Whether you’re looking to add some landscaping or are trying to find the best aggregate for a project, two popular options you will consider are crushed stone and pea gravel. Some people may believe that these two products are interchangeable, and while each can be used for similar applications, they’re not entirely the same.
To the untrained eye, crushed stone and pea gravel may both just be some form of rock, but each one serves its own purpose and has its own specific set of uses. From shape and size, to applications, to even cost, these two materials are different. Thankfully, if you’re stuck in the crushed stone vs. pea gravel debate, we’ll clarify it all for you below.
What are the size and shape differences?
When you compare the two, the biggest differences you’ll notice are the sizes and shapes. Although gravel can come in a variety of sizes, pea gravel is typically 3/8”. Itis often softer to the touch too, thanks to its rounded and smooth sides. Plus, pea gravel comes in a variety of different colors, including neutral colors like brown and gray, as well as more eye-catching colors like red and blue.
Crushed stone is available in a variety of sizes, from 3/8” to 4”. Because it is literally crushed stone, there is no consistency to its shape. The edges tend to be sharper and it feels rougher to the touch than pea gravel. Also, most crushed stone will either be in a white or gray hue, giving you a more neutral look than the colorful pea gravel.
What is crushed stone used for?
There are many different uses for crushed stone, but it is typically used as an aggregate for underground projects. Many contractors prefer to use ½” or ¾” crushed stone as a subbase material before pouring concrete. Since it’s durable, it is also regularly used for backfill, drainage solutions, or pipe bedding. Larger crushed stone, such as CA6 or CA5, is typically used for parking lots, driveways, shoulder stone, or railroad ballast. While it is typically found in underground applications, there are some people who opt to use crushed stone for landscape beds or as decorative rock around walkways.
With crushed stone, it’s important to consider its texture. Crushed stone can be easily tamped or rolled into place, which creates a more stable surface for areas such as driveways. However, because it has rougher edges, it may not be the best choice for areas such as playgrounds or dog runs.
What is pea gravel used for?
Because of its size, texture, and color, pea gravel is typically used for more above-ground projects and applications. Many home and building owners opt to use pea gravel to accent gardens or flower beds. The different color options allow pea gravel to complement the landscaping or to stand out from the foliage. Since it has a smooth finish, pea gravel is also regularly used for walkways, dog runs, playgrounds, patios, and a variety of other high-traffic areas. Like crushed stone, pea gravel can also be used for underground projects, such as drainage and pipe bedding. It’s also a good choice when looking for fence post installation aggregate.
When considering pea gravel, it’s important to understand how its size can impact a project. Because it’s small, pea gravel will move easily if not edged properly. If you’re going to add it to a walkway or a flower bed, be sure that you have concrete blocks or landscape trim set up to keep the pea gravel in place. It’s also important to note that pea gravel will retain heat, which can be bad for some plants. If you want to use this in a garden or flower bed, be sure you chooseplants that will last in pea gravel, such as Spanish poppy, evergreens, and even thyme.
What is the cost difference?
The cost of pea gravel and crushed stone will vary depending on where you live, the specific type, and how much of that product you will need. To determine exactly how much each option would cost for your specific project, it’s a good idea to get amaterials price estimatefrom a local supplier. This way, you’ll be able to determine exactly which option is the most cost-effective for your project.
Knowing the difference between crushed stone and pea gravel can ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish. If you have questions, be sure tocontact a materials specialistfor more detailed information on the right product to choose.
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FAQs
Crushed stone is available in a variety of sizes, from 3/8” to 4”. Because it is literally crushed stone, there is no consistency to its shape. The edges tend to be sharper and it feels rougher to the touch than pea gravel.
Is pea gravel the same as crushed stone? ›
Though they are very different in their look as well as purpose. If you haven't already guessed, pea gravel is the smaller of the two gravels. Pea gravel is also smoother, and rounder compared to crushed stone. The colors also vary between the crushed stone and pea gravel.
