How Much Does Pea Gravel Cost? | Pricing Guide

Pea gravel is a type of aggregate made from small, rounded pebbles. It is commonly used for driveways, walkways, and playgrounds.

The cost of a pea gravel project can vary depending on the size and scope. For example, if you have a large area to cover with pea gravel, it will cost more than if you just need to fill in an area around your home’s foundation.

However, pea gravel is an excellent option for those looking for inexpensive landscaping material. A one-ton load of plain pea gravel costs about $40, which is much cheaper than the price of concrete or asphalt. In addition, pea gravel requires little additional maintenance and will not crack in extreme temperatures.

How Much Does Pea Gravel Cost?

The price of gravel is not a fixed number. It will depend on your project size and the amount you need. For example, if you are looking for a small amount for your garden, it might cost $10 per foot. However, if you are looking to cover a large area with this material, it might cost $25 per ton or more.

The cost of gravel for a pea gravel project can be anywhere from $30 to $250 per cubic yard. For example, a standard landscaping project with 1,000 square feet of pea gravel will cost around $30 to $70 per cubic yard. This would be the gravel price for a standard-sized lot with a small slope that does not need any grading or shaping before installation.

How Much Do Common Gravel Projects Cost?

The cost of gravel projects also varies depending on the size and scope, but most estimates place them at roughly $1 per square foot.

A gravel walkway or driveway can cost anywhere from $300 to $1500. The project’s cost will depend on the size of the area and the amount of gravel needed. A playground can also cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. Again, the price will depend on the size and materials used in the playground.

A landscaping bed can range from $300 to $600. A patio is typically more expensive than a bed because it requires more material, such as concrete or pavers. The average price for a pea gravel patio is $1,000 to $2,000.

What Are Some Additional Pea Gravel Costs?

The price of gravel per pound can vary depending on the type and size of pea gravel you purchase. For example, small stones may be cheaper than large stones because they are more abundant in nature and easier to find. 

However, the most expensive pea gravel type is black pea gravel, which can cost up to $1.50 per pound.

Can I Save Money Purchasing Bulk Pea Gravel?

It can be cheaper to purchase in bulk, but it also depends on how much you are buying.

Buying pea gravel in bulk from gravel suppliers saves you money compared to buying it by yard or cubic foot. The best way to figure out how much you’re saving is by calculating your final cost per square foot. 

For example, if you purchase a ten cubic yard bag of pea gravel and have it delivered, your final price per square foot might be $0.76 per square foot. If you purchase 50 pounds of pea gravel and have it delivered, your final cost per square foot would be $0.55.

The cost of gravel for a cubic yard of pea gravel can vary depending on the location and the company, but it is usually around $35.

How Much Does Pea Gravel Delivery Cost?

Pea gravel delivery cost can vary depending on how much pea gravel you need, the distance it needs to be transported, and the vehicle used to transport it. The cost of gravel can range from $30 to $120 per ton.

There are two common types of delivery.

Local Delivery: This type of delivery typically has the lowest cost. The cost can vary depending on the location. The cost of pea gravel per yard usually ranges from $1 to $2.

Delivery Discounts: Some companies offer discounts when you order in bulk. For example, if you order more than 10 yards or cubic yards, you might get a discount of 50%.

What Colors Are Available for Pea Gravel?

The colors available for pea gravel are black, brown, green, red, pink, white, and more. 

Brown is the most commonly used color. It is a natural color that is not too dark and not too light. It also has a neutral tone that goes well with many other colors in the garden.

Green pea gravel is another popular option. The green color can be seen as a symbol of growth and renewal in many cultures. 

Red pea gravel can be used to add contrast to an otherwise monochrome palette of colors on your garden bed or container garden.

Some people prefer black pea gravel because it will not show dirt or dust as easily as lighter colors like brown or green would do over time. On the other hand, darker colors like black may draw more heat and make it harder on your plants.

White pea gravel is excellent if you want a more natural look. It will also help to reflect light from the sun so that plants can grow better in your garden.

Pink pea gravel is perfect for those who want their yard or garden to look more feminine or romantic.

Are There Different Textures of Pea Gravel?

Pea gravel is a type of crushed stone that is used for many purposes. The size of the pea gravel is usually between 3/4 inch to 1 inch. It can be used as a decorative ground cover or a base for new gardens and landscaping. The finer the texture, the smoother it will feel underfoot.

The most common type of pea gravel is the one with larger pieces of gravel. However, this type has a rougher texture, which may not suit all kinds of surfaces. For example, this texture might not work well on a paved surface or in areas with high pedestrian traffic.

