud and significantly minimizes rutting, even in wet conditions or during spring thaws.
Is a gravel driveway hard to maintain?
Maintenance involves occasional raking to keep the stone level, pulling weeds, and potentially adding more gravel every few years to replenish low spots. Compared to sealing asphalt, it's often considered lower effort but more frequent.
What's the difference between gravel and crushed stone?
Gravel is typically rounded stones (like river rock), while crushed stone is angular, having been mechanically broken. Crushed stone interlocks better, creating a more stable surface, making it generally preferred for driveways.
What are the benefits of a gravel driveway?
Gravel driveways are typically more affordable to install than pavers or asphalt. They offer excellent drainage, a natural aesthetic that fits many Canton homes, and are relatively easy to maintain or refresh.