A common question our customers ask is how to use a gravel grid.

In this guide, we will look in particular at how to install an EcoGrid E40 Ground Reinforcement System. This product is exclusive to Drainage Superstore and comes highly recommended by groundworkers.

That’s not all. Other products like the ACO GroundGuard and Gravelgrid Reinforcement Grids are also available. You can install these in a similar fashion.


Table of contents


How to install a gravel grid

A driveway gravel grid or really any gravel grid installation can do wonders for the appearance of your landscape. It can also be practical, too, by creating a level surface to walk and drive on when needed.

So, how do create a gravel grid system?

Here’s your step-by-step guide for how to lay gravel grids.

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Step one: Prepare the ground

First, dig out the area required. Make sure that the ground isn’t too soft and suitable for the gravel grid to fit into. As standard, each pack comes in 10m² size.

young green wheat and plowed field landscape autumn season

Step two: Lay down geotextile membrane

Next, lay down a layer of geotextile membrane. This prevents the area from flooding and ensures that it stays sturdy.

roll of geotextile membrane on soil

Step three: Lay down and pin the gravel grid

Stretch out the gravel grid and pin one end into the ground. Then, slowly stretch the grid to the other end and pin it into place.

gravel grid on top of geotextile membrane

Step four: Fill in the gaps

Fill each end of the grid with a handful of aggregate to make sure it sits in place. Use a timber board to ensure that the grid is in constant contact with the ground when doing so.

Use the correct size infill material for the cell size. Limit the drop height to no more than 1 metre. Regardless of whether you’re using a wheelbarrow or a machine, take your time to ensure that the infill material does not ‘lift’ the cells.

Spread the infill material equally over the surface and make sure that each cell is fully filled using a shovel or rake.

Please be aware that only crushed, angular gravel should be used to fill the cells. Pea shingle or cobble-type products only work as a decorative surcharge on top of the grid.

gravel in grid holes

Step five: Add the finishing touches

You must add a top layer of material on top of the grid, especially in trafficked areas like car parks. This could be a roll of grass, for example.

If the top layer is a different material than the internal cell infill, you must fill the cells to capacity and allow room for any extra movement. You can use a hand roller to achieve the final compression of the infill material.

Being factory-made from a geotextile material, the edges of EcoGrid system are very narrow and, as such, not clearly visible. However, it is always advised to maintain the suggested surcharge on top of the area to shield the edges from car wheels.

Landscaping combinations of grass, plant and stones


Can you lay gravel grids on soil?

You can, but for optimum performance, it’s best to lay down a membrane to minimise flooding and create a strong surface for the gravel grid.

If you’re wondering where to buy gravel grids, membranes and other key project tools for this project type, look right here at Drainage Superstore. We’ve got all sorts of landscaping products for you to choose from. Don’t wait to check it out.

Whether you’re looking for a plastic gravel grid or other material, we’ve got you covered.

ACO GroundGuard Ground Reinforcement Grid Tiles

Not using a grid but still want a gravel path? Check out our guide to laying a gravel path! You can also find out more about the benefits of gravel gardens and building a gravel driveway via our other Help and Advice guidance.

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