Do I Need a Border for Pea Gravel?

Pea gravel borders give your garden an attractive and unique look, but they also provide some practical benefits. They’re easy to maintain, can be moved or replaced quickly, and can be used as a weed barrier.

Additionally, the answer depends on the type of materials you are using. If you use mulch as a base, you may not need a border since the mulch will act as one. 

However, if you are using wood chips, you may want a frame to help contain them and keep them from blowing away when it rains or snows.

A border for pea gravel will help keep the gravel site in place and give your landscape a more finished appearance.

What Is the Installation Cost?

In addition to the pea gravel cost per yard, you must consider installation. Pea gravel installation costs are dependent on several factors such as the size and type of project, labor costs, and material prices. For example, a small project may cost $0.30 per square foot, while a large project may cost $1 per square foot or more.

What Equipment Do I Need to Install Pea Gravel?

There are a few tools that you will need to install pea gravel. The following is a list of the necessary equipment.

• Shovels
• Wheelbarrow
• Rake
• Sifter
• Hose (optional)
• Watering can (optional)

A shovel is necessary for digging the hole for the gravel. Next, a rake is needed to level out the gravel once it has been laid in the spot. 

Wheelbarrows are essential for carrying gravel from one place to another. Finally, a sifter is needed to remove any large rocks or debris from the gravel before laying it down.

What Are Some Other Materials Needed?

Pea gravel is often used in the installation process to fill in any gaps between the pavers. It is also used to provide a more comfortable surface for people to walk on.

Some other materials that may be needed are sand, a metal edging strip, and sealant.

How to Install Pea Gravel

The process of installing pea gravel is simple, but there are some things you should know before starting the project.

First, you need to decide on the type of pea gravel that you want to use for your project. You can choose from many different types of pea gravel, but it must be uniform in size to not create an uneven appearance.

Next, start by clearing out any existing grass or weeds from where you plan to install your pea gravel. You will need to remove all of this vegetation because it could grow into the newly laid down gravel.

While it’s easy to install pea gravel on your own, you should always hire a professional to do the job if you have never done it before because they will make sure that all the gravel is installed in an even layer to look nice and tidy.

1. Determine the Area

The first step is to determine the area you need to cover. Use a measuring tape and measure the length and width of the site. This may involve removing sod, shrubs, and other vegetation from the desired area. If you have a large area to cover, it may be helpful to bring in an excavator or hire a landscaper to do the job for you.

Next, outline the space with stakes or string. You can use stakes for smaller areas, but twine or rope will be more effective for larger areas.

Make sure that the outline is square or rectangular.

2. Create a Dig Site

To install pea gravel, you must first create a dig site. This will be the area where you will place your pea gravel. The area should be shaded and not have any obstacles like power lines or trees.

You can use any kind of shovel to dig out the area, but make sure that it is deep enough to place the pea gravel inside without falling through.

3. Level the Area

The next thing you need to do when installing pea gravel is to make sure that the surface on which it will be laid is level and smooth. This can be done with a tamping machine or by hand with a tamper. Once your surface is level, you are ready for the next step.

4. Create a Border

There are many different ways to install a border with pea gravel, but one of the simplest methods is to lay down the stones on top of the ground and then cover them with soil or sand. The rocks should be spaced evenly apart, and they should be pushed into the ground so that they will not move when walked on.

However, you can also install a border by laying down landscape fabric or some other decorative materials to make it look attractive.

5. Lay a Foundation

Lay a foundation into the hole you dug by adding gravel or stones.

You should always make sure that your base is level so that the gravel will sit evenly on it. If you have a slope, then dig out more dirt at the bottom of the slope to be level with the rest of your yard.

6. Cover the Foundation

Next, lay down a layer of pea gravel over the landscape fabric and compact it with your feet or a tamper. If there are any voids in the material, fill them with more layers of landscape fabric and pea gravel until you get an even surface.

Laying pea gravel will help prevent weed growth, which is especially important if you have a lawn or plan to plant flowers soon.

7. Install Pea Gravel to Your Desired Depth

To install pea gravel, first, you need to decide on your desired depth. For example, if you use it as a pathway, there should be about 6 inches of gravel (or more) for walkways and 3 inches for flower beds.

Pour your desired amount of pea gravel and spread it out evenly across the area using a rake or shovel. You want to make sure that all the ground is evenly covered. After tamping it down, ensure that your border stands taller than the level gravel.

