Which Gravel is Best for Drainage?

When planning drainage solutions for your yard or garden, selecting the right type of gravel is a key decision. Proper gravel will prevent water from pooling, avoid erosion, and help keep your landscape healthy. Pea gravel stands out as the top choice for drainage applications among the many gravel options. Let’s explore why pea gravel from Hawkins Landscape Supply is the best option and what homeowners should look for when choosing gravel for drainage.

What to Look for When Choosing Gravel for Drainage

When selecting gravel for a drainage project, it’s important to focus on its ability to allow water to pass through and whether it will provide long-term stability. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Size and Shape of Gravel: The size and shape of gravel play a major role in how well it will perform. Smaller, rounded gravels like pea gravel are the best for drainage because they don’t compact as tightly as crushed stone or larger aggregates, which can obstruct water flow.
2. Permeability: Look for gravel that allows water to drain easily. Finer materials, such as sand or gravel with a lot of dust or small particles, tend to block water from filtering through efficiently. Choose washed gravel options with minimal dust or fines.
3. Durability: Ensure that the gravel you choose is durable and won’t break down over time. Some gravels, especially softer varieties, can degrade under the pressure of water or weather conditions. Pea gravel is known for its long-lasting performance in drainage systems.
4. Application: Consider where the gravel will be placed. For example, if you’re using it in a French drain or around your home’s foundation, pea gravel or similar rounded gravel is best. If the gravel will be in a decorative area or under heavy foot traffic, you might want to explore options that combine drainage efficiency with stability, like Washed #57 gravel.

Why Pea Gravel is Best for Drainage

Pea gravel is made up of small, round stones ranging from 3/8” to 3/4” in size, making it perfect for drainage purposes. Its naturally smooth texture allows water to flow through without resistance, preventing puddling. Here are some reasons why pea gravel excels:

1. Great Permeability: The rounded edges of pea gravel create small gaps between the stones, ensuring that water can flow freely. This feature makes pea gravel ideal for areas where water retention is a concern, such as around foundation drains, garden beds, or patios.
2. Stability with Flexibility: While pea gravel settles into place, it doesn’t compact so tightly that water cannot pass through. It stays in place for long-term drainage projects, avoiding issues like erosion or surface movement.
3. Aesthetic Value: Pea gravel is not just functional but also visually appealing. Its smooth surface and neutral colors make it an attractive option for landscaping, offering both practical drainage solutions and an inviting look for outdoor areas.

Comparing Gravel Types for Drainage

Here’s a comparison of pea gravel to other popular options from Hawkins Landscape Supply to help you make the best choice for your drainage needs.

RC-6 (21-A)

RC-6 consists of a blend of crushed stone and fine particles. While RC-6 is excellent for creating a stable base under driveways or patios, its ability to compact tightly makes it a poor choice for drainage. Because it doesn’t allow water to pass through easily, it could cause pooling in drainage applications.

Crush and Run (CR-6)

Crush and Run is another mix of large stones and fine materials. It’s a solid option for driveway and path bases because it forms a stable surface, but like RC-6, its compaction makes it less effective for drainage.

Washed #57 Gravel

Washed #57 gravel, made up of larger stones (about ¾” to 1”), is another gravel type that performs well in drainage applications. Unlike the crushed and compacting varieties, Washed #57 gravel is free of fine particles, allowing for good water flow. However, its larger size can lead to shifting over time, which may not be ideal for all projects. Pea gravel, with its smaller, more uniform size, offers better stability for long-term drainage.

Conclusion

When planning a drainage project, pea gravel is the best option to ensure effective water management. Its small, round stones offer superior permeability, settle well without compacting too tightly, and provide aesthetic appeal for your landscape. Whether you’re installing a French drain, working on a garden bed, or addressing water issues around your home, pea gravel from Hawkins Landscape Supply is the perfect solution for your drainage needs.

Visit our pea gravel page at Hawkins Landscape Supply to learn more and find the right gravel for your next project.