Frequently asked questions about dirt roads

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Washboarding or corrugation is the formation of periodic, transverse ripples in the surface of gravel and dirt roads.

Corrugations on a dirt road are simply small sand dunes. The action of a car driving over the road at speed causes wind to blow across the dirt particles, just as on the beach, and relocation of the dirt particles occurs to form small indentations in the road.

Slowing down often helps minimise the effect of corrugated roads on your vehicle and caravan. Most experts recommend a speed of 60–80 km/h. In many vehicles, the sweet spot will be around 60km/h. This is because driving excessively quickly puts a lot of pressure on a vehicle's shock absorbers.

You want a dry and stable base, so soils with high clay content or moisture are not suitable. The road top should have the best quality gravel consisting of a combination of fractured stone, sand and fine particles with a binding characteristic to form a smooth, firm surface.

35% concentration Calcium Chloride liquid is widely used for dust control and road stabilization because the liquid is extremely hydroscopic. Calcium chloride attracts moisture from the air, keeping the road damp even under hot, dry conditions.