Gravel vs Pea Gravel vs Crushed Stone Calculator
Compare the uses, costs, and characteristics of gravel, pea gravel, and crushed stone. Use our calculator to estimate the coverage, weight, and total cost for your landscaping, driveway, or construction project.
Crushed Gravel vs Pea Gravel: Side-by-Side Comparison
Choosing the right aggregate is crucial for project success. Here is a side-by-side comparison of the three most common types.
| Feature | Crushed Stone | Pea Gravel | General Gravel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shape | Angular, rough | Round, smooth | Mixed |
| Size Range | 1/4" - 2.5" | 1/8" - 3/8" | 1/4" - 2" |
| Density | 1.35 tons/cu yd | 1.20 tons/cu yd | 1.25 tons/cu yd |
| Avg Price/Ton | $40 - $65 | $30 - $55 | $25 - $50 |
| Compaction | Excellent | Poor | Moderate |
| Drainage | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Best For | Driveways, bases | Landscaping, paths | Drainage, fill |
| Walkable Barefoot? | No | Yes | No |
Understanding the Differences
Crushed Stone
Crushed stone is made by mechanically crushing larger rocks, resulting in angular pieces with rough edges. This shape allows it to lock together tightly when compacted, providing excellent stability. It's the preferred choice for driveways, road bases, and drainage systems.
Pea Gravel
Pea gravel consists of small, smooth, rounded stones, typically 3/8 inch in diameter. Its comfortable texture makes it ideal for decorative landscaping, playgrounds, and walkways. However, its smoothness means it doesn't compact well and can shift easily.
General Gravel
Gravel is a broad category of naturally weathered rock fragments, often a mix of sizes and shapes. It's commonly used for drainage applications, as a base for patios, and in some low-traffic pathways. It offers a balance between cost and functionality.
Gravel Coverage Quick Reference
How much area does 1 ton of each material cover at common depths?
| Material | 2" Depth | 3" Depth | 4" Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crushed Stone | 100 sq ft | 67 sq ft | 50 sq ft |
| Pea Gravel | 108 sq ft | 72 sq ft | 54 sq ft |
| General Gravel | 104 sq ft | 69 sq ft | 52 sq ft |
Related Tools & Guides
Explore our other construction and landscaping calculators to plan your project thoroughly:
- Concrete Calculator — Calculate cubic yards or bags needed for slabs and footings.
- Crushed Stone Calculator — Estimate crushed stone volume, weight, and cost.
- Pea Gravel Calculator — Calculate pea gravel needed for your project.
- Paver Calculator — Determine the number of pavers and base material required.
- All Project Guides — Browse our full library of how-to guides and comparison articles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between gravel, pea gravel, and crushed stone?
Gravel is a general term for rock fragments, often naturally rounded and smooth. Pea gravel is a specific type of small, smooth, rounded gravel about the size of a pea. Crushed stone is mechanically broken rock with sharp, angular edges, providing better compaction and stability for driveways and foundations.
Which is better for a driveway: gravel or crushed stone?
Crushed stone is far superior for driveways. Its angular edges lock together when compacted, creating a stable, durable surface that resists shifting and rutting. Smooth gravel or pea gravel will roll under vehicle tires, leading to an uneven surface and requiring frequent maintenance.
How much does a ton of gravel cover?
Coverage depends on the depth. A general rule is that one ton of gravel covers approximately 100 square feet at a 2-inch depth. For a 3-inch depth, it covers about 80 square feet. Use our calculator above for precise estimates based on your specific project area and desired depth.
Can I mix crushed stone and pea gravel?
Yes, but use them in separate layers. A common approach is to use crushed stone (#57 or #411) as the compacted base layer (4-6 inches), then add 2-3 inches of pea gravel on top as the finished surface. This gives you the structural stability of crushed stone with the comfortable, attractive surface of pea gravel.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
A proper gravel driveway needs 4-6 inches of compacted crushed stone base, with an optional 2-inch top layer of smaller gravel. For heavy vehicle traffic, use 8-12 inches total depth. Always use angular crushed stone, never smooth pea gravel, for driveway surfaces.