Pea Gravel Overview
What is pea gravel made of? Pea gravel is typically made of river rock with smooth, rounded edges caused by erosion and natural weathering. 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. Colors range from browns and grays to more eye-catching colors like red and blue- which can either complement or contrast landscaping and foliage depending on your desired outcome. Affordability, size, texture, and color make it a popular landscaping gravel for above-ground projects.
What is pea gravel used for?
Since it has a smooth finish, pea grave is regularly used for gravel paths, dog runs, playgrounds, patios, gardens, and similar applications. Another common use is pea gravel for drainage for underground projects such as pipe bedding.
There are many different types of gravel, and each has its own unique properties. For example, don’t get confused when talking about pea gravel vs river rock. Pea gravel is the smallest type of river rock, and the term “river rock” usually refers to larger stones. When looking at pea gravel vs crushed stone, the key difference is found in the names. Crushed stone is literally rocks that have been smashed, so there is no consistency in the shape, and there are often sharper edges and a rough texture to them. Pea gravel is small, smooth, and more consistent in shape from piece to piece.
How Much Pea Gravel Do You Need?
The answer depends on the size and depth of your project. You can use our materials calculator to determine how much to order or one of our knowledgeable customer service team can assist you.
Ozinga sells bulk pea gravel by the ton with pickup and delivery options available.
Pea Gravel Landscaping Applications
Gravel Driveways
A popular, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to asphalt driveways. The smooth, colorful stones increase curb appeal, and if properly maintained, can last a lifetime
Gravel Walkways / Paths
3/8″ pea stone is an ideal choice for gravel paths. Because the pebbles are small and the edges are rounded, it’s softer and more comfortable to walk on than crushed gravel options
Dog Runs
Aggregates with smooth edges are necessary when building a dog run to protect a dog’s paws. Gravel also provides proper drainage and will last much longer than grass
Playground Surface
Pea stone gravel’s lack of sharp edges and ability to absorb shock increase safety for children in the event of a fall. It’s also hygienic since it’s not prone to bacterial growth
Patio Gravel
Low cost, great looks, and ease of installation- perfect for DIY projects. Design flexibility is another major advantage of a gravel patio since it can be used in conjunction with pavers and poured into any landscaping shape
Mulch Material
Pea gravel prevents the growth of weeds, helps control moisture and drainage, and lasts significantly longer than organic mulch
Commercial Applications of Pea Gravel
Drainage Gravel & Pipe Bedding
Using landscaping gravel, such as pea gravel, for pipe bedding helps protect the pipe from breaks while also providing a drainage bed. It’s also beneficial for drainage applications because it’s resistant to moisture and controls soil erosion
Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Pea gravel is often used in exposed aggregate concrete to create an attractive, textured finish
Common Questions
It’s often used to create gravel paths and walkways, playgrounds, driveways, and dog runs. Pea gravel can also be used as mulch since it prevents the growth of weeds, controls moisture, and lasts longer than traditional mulch.
It can be used as tank backfill, pipe bedding, and for drainage. Pea gravel is also used in ready mix concrete and exposed aggregate concrete.
Ozinga’s gravel calculator makes it easy to estimate how much pea gravel is required for your application.
Ozinga sells bulk pea gravel by the ton. It can be delivered directly to your job site. Contact us today for a quote and to schedule delivery.
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