Should I Hire a Professional?

DIY pea gravel installation is a cost-effective way to spruce up your garden. However, pea gravel is not as easy to install as it may seem, and it can be difficult for the inexperienced DIYer to get the desired results.

Here are three reasons you should hire a professional landscaper to install your pea gravel.

• Pea gravel can be hard on your body if you’re not used to working outside. Hiring a professional will save you from getting sore muscles and possible injuries by installing pea gravel yourself.
• A professional will have the right tools for the job, meaning they’ll get done faster than you would on your own.
• A professional installer has experience installing pea gravel, so they know how much material they need and where best to put it to

The cost of pea gravel installation can vary depending on the size of the area, but it typically costs less than $5 per square foot. The average DIY price of gravel installation is $1.50 per square foot, while professional installation typically costs $2 and $3.

Does Pea Gravel Cost Vary by Geographic Location?

The price of pea gravel can vary depending on where you purchase it. For example, the cost of pea gravel per ton is much cheaper in Texas than in New York City. In addition, if you are buying from a company that does not have permits for selling pea gravel, you may be paying more for your purchase.

Permits are typically not required to purchase pea gravel, but you may need to get a permit if you plan to use it for construction purposes.

Why Use Pea Gravel?

Pea gravel is an excellent option for many different kinds of projects. It is often used as a decorative element in gardens and landscaping, but it also has other uses.

The advantages of pea gravel include:

• It is inexpensive and easy to find;
• It provides a comfortable walking surface;
• It drains water well;
• There are many color options available;
• It’s easy to install.

Pea gravel is also an environmentally friendly option because it doesn’t require pesticides or fertilizers to maintain its color and texture. The only time you might need to add more pea gravel is if you’re planning on planting new plants in your garden and you want the space between them to be filled in.

Erosion and Drainage Advantages

Pea gravel is an excellent choice for people looking to protect their soil from erosion. Pea gravel is made of stone, absorbs water, and prevents the dirt around it from becoming too wet.

This means that it can be used to prevent erosion on slopes and hillsides where water collects after heavy rain or snow. Pea gravel also prevents the formation of mudslides and landslides when water freezes in winter, making it a good choice for areas with heavy precipitation.

Pea gravel is a great option for people who want to improve drainage on their property. It does not clog up with water like other kinds of gravel, and it also prevents water from accumulating, which can cause flooding in some cases.

Pest Prevention

Pea gravel can be used as an alternative to chemical-based rodent deterrents. It is a natural barrier for rodents and pest prevention material. It is made of crushed, dried, and screened gravel.

The gravel is mixed with unique pea-sized gravel with a high percentage of calcium carbonate. Pea Gravel can be used in and around buildings to prevent rodents from entering the structure.

What Are Popular Uses for Pea Gravel?

Pea gravel is not just used for decoration. It can be used for many other purposes. It’s commonly used in the garden to keep plants moist and provide stability for plants needing support. It can also be used as a decorative stone. Pea gravel can even be put on top of manure piles to help control the smell and keep flies away from the manure pile.

However, below we’ll explore the most common uses for pea gravel.

Pea Gravel Driveways

Pea gravel driveways are affordable and easy to install. They are also less expensive than other driveway materials, such as concrete or asphalt. In addition, pea gravel driveways require less maintenance than these other options because the material is not porous like concrete or asphalt, so it is not susceptible to cracks or holes that need to be filled in with tarps or sealant.

The cost of pea gravel driveways varies depending on the size of the driveway and what type of pea gravel you use. You can find them starting at around $1 per square foot and going up from there.

Pea Gravel Walkways

Pea gravel walkways provide several benefits for homeowners. The cost of gravel is more affordable than other walkways, and they are easier to install. They also have a natural look, which is appealing to many people. The best benefit is that they are less slippery when wet, making them safer for children and pets.

The cost of pea gravel walkways is an average of $1.50 per square foot. That is significantly lower than the cost of concrete pavers at an average of $3 per square foot.

Pea Gravel Playgrounds

Pea gravel playgrounds are a safe and healthy alternative to traditional playgrounds. They have many benefits, including:

• They are easy to maintain because they are made of natural materials, so there is no need for harsh chemicals.
• Pea gravel is soft enough for children to play on and not get hurt.
• They have natural drainage, which means that water doesn’t accumulate on the surface of the ground and causes mud puddles.
• The material is non-toxic, which means that it does not contain any dangerous substances that could affect children’s health if they come into contact with it.

