There are a number of reasons to choose gravel for your garden: the satisfying crunch it makes underfoot, its relatively low cost compared with other hardscaping materials, the environmental benefit of preventing runoff and erosion, and the fact that it looks good with almost any landscape style. It also comes in all kinds of colors and sizes and can be used for gardens, flower beds, drainage projects, pathways patios and so much more. We would like to give you a few suggestions of how to start to determine what your project is all about and what your need to bring the final project together.
How Will You Use the Gravel?
Where do you want to use gravel and what will be its purpose? Is it a walkway? Some gravels (like pea gravel) “roll” underfoot, while others compact to form a more stable surface, making it easier to roll a stroller or wheelchair across a gravel patio. If you want to add stepping stones, options with either small particle sizes (like decomposed granite) or larger stones (like river rock) are less likely to travel up onto the pavers.
What’s Your Budget?
Gravel cost varies widely by type, size and availability. Often going with local gravel or one that’s widely available in your area can cut down on cost. In general, gravel is either sold by the bag (fill it yourself at a landscape supply store), in bulk by the cubic yard (roughly the amount to fill a standard pickup truck), or by the ton. One way to keep costs down is to use gravel and stone local to your region. You’ll save on the cost of trucking in gravel from another region and you’ll use a material that naturally occurs in your area, making a design feel more connected to the site.
Installing a Patio?
Are you mixing gravel with pavers, choose gravel that complements the stone and is made of a texture that will keep it in place. To reduce gravel traveling onto pavers, first install a layer of compacted base rock, then lay down a top layer of gravel and flagstones, positioning flagstones so they are slightly above the gravel. Adding a binding product (washed over the top) after installing the pathway can also help lock gravel in place.
Choose Complementary Colors
A foolproof way to pick a great landscaping stone color is to consider complementary colors. Complementary colors are any two colors opposite each other on the color wheel. For example, if your garden has a lot of purple in it, consider choosing a landscaping stone with more yellow in it. Use lighter tones to brighten a yard or cooler tints to make flowers stand out.
Consider Temperature
Dark black gravel tends to retain heat, while white rock and utility sand tend to reflect hot temperatures. Consider the amount of sun and shade in your outdoor landscape, and choose colors to help manage temperatures throughout the seasons.
Choosing the right material for your project can make a significant impact on the outcome. Carefully consider the characteristics of each material to ensure that you make the best decision for your project. Take some time to get a visual feel of the many ways to incorporate gravel into your outdoor world.
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About Bray Topsoil & Gravel
Topsoil and gravel delivered to you by Bray Trucking, a specialized aggregate hauler servicing the Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana region.
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