Driveway Crushed Gravel Options

Gravel Sizes

• Gravel is a general term that refers to river rocks, pebbles and other crushed stones from quarries. Small gravel contains a mix of stone dust and pieces that measure three-eighths of an inch and less. In landscaping, small gravel is used in areas with good drainage because it compacts into a nearly solid surface. Medium gravel measure up to three-fourths of an inch and works as a supportive base or surface because the rocks leave just enough space for water to permeate. Large gravel measures more than 1 ¼ inches and is too unstable to use alone for a driveway. Gravel driveways typically use large or medium gravel as the base with a layer of small gravel on top.

Types of Gravel

• Pea gravel, river rocks, crushed granite and other stones offer a range of color options. Pea gravel is often brown, translucent or white and has a smooth, round shape. River rocks come in an array of colors including green, red, orange, grey and polished black, and form a strong decorative surface. Use rocks of different sizes for visual interest. Compact the subsoil and base layer to make the rocks as stable as possible.

Decomposed Granite

• Loose gravel takes the shape of the site you pour it in, and forms a water-permeable surface. If you're working with decomposed granite and prefer a driveway with a more polished look, consider adding a resin over the surface of the rocks once they are spread and compacted. Resin hardens to the rocks and forms a solid surface to prevent the gravel from eroding or tracking away.

Edging

• Once a gravel driveway is in place, there are still a number of ways to embellish it while reducing maintenance. Install edging on the perimeter of the driveway to contain the rocks and define the shape of the driveway. Use bricks, fieldstones or timber edging to tie the driveway into other areas of the yard and create a more unified look.