Pea Gravel vs. Crushed Stone Pros and Cons
When it comes to choosing the right construction material for your landscaping projects, the debate between pea gravel vs. crushed stone is a common one. Each material offers unique benefits depending on your needs.
Whether you’re considering a pea gravel patio, a gravel pit, or house borders, it’s essential to understand the differences and best applications for pea gravel and crushed stone.
What Is Pea Gravel?
Pea gravel is made up of small stones, typically between ⅛ and ⅜ of an inch in size. These stones have rounded edges, giving them a smooth, polished appearance. This type of gravel is often used in landscaping projects where aesthetics are a priority, like in flower beds or for creating a pea gravel patio. Because of its small size and rounded edges, pea gravel is comfortable to walk on, making it a popular choice for walkways and paths.
Similar to crushed concrete, another advantage of pea gravel is its excellent drainage. Its rounded shape allows water to flow through easily, which helps prevent puddling and ensures proper drainage in your landscaping projects. However, because the stones are small, they can shift over time, which may require occasional maintenance to keep them in place.
What Is Crushed Stone?
Crushed stone, on the other hand, is made by mechanically crushing larger rocks, such as limestone or granite, into smaller pieces. The resulting product has jagged edges, which help it lock together when compacted. This characteristic makes crushed stone an ideal construction material for applications requiring a stable and firm surface, such as driveways, gravel pits, or under concrete slabs.
Similar to concrete and brick pavers, crushed stone is also available in various sizes, ranging from fine particles to large rocks. This versatility allows it to be used in a wide range of landscaping projects, from creating sturdy house borders to filling in gravel pits. The most common types of crushed stone include crushed limestone and crushed granite, each offering different colors and textures to complement your design.
While crushed stone is less visually appealing than pea gravel due to its jagged edges, it provides better stability and is less likely to shift over time. Its rough texture helps to prevent weed growth, making it a practical choice for areas where minimal maintenance is desired.
Pea Gravel Patio vs. Crushed Stone Patio
A pea gravel patio is softer underfoot and has a more relaxed, casual look, and is also better for hot climates. It is perfect for areas where comfort and aesthetics are more important than stability. However, because of its tendency to shift, you may need to install a border to keep the pea stone in place.
On the other hand, a crushed stone patio offers a more structured, formal appearance. Its jagged edges lock together to create a stable surface that is less likely to shift, making it a better choice for high-traffic areas or locations where heavy furniture will be placed. The excellent drainage properties of crushed gravel make it suitable for areas where water runoff is a concern, making sure that your patio remains dry and usable even after heavy rain.
For an alternative comparison, consider checking out our guide on gravel vs pebble to help you make the best decision.
Crushed Granite vs. Decomposed Granite
If you’re considering using natural stone in your landscaping projects, crushed granite and decomposed granite are two popular options. Crushed granite is similar to crushed stone, with jagged edges and a sturdy, stable structure. It is often used for paths, driveways, and patios where a more natural stone look is desired.
Decomposed granite, on the other hand, is made from weathered and crumbled granite rock. It has a finer texture than crushed granite, almost like a sandy gravel, and is often used for creating a soft, natural look in landscaping projects. While it provides a firm surface, decomposed granite is less durable than crushed granite and may require occasional replenishment.
| Feature | Pea Gravel | Crushed Stone |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Rounded edges, smooth, polished look | Jagged edges, rough texture |
| Comfort | Softer underfoot, ideal for walkways | Less comfortable, but more stable |
| Stability | Can shift over time, may require a border | Locks together when compacted, more stable |
| Drainage | Excellent drainage, prevents puddling | Good drainage, prevents water runoff |
| Best for | Paths, patios, flower beds, house borders | Driveways, gravel pits, under concrete slabs |
| Weed Prevention | Somewhat effective, may need additional control | Highly effective due to compacted nature |
| Maintenance | Occasional raking, replenishing every few years | Less maintenance, compacting after heavy use |
Maintenance Tips for Pea Gravel and Crushed Stone
Crushed concrete and gravel aren’t just limited to driveways and paths – they’re both incredibly versatile materials that can be used in a variety of ways around your home or property.
Pea Gravel Maintenance
Maintaining pea gravel in your landscaping projects is relatively simple but requires occasional attention to keep it looking its best. Over time, pea gravel can shift, especially in high-traffic areas or on sloped surfaces. Here are some tips to keep your pea gravel in top condition:
- Replenish Pea Gravel as Needed: Due to its small size, pea gravel may gradually spread or get lost. To maintain the desired depth and appearance, consider adding fresh gravel every few years.
- Install a Solid Border: Installing a sturdy border around your pea gravel area can help keep the stones contained and prevent them from spreading into unwanted areas.
- Weed Control: Although pea gravel provides some weed suppression, weeds can still grow over time. Regularly remove any emerging weeds by hand or apply a natural weed suppressant.
- Leveling and Raking: Occasionally rake the pea gravel to redistribute the stones evenly and maintain a smooth, even surface. This also helps to fill in any areas where the gravel has thinned out.
Maintenance Tips for Crushed Stone
Crushed stone requires less maintenance compared to pea gravel due to its stability and durability. However, to ensure it remains in good condition, follow these maintenance tips:
- Compact the Surface: After installation, make sure the crushed stone is properly compacted to prevent shifting and to create a stable surface. Re-compaction may be necessary after heavy use or seasonal changes.
- Remove Debris: Regularly remove any debris, such as leaves or dirt, that can accumulate on the surface. This helps prevent organic matter from breaking down and creating a breeding ground for weeds.
- Weed Prevention: Crushed stone is generally effective at suppressing weed growth due to its compacted nature and jagged edges. However, occasional weed removal or applying a weed barrier underneath the stone can further minimize weed intrusion.
- Addressing Erosion: In areas where water runoff is prevalent, monitor the crushed stone for any signs of erosion. If necessary, add more crushed stone to areas where the surface has become uneven or thin.
More to read on the topic: Outdoor Tiles vs Pavers Pros And Cons
FAQ
Pea gravel has rounded edges and is more comfortable to walk on, while crushed stone has jagged edges, offering better stability for construction projects.
It depends on your needs. Pea gravel is softer underfoot and aesthetically pleasing, while crushed stone provides a more stable, durable surface.
It’s recommended to add fresh pea gravel every few years to maintain depth and appearance, especially in high-traffic areas.
Yes, the compacted, jagged nature of crushed stone helps to suppress weeds, though occasional maintenance may be needed.
Absolutely. Crushed granite is an excellent choice for creating sturdy, natural-looking pathways in your landscaping projects.
Trust Our Experts To Guide You
Choosing between pea gravel and crushed stone depends on your specific project needs, whether you’re creating a patio, pathway, or any other landscaping project. Both materials offer unique advantages, from the soft, rounded edges of pea gravel to the durable, stable nature of crushed stone. Whichever you choose, regular maintenance will keep your outdoor space looking great for years to come.
Ready to transform your landscape? Contact Legacy Outdoor Services today for expert advice and professional installation. If you live in Texas, Brazos County or nearby, give us a call at (979) 575-6019 or contact us via our contact page.