Land Clearing and New 1850-ft Gravel Driveway Installation in Hilton, NY (Monroe County)

Project Completed: September 21, 2023
Services: Land Clearing, Excavation & Trenching, Culvert Pipe Installation, New Gravel Driveway Installation

Project Overview

We had the pleasure of working with a kind homeowner, along with his wife, who planned to build a house in a peaceful rural land in Hilton, Monroe County. The property is undeveloped and we’re honored that we’re the one who started the development on their property. Before starting on the construction of their house, they contacted us to install a new construction driveway that will connect their house to the road.

Existing Site Condition and Challenges

Project Details from Google Map

As you can see from the Google Map screenshot below, the proposed location of the house will be situated deep in the property. Using an onsite measuring tool, the new gravel driveway will be about 1,850 feet long, which is equivalent to 5 football fields using the longer side.

Gravel Driveway Plan in Google Maps

Existing Landscape Condition

To install the new gravel driveway in this property, the path of the driveway must be cleared from trees and other brushes. However, since the property was undeveloped, there were a lot of trees and brushes along the way.

Google map showing proposed route and trees and bushes in the way.

trees that have been earmarked for removal

Existing Water Challenges

Observed also in the property was the presence of a large creek and some pond water across the path of the driveway.

Project Details

Project Methodology

For this project, we implemented a segmented approach to the gravel driveway installation, allowing us to see each completed portion bit by bit. By dividing the project into smaller segments, we were able to focus on the unique challenges at each stage.

Our segmented approach also allowed us to optimize the schedule for gravel deliveries. This careful planning allowed us to maintain a smooth and efficient construction process while minimizing disruptions.

The following are the services we provided and their corresponding scopes to address the project’s challenges.

Land Clearing

Land clearing was the first step in preparing the site for construction. We removed all vegetation, including trees, stumps, and brush, to create a clean and unobstructed area for the gravel driveway.

For this project, approximately 70 trees obstructed the driveway’s path. We carefully removed the smaller and thinner trees together with their roots. Some trees were cut down using chainsaws, leaving the stumps in place, which were then excavated afterward.

two heavy machines working on a gravel road

All removed trees, along with their branches and other debris, were efficiently hauled off-site for proper disposal and recycling.

Land Grading

Given the irregular terrain and depressions caused by the removal of tree stumps, we ensured that the ground was properly leveled and compacted in preparation for the driveway.

Excavation & Trenching

For this project, we excavated a trench on the property to accommodate culvert pipes, ensuring they are securely positioned and aligned.

Culvert Pipe Installation

Culvert pipe installation was essential to address the natural water flow challenges posed by a creek and running water on the property. By strategically placing these pipes, we effectively divert water away from the driveway, safeguarding the driveway from flooding, ensuring proper drainage, and preserving the surrounding landscape.

First Culvert Pipe Installation at the Entrance of the Driveway

Our first culvert pipe, measuring 15 inches in diameter, was installed at the entrance of the driveway. This initial installation plays a crucial role in managing surface water and preventing potential erosion right at the property’s entrance.

Second Culvert Pipe Installation at the Creek

The second culvert pipe was installed in the area where the creek is located. This impressive pipe, 48 inches in diameter and 20 feet long, is the largest culvert we have handled since the company’s inception.

The skid steer looks like a toy. Check out the video here:

By the way, this large culvert was transported using one of Renegade Rentals’ trailers. If you need a trailer for transporting vehicles, boats, or materials, we highly recommend reaching out to them via website or thru their Facebook page.

Third Culvert Pipe Installation at the Water Ponding Area

The third culvert pipe was placed in a location where minimal water ponding was observed, and the ground was notably soft. To prevent future water accumulation and potential ground instability, we decided to install a 12-inch culvert pipe here.

Gravel Driveway Installation

After grading the subgrade, we were ready to install the gravel driveway. The first step in our process was to install a geotextile driveway fabric, specifically designed for driveway applications. This fabric plays a crucial role in mitigating potholes and preventing gravel migration, ensuring the driveway remains durable and stable over time.

Once the geotextile fabric was securely in place, we proceeded to lay down 2-inch gravel. You might be wondering why we chose this particular size. This gravel driveway will serve as a construction driveway, requiring it to support heavy loads from trucks of the utility companies. The 2-inch gravel is optimal for this purpose, providing robust support and reducing settlement, especially when combined with the geotextile fabric.

You can also view the completed gravel driveway in video:

After the utility companies have completed their work on this property, our client will reach out to us for a gravel driveway refresher. This involves adding 5/8-inch gravel, which is finer than the initial layer, to create a smoother surface. This final touch ensures the driveway is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

Customer Testimonial

You may check out other testimonials and reviews from other clients here.

Conclusion and Call to Action

With the new gravel driveway now completed, utility company trucks can begin their work on our client’s property, paving the way for their new home. This marks the start of an exciting journey for the homeowner, and we’re proud to be part of their vision for building their dream home.

We’d like to extend our thanks to the team, especially Bob Reome, our Estimating and Sales Head, for successfully closing this project. Special recognition goes to Daniel, who led the team and played a key role in bringing this project to fruition. We also want to give a shoutout to Renegade Rentals for providing the trailers we used for transporting our heavy equipment (excavator, skid steer) and materials (culvert pipes).

This project showcased our range of services, demonstrating our capability as a full-service landscape excavation and sitework contractor. We are dedicated to transforming your property according to your vision.

We offer comprehensive services including land clearing, land grading, excavation and trenching, culvert pipe installation, drainage solutions, gravel driveways, asphalt driveways, concrete garage foundations, concrete pads, and gravel pads. Proudly serving Niagara, Erie, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Monroe, Livingston, Wayne, and Ontario counties in New York.

If you’re planning a project and need reliable excavation and sitework services, contact us TODAY to see how we can bring your vision to life!

We care about the customer experience and we’re dedicated to demonstrating excellence in all facets of our business. DC Makes it EASY!

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