Understanding Gravel and Crushed Stone: What Makes Them Different?

When you plan a landscaping project or construction work, you may come across the terms gravel and crushed stone. These two materials may seem similar, but they are different in many ways. Let us explore these differences so you can make the right choice for your needs.

What is Gravel?

Gravel is a natural material made up of loose stones with rounded edges. It is formed by water erosion over time, and it can often be found in riverbeds or gravel pits. This natural process gives gravel a smooth texture, which makes it ideal for decorative uses in landscaping

What is Crushed Stone?

Crushed stone is a man-made material that is created by breaking down larger rocks, such as limestone or granite, into smaller pieces. These pieces are angular and have sharp edges, which makes them perfect for construction and heavy-duty applications.

Differences Between Gravel and Crushed Stone

Gravel and crushed stone differ in how they are formed and how they are used. Gravel forms naturally over time through water erosion, while crushed stone is produced by machines that break large rocks into smaller pieces. The gravel is smooth and rounded, but the crushed stone has sharp edges. Gravel is best for decorative purposes, and crushed stone is ideal for projects that require a strong foundation.

How Are Gravel and Crushed Stone Classified?

Both gravel and crushed stone are sorted based on their size and how they are processed. Here is how they are classified:

1. By Size

Gravel and crushed stones are often categorized by particle size, which is determined by the screens used to sort them.

• #1: These are the largest stones that are usually between two to four inches in diameter.

• #57: These stones are around three-fourths of an inch and are very versatile. They are often used for driveways or drainage.

• #411: This is a mixture of large stones and fine particles, which makes it perfect for building a solid base.

• Stone Dust: This is made up of fine particles and works well as a leveling base.

2. Washed or Unwashed Gravel

Gravel can either be washed to remove dirt and silt or left unwashed with clay and sand. Washed gravel is cleaner and drains better, but unwashed gravel works well for compacted bases in construction.

3. By Type of Rock

Crushed stone can be made from different types of rock.

• Limestone: This is commonly used because it is durable and versatile.

• Granite: Granite is known for its strength and beauty, which makes it a great option for decorative uses.

• Basalt: This dense rock is ideal for heavy-duty projects.

Where to Use Crushed Gravel or Crushed Stone

Crushed gravel is perfect for bulk projects like driveways or parking areas where durability is important. Bulk crushed rock aggregate is affordable and works well as a stable base for these applications. For decorative purposes, natural gravel is an excellent choice because of its smooth surface and vibrant colors.

Understanding Costs

The crushed rock aggregate cost and crushed stone depends on their size and type. Gravel is usually more affordable for aesthetic uses, while crushed stone costs more because of its strength and durability.

Where to Find Quality Materials

You can find quality materials such as crushed stone aggregate for sale from local suppliers. These professionals can help you choose the best option for your project, whether it is for construction or decoration.

Final Thoughts

Gravel and crushed stone each serve unique purposes based on their characteristics. Gravel is a great choice for aesthetic projects because it is smooth and visually appealing, while crushed stone is reliable for structural and functional needs. To learn more or to purchase these materials, you can visit Western Materials and explore their options.