What Gravel is Best for Paver Base?

Creating a solid and long-lasting paver base is crucial for any successful outdoor project, whether it’s a patio, walkway, or driveway. When choosing the right gravel for a paver base, one product works best: stone dust. This fine, powdery material offers many advantages that make it ideal for paver bases. Here’s why stone dust is the best choice and how it can support your outdoor project.

What is Stone Dust?

Stone dust, also known as rock dust or crusher dust, is a byproduct of the crushing process of larger stones. This process breaks down the stones into fine particles that are highly compactable and provide excellent support for pavers. Stone dust is particularly effective as a paver base because it fills the spaces between the pavers, creating a stable and smooth surface.

Why Stone Dust is the Best Choice for a Paver Base

1. Superior Compaction
   Stone dust compacts exceptionally well, creating a dense and level base that helps prevent pavers from shifting over time. Once compacted, stone dust locks into place and provides stability that other gravels often lack. This ensures that your paver project remains durable and attractive for years.
2. Enhanced Drainage
   Proper drainage is crucial for any paver project to prevent pooling and structural issues. Stone dust helps direct water away from the surface, reducing erosion risk beneath the pavers. This drainage capability makes stone dust an ideal option for outdoor spaces with frequent rain or other water exposure.
3. Easy to Work With
   Stone dust is relatively easy to handle and spread, which makes it a great option for both DIY enthusiasts and professional landscapers. Its fine texture allows it to be spread evenly and compacted easily, simplifying the base preparation process.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
   Stone dust is generally affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for large-scale projects. At Hawkins Landscape Supply, we offer stone dust without any delivery fees, providing even more value to homeowners.
5. Eco-Friendly Option
   Since stone dust is a byproduct of stone crushing, it uses materials that might otherwise go to waste. By choosing stone dust, you’re getting a high-quality paver base material and contributing to sustainable landscaping practices.

Why Other Types of Gravel Are Less Suitable for Paver Bases

While stone dust is the ideal choice, it’s worth understanding why other types of gravel are not as effective for paver bases. Here’s a look at some common gravel types and why they may fall short for this purpose:

Pea Gravel

Pea gravel consists of small, smooth, rounded stones that are known for their aesthetic appeal. However, the smooth surfaces of these stones make them difficult to compact effectively. Without proper compaction, pea gravel lacks the stability required to support pavers, leading to shifting and an uneven surface over time.

Crushed Stone

Crushed stone, especially the larger varieties, can provide some stability but lacks the fine particles needed to create a dense, level base. The larger gaps between crushed stone pieces may allow the pavers to shift, compromising the overall durability of the project. Additionally, crushed stone can sometimes be difficult to level precisely, making it less ideal for paver bases.

River Rock

River rock is often used for decorative purposes because of its smooth and rounded appearance. However, like pea gravel, river rock does not compact well, which is essential for creating a stable base. The loose nature of river rock can lead to shifting, making it unsuitable for supporting the weight and movement associated with paver surfaces.

Gravel Mixes with Sand

While gravel mixed with sand is sometimes used in paver installations, it doesn’t perform as well as stone dust. Sand can wash away over time, especially if not properly compacted. This erosion can lead to uneven surfaces and require frequent maintenance. Stone dust, by contrast, provides superior compaction and less washout risk.

Limestone Gravel

Limestone gravel, particularly in larger sizes, is another common base material but falls short due to its less stable structure. When compacted, limestone gravel can still have voids that allow for shifting and settling over time, which is not ideal for the stability required in a paver base.

How to Use Stone Dust for Your Paver Base

• Step 1: Measure and outline the area for your project. Make sure the ground is level and free of debris.
• Step 2: Spread a layer of stone dust across the area, aiming for a depth of about two to three inches.
• Step 3: Use a tamper or plate compactor to compact the stone dust thoroughly. This step is key to creating a stable and durable base.
• Step 4: Lay your pavers on top of the compacted stone dust, ensuring they’re even and securely in place.

For more information about stone dust and to see our full selection, visit the rest of the Hawkins Landscape Supply website. We’re here to help you create a beautiful and durable outdoor space, and with our free delivery service, getting the right materials for your project has never been easier!

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