Top 5 Signs Your Driveway Needs Regrading This Summer
Your driveway works hard every season, especially in Manitoba’s extreme weather conditions. Over time, gravel driveways and approaches begin to show signs of wear that can’t be fixed with a simple top-up of gravel. Here are five key indicators that your driveway needs professional regrading this summer.
1. Standing Water or Puddles After Rain
If you notice water pooling in areas instead of draining off your driveway, it’s a clear sign the slope or crown has flattened out. Standing water:
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Weakens your driveway base
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Leads to potholes and washouts
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Causes erosion and uneven surfaces
Summer regrading reshapes the driveway to restore proper drainage.
2. Potholes and Ruts Are Forming
Potholes don’t just look bad – they damage vehicles and worsen over time as water seeps in. Ruts from vehicle traffic are also a sign that:
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Gravel has shifted away from high-traffic areas
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The base layer may be uneven
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Compaction needs to be redone
Regrading levels out your driveway and fills low areas to restore strength.
3. Gravel Keeps Washing Away
Heavy rainfall or spring runoff can wash gravel off your driveway, especially if the grading isn’t directing water properly. If you’re constantly adding gravel that keeps disappearing, it’s time to:
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Rebuild the slope and crown for drainage
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Compact and lock gravel in place effectively
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Install or repair culverts if needed
4. Driveway Feels Uneven When Driving
If you feel bumps, dips, or a side-to-side tilt while driving, it indicates your driveway surface and base have shifted. Regrading corrects:
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Uneven spots that cause vehicle strain
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Tilted areas that direct water where it shouldn’t go
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Safety hazards for both vehicles and foot traffic
5. Weeds and Grass Are Taking Over
When your driveway starts turning into a grassy path, it usually means:
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The gravel is too thin to block weed growth
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There are low areas holding moisture, encouraging vegetation
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Maintenance and regrading have been overdue
Regrading with fresh gravel and proper compaction restores your driveway to a clean, usable surface.
Book Your Driveway Regrading Before Fall
If you notice any of these signs, summer is the best time to get your driveway regraded. At Terrace Excavation, we provide:
✅ Precise laser grading
✅ Gravel supply and compacting
✅ Base preparation and culvert installation if needed
Don’t wait until potholes and erosion damage your driveway beyond repair.