Are gravel and crushed stone the same? ›
Gravel is a material of naturally occurring loose stone chunks with rounded edges. You can find it occurring naturally, perhaps in a gravel pit or river. Crushed stone, on the other hand, is manufactured. Large rocks (often limestone) are processed in a stone crusher to make smaller pieces.
What is another name for pea gravel? ›
Pea Gravel Overview
The name “pea” refers to its size—usually 3/8″ in diameter, roughly the size of, well, a pea. It goes by many names including CM16, pea stone, pea pebbles, pea rock, and pea stone gravel.
Why not use pea gravel? ›
Mobility: Due to its round and smooth shape, pea gravel can easily shift underfoot, which can lead to instability in walkways or patios. This mobility can also make it challenging for outdoor furniture to stay stable. Weed Growth: While pea gravel can deter some weed growth, it's not a foolproof solution.
What is pea gravel best for? ›
Since it has a smooth finish, pea gravel is also regularly used for walkways, dog runs, playgrounds, patios, and a variety of other high-traffic areas. Like crushed stone, pea gravel can also be used for underground projects, such as drainage and pipe bedding.
What type of gravel is best for a driveway? ›
Crushed Limestone
If you want a tried-and-true gravel for your driveway, crushed limestone is a solid choice.
What is crushed stone mainly used for? ›
Crushed stone is used mostly as aggregate for road construction and maintenance. It is also used for making cement and lime and other chemical applications, and in agriculture.
Is gravel better than crushed stone for driveways? ›
Natural gravel is often used in walkways, driveways, and decorative hardscaping for several reasons. First, because gravel typically has a smooth rounded edge from water erosion, it is an easier surface to walk on, especially with bare feet, than jagged crushed stone.
Is gravel cheaper than stone? ›
One of gravel's most significant advantages over paving stones is its dramatically lower cost. Not only is gravel's material cost substantially more affordable than paving stones, but the installation costs and labor fees associated with gravel surfaces are a fraction of what it costs to install paving stones.
Add a Base Stone Layer
Add a 2-inch layer of stone to the base of your shallow trench to form a foundation for your pea gravel. Crushed stone, which is synthetic and comes in various sizes (1-inch diameter stone is perfect for pea gravel installation), is a great choice.
What does a crushed stone look like? ›
Crushed stone is made from rocks that have been broken down by machines called crushers, giving the stones more angular surfaces. This material is produced rather than formed naturally and comes in a variety of sizes ranging from stone dust or screenings to about 12” or larger in diameter.
What is the difference between pea gravel and crushed gravel? ›
Crushed stone gravel has an angular shape. While there are different sizes of gravel, ranging from 3/8″ to 4″, those 3/4″ in size are quite common. Pea gravel is rounded and about pea-sized. Note that stone is always measured on its smallest diameter.
Do I need to put sand under pea gravel? ›
It is recommended that you first lay landscaping fabric then two to three inches of crushed rock or sand and then two to three inches of pea gravel.
Will water drain through pea gravel? ›
The unique size and shape of pea gravel make it particularly efficient for drainage. Its loose, granular structure ensures that water can flow between the gaps with ease. When used as a top layer or foundation, pea gravel acts as a barrier, directing excess water away from areas prone to flooding or pooling.
Does pea gravel need to be compacted? ›
Bedding Material Specifications
In order for the backfill to serve as a solid base for the component, it should be a material such as pea gravel that does not need to be compacted, or it should be installed in lifts and compacted as these layers are installed.
Can pea gravel be used as a paver base? ›
Types of Paver Base Materials
Pea gravel is a smaller size and can be used for both the base and leveling layers but may not provide as much stability as other types of gravel.
Why use pea gravel for drainage? ›
Improve the permeability of soil: Drainage aggregates, such as crushed granite, pea gravel, or limestone, increase the amount of space in the soil, allowing water to flow through more easily.
Does pea gravel stop rats? ›
Install a pea gravel barrier to separate landscaping from the building foundation. Rats dislike burrowing in loose gravel. All food waste from the kitchen, cafeteria, and other areas should be drained and stored in sealed plastic bags.
