The 3 Best Types of Gravel For Your Driveway

Gravel grading by size is common, and most driveways layer three types of gravel for a solid foundation and effective drainage. Gravel driveways are relatively inexpensive and easy to install as a DIY project. Your decision if you choose to install a gravel driveway would probably be based on availability, cost, appearance, and drainage. The popular gravel choices are river rock, dense grade, and pea gravel. In this article we would like to discuss those three gravel choices.

River Rock

“River rock” encompasses a variety of stones shaped by water movement, offering a range of sizes, colors, and textures. Their smoothness results from water exposure, providing a natural appearance. However, for driveways with steep slopes, inclines, or curves, caution is advised due to their tendency to shift under vehicle weight despite their aesthetic appeal. Prices for river rock fluctuate based on location, season, and availability, so it’s advisable to compare prices to secure the best deal.

Dense Grade

Dense Grade, also known as quarry stone, is a compact aggregate comprising small, crushed stones (3/4-inch or less) mixed with stone dust. Typically made from materials like limestone, granite-gneiss, or trap rock, it’s designed to bind tightly and create a sturdy surface when compacted. While practical, it lacks aesthetic appeal, with stones mixed heavily with gravel dust to promote compaction and form a semi-solid surface. However, this composition makes it less effective as drainage gravel in wet climates. Pricing for dense grade varies based on market conditions, availability, and quarry proximity.

Pea Gravel

Pea gravel is typically 3/8″ in size, known for its smooth, rounded texture and natural weathering. Available in various colors, from neutral browns and grays to vibrant reds and blues, it resembles river rock but lacks vehicle instability. Its rounded stones don’t interlock like crushed stone, making it a superior option for drainage as water can flow freely between the rocks compared to quarry stone.

Choosing the right gravel is important, but proper site preparation is even more vital. Before you lay any gravel, you must remove the top soil and use it somewhere else on your property. The topsoil contains lots of organic matter, which is great for growing plants, but creates a spongy, unstable subsurface for a driveway. Hardpan, the layer beneath topsoil, is, as the name implies, dense and hard. It creates a much better foundation for your driveway.

Bray Topsoil & Gravel can deliver our gravel and topsoil to you in the Greater Cincinnati Area!

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