Comprehensive Gravel Size Chart for Every Application
Gravel is useful for all kinds of projects, from serving as a functional base material for construction projects to providing a clean look in landscaping projects.
However, choosing the right size for your project is critical to get lasting results. Our gravel size chart will help you understand how to select the appropriate material for your application.
Understanding Different Types of Gravel
At Select Sand & Gravel, we offer a full range of gravel products. This gravel size chart highlights the different sizes and common terms used to describe them so that you can easily find the product to meet your specific needs.
| Material | Typical Use | Size Range |
|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel | Paths, Gardens, Outdoor Spaces in need of good drainage! | 3/8" to 5/8" |
| Crushed Stone | Driveways, roadsides, commercial uses | 3/4" to 5" |
| Large Gravel/River Rock | Erosion control, landscaping | 1" to 8" |
dIf you're not sure which of these sizes is right for your project, this comprehensive guide will help you learn more about the specific applications each is used for.
Pea Gravel for Paths and Gardens
Pea gravel typically consists of small stones ranging from 3/16" to 3/8". It offers a smooth texture that makes it a great choice for walking paths, garden beds, and other outdoor spaces. It's easy on your feet, providing functional and beautiful surfaces.
This material also offers good drainage properties in these applications. Water can flow freely without displacing the smaller-size gravel, ensuring your paths and garden beds hold up well. You can choose from a variety of options to match the visual appeal of your property.
Crushed Stone for Driveway Gravel
Crushed stones ranging from 3/8" to 1.5" are commonly used as a foundation for driveways, roads, and parking lots. The angular edges lock together well, ensuring good compaction and lasting resistance to erosion.
You'll find many driveways throughout the United States with this type of gravel stone foundation due to its proven effectiveness.
This coarse gravel is an excellent choice for a variety of drainage systems and foundations. The durable material is recyclable as well, minimizing the environmental impact of your project. You'll find it used in both residential and commercial applications.
The size of the gravel within this range varies quite a bit, so you can fine-tune the choice to achieve a solid foundation.
Large Size Gravel for Erosion Control
Larger stones ranging from 1.5" to 4" are used in a wide range of heavy-duty applications. These larger gravel sizes are perfect for erosion control and retaining walls, finding use in many construction projects.
The particle size prevents movement when water flows through, providing drainage while avoiding erosion.
At the larger end of this versatile material, you'll find irregular stones and rock fragments that are used in many erosion control applications, even along shorelines and riverbanks. The larger size maximizes stability and longevity, making it among the most common types of materials used in erosion control.
Screenings and Fine Gravel
Screenings and fine gravel have a very small size below 1/8". These materials can be used in a wide range of applications, such as in concrete mixes or for final grading beneath pavers.
They have excellent compaction, allowing for a smooth and stable surface, and they play a key role in many landscaping projects. However, limited drainage means they must be applied carefully to avoid washout.
How to Choose the Right Material for Your Project
Consulting our gravel size chart can help you find the perfect match for your project. Each of these different grave sizes has its own applications. You can also talk to the team at Select Sand & Gravel for help making an informed decision.
Reach out today for more information about our products.