The cost of a pea gravel playground can vary depending on the size, type, and location. However, the average cost for a pea gravel playground is $5-$7 per square foot.

Pea Gravel Swimming Pool Decks

Pea gravel swimming pool decks are an excellent choice for those looking to save money and have a functional and aesthetically appealing deck.

The benefits of pea gravel swimming pool decks are:

• Inexpensive, making it easier to afford a larger deck.
• Provide a comfortable surface for those who want to walk barefoot or in flip-flops.
• Easy to maintain, as they do not require the same type of maintenance as other materials.

The gravel color can be matched with any color scheme, which makes it adaptable to any environment.

Pea Gravel Garden Beds

The benefits of pea gravel garden beds are low-maintenance and do not require any fertilizers. They also have a more natural look, perfect for those who want to create a more naturalistic garden. The only downside to this garden bed is that it can be difficult to plant in the ground.

Pea gravel garden beds also provide a simple solution for those looking for a vegetable garden that is easy to maintain. The raised bed design also allows you to work in the bed without bending over, which is especially important if you have back problems.

FAQs

Does Pea Gravel Increase My Home’s Value?

Pea gravel is a popular choice for homeowners because it has many benefits such as low maintenance, low cost, and a natural look.

It also offers protection against erosion and weed growth, increases curb appeal, and is relatively straightforward to replace if needed.

Is Pea Gravel Difficult to Keep Clean?

Pea gravel has the advantage of not being as heavy as other types of aggregate, so it doesn’t sink into the ground when it rains.

First, you should rake the gravel at least once a week. This will help remove any debris that has fallen onto the ground. You should also use a leaf blower to eliminate any leaves or other debris that have fallen onto the pea gravel.

If you have plants in your garden, you should periodically cut back their roots growing into the ground. This will help prevent them from pulling dirt into your pea gravel area and making it difficult to maintain its cleanliness.

Next, pea gravel can be kept clean by sweeping, washing, or hosing off the surface with water. Some products on the market help keep pea gravel clean by repelling dirt and preventing algae growth.

How Much Does a Ton of Pea Gravel Cover?

A ton of pea gravel covers an area of 50-100 square feet, so it is often used for driveways or walkways. The depth of pea gravel varies depending on the application.

How Deep Should My Pea Gravel Be?

The depth of pea gravel can range from 2 to 6 inches. The depth will depend on the type of application you are using the pea gravel for and what kind of soil you are working with. For example, if you are working with heavy clay soil, the optimum depth would be 6 inches.

If the pea gravel is too shallow, then it will not provide any protection from weeds or other pests. A good rule of thumb is that the depth should be no less than one inch.

Is Pea Gravel High Maintenance?

Pea gravel is not hard to maintain, but it does require more effort than some other types of surfaces. It needs to be swept and raked periodically to remove any leaves or other debris that have fallen on the surface. In addition, if you have pets, the pea gravel will need to be hosed down with water regularly so that their urine does not stain the surface.

What Is the Difference Between Pea Gravel and Pea Pebbles?

Pea gravel is a type of crushed rock made from various kinds of stones and has a diameter of 1/4 inch. Pea pebbles are pebbles with a diameter ranging from 3/8 to 1/2 inches.

Pea gravel is used for driveways and walkways, as well as for retaining walls and roofs. It can also be used for landscaping, but it isn’t as common as other types of gravel. Pea pebbles are mainly used in landscaping but can also be used to make pathways or driveways.

How Do I Keep Pea Gravel in Place?

Gravel does not have any binding properties, so it will not stay put on its own. The first step to keeping pea gravel in place is to ensure that you have a good border and base. Sand or organic material such as compost works well. The second step is to coat the gravel base with a coating of polyurethane or similar material.

Can You Walk Barefoot on Pea Gravel?

Pea gravel is a small stone with a diameter of about 3/8 inches or 1 centimeter. It is often used as an alternative to sand in gardens and other landscaping projects because it does not contain sharp edges.

The pea gravel surface is smooth and flat, allowing for easy walking on it without the risk of stepping on something sharp or damaging your feet.

Conclusion

The use of pea gravel is not a new trend. It has been around for centuries, providing function and style to many landscapes.

Its benefits include:

• The installation process is quick and easy
• Pea gravel can be used in gardens, driveways, walkways, and more
• It’s affordable compared to other types of mulches

The average pea gravel cost ranges from $30 to $70 per cubic yard, depending on the size and type of pea gravel you are buying. The average price of installation is $3-5 per square foot.