Gravel and landscape rock are a practical and versatile way to accent your landscaping. It can be used to line your driveway, walkway, a parking lot or for gardening to give your landscape an aesthetic appeal.

No matter what you plan to use the gravel for, if it is your first time purchasing this type of materials, you may not know where to start your search for the right type gravel.

At Treesdale Landscaping, we’ve put together a guide on how to buy gravel and landscape rock for your next project.

What to Consider Before You Buy

Before you buy gravel or landscape rock, it is essential to know how much gravel you need for your project. If you buy too much, you end up wasting money, but if you buy too little, you’re left to make another trip to the landscape supply yard.

Typically, pathways and driveways will need about two to four inches of depth, and they will also require a base. If you plan to fill in a rectangular space, you can multiply the width of the area by the length and the thickness to determine the cubic yards of material that you will need.

Once you know how much gravel you need, you will have to decide whether you want to buy the gravel or rock in bags or bulk. Buying in gravel in bulk is the most economical option. You will have the option to purchase gravel in full ton, half-ton, or three-quarters-of-a-ton. When you buy in bulk, you will be charged per ton of gravel, which will be delivered to your home in a truck.

Keep in mind when gravel is bought by the bag, you typically have to transport it yourself.

Choosing the Right Gravel or Landscape Rock for Your Project

When it comes to choosing gravel, it is important to find one that will work best for the job you need it to do. Here are a few common types of landscape rock and gravel to consider:

Pea Gravel

This type of gravel is about the size of peas and is slightly rounded. It can be used for walkways and paths, providing long-lasting coverage. This type of gravel comes in a wide selection of colors, and prices vary based on the color you choose. It is typically used to mulch bare areas or is used under xeriscape plants.

Crushed Stone

Crushed stone is available in a wide range of colors. Like with river rock, it’s essential to lay down landscaping fabric to help prevent weeds and make maintenance easier. If weeds do appear, be sure to pull them and treat them with a herbicide.

Decomposed Granite

This type of rock is a combination of silt and tiny rocks. This combination offers a very fine texture, making it a common option for pathways or patios. Decomposed granite is usually an affordable and long-lasting option. It can be installed in layers and compacted for a more durable installation. The fine pieces of this granite can be tracked into your home, so to prevent this, you can add a stabilizer to the stone. This will help to glue the pieces together.

Quality Landscape Supply Yard and Gravel Delivery

At Treesdale Landscaping, we have a fully stocked landscape supply yard with a range of gravel to choose from for your next project. In addition to our wide selection of mulch, topsoil, stone, sand, and gravel, we also offer delivery services where we will deliver your purchase of bulk gravel right to your door.