Our Story
Havlick Services began in Austin with just a skid steer and a strong commitment to doing things right. We built our reputation on simple values: show up when we say we will, treat people with honesty, and let our work speak for itself.
Living and working in Austin, we understand the local climate and soil conditions that impact gravel driveway construction. Our techniques ensure that every driveway, road, and parking lot we build is stable, long-lasting, and able to withstand Austin’s climate, including its occasional heavy rains and varying soil conditions.
We believe that proper techniques and application make all the difference, allowing us to deliver driveways, roads, and parking lots that enhance your home or business
What Sets us Apart?
We Pick Up the Phone
Tired of contractors who go silent? We respond quickly and stay in touch so you’re never in the dark.
Accountability
If a problem pops up, we own it. We find the solution fast so your project never falls behind.
Transparent Pricing
We don’t bury surprises in the fine print. The price we quote is the price you pay.
We Get It Right
Zero shortcuts, zero second-guessing. You hire us, you get a job done right.
Our Gravel Driveway Installation Method
1. Remove Grass & Topsoil
The first step in building a gravel driveway is to remove the grass, roots, and as much topsoil as possible. This creates a clean, stable base for the driveway.
2. Build the Base Layer
Once the area is cleared, a 4"+ layer of limestone road base is installed. This material is highly compactable and provides a strong, stable foundation for the driveway.
3. Compact the Base Layer
Compaction is a crucial step to ensure the driveway’s stability and longevity. The road base is thoroughly moistened with water and compacted to achieve maximum density and strength.
4. Add the Gravel Layer
A thin layer of aggregate is spread over the compacted road base to create the traditional gravel driveway appearance. This top layer reduces dust, minimizes water erosion, and adds extra durability to the surface.
What Our Customers Say
What Makes Our Process Stand Out
1. Heavy Compaction
Compaction is one of the most important aspects of a well-built road or driveway. We utilize a heavy 5-ton vibratory roller to tightly compact all materials during installation. Poor compaction can quickly lead to deterioration and erosion, compromising the integrity of your driveway or road. Our thorough compaction process ensures a stable foundation, reducing the risk of future settling and extending the lifespan of your investment.
2. Adequate Moisture
Austin's dry climate, especially during hot summers, often results in limestone road base that lacks the necessary moisture for proper compaction. To ensure optimal results, we add water to the road base using our water trailers or water trucks. This essential step lubricates gravel particles, allowing them to compact more densely and uniformly. While adding water might seem like an easy step to skip, we prioritize it to achieve the proper moisture levels necessary for a strong, long-lasting surface. This attention to detail helps our driveways and roads achieve maximum compaction and strength.
3. Adding a Crown for Effective Drainage
Proper drainage is crucial in Austin’s climate to prevent erosion and surface damage. We crown our driveways and roads by slightly elevating the center and creating a gentle slope toward both edges. This design directs water off the driveway efficiently, preventing pooling and reducing the risk of potholes and ruts. By ensuring proper water runoff, we minimize erosion and maintain the stability and longevity of your driveway or road.
4. Appropriate Base Thickness
A well-constructed driveway or road typically requires a final compacted thickness of 4 to 8 inches, tailored to the weight of the vehicles it will support. Investing in the right thickness ensures your driveway can handle heavy traffic without compromising its structure. By prioritizing adequate thickness, we build driveways that are not only stable and durable but also provide long-term value and reduce the need for frequent maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Much Does Gravel Driveway Installation in Austin Cost?
In Austin, the average total cost for a new limestone gravel driveway that is between 300-750 ft long ranges from $1.25 to $2.50 per square foot. If you’re looking to repair or resurface an existing driveway, the costs are significantly lower. Several factors influence these costs, including the distance from the nearest quarry, the type of materials selected, weight capacity requirements, and accessibility for dump trucks and heavy machinery.
2. Does Havlick Services Install Decomposed Granite Driveways in Austin ?
Yes. Crushed granite is an excellent material for building driveways due to its ability to compact tightly, attractive red and tan colors, and natural permeability that allows water to drain effectively. However, crushed granite typically costs more in most locations because it is mined in Granite Shoals. For customers near Austin, this means higher trucking expenses compared to limestone, which is readily available near most cities surrounding Austin.
3. Can I get a Rough Estimate Over the Phone or Email for Gravel Driveway Construction?
Yes, we’re happy to provide a rough estimate and answer any questions you may have about your project over the phone or via email. If you decide to move forward, we’ll schedule a site visit to gather additional information, allowing us to prepare a detailed proposal that outlines the costs and specifics for your driveway, road, or parking lot project.
4. Does Havlick Services Install Gravel Parking Lots, or RV Pads in Austin?
Yes, we install gravel parking lots, RV pads, and parking areas, utilizing the same proven techniques and materials we use for gravel driveways and roads. Our process includes proper site preparation, compaction, and drainage planning to create stable, durable surfaces that stand up to heavy use and weather conditions.
Service Area
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Buda
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Kyle
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Lago Vista
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Lakeway
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Leander
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Pflugerville
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Round Rock
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Shady Hallow
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Taylor
Anatomy of a Gravel Driveway
This diagram illustrates the key components of a properly constructed gravel driveway, including the compacted subgrade, geotextile fabric, base layer, and top layer. Each layer plays a crucial role in creating a durable, stable, and long-lasting surface designed to handle traffic and resist erosion.
