Landscaping With Crushed Rock & Gravel
Published on: April 05, 2023Are You Tired of Watering the Grass?
Conservation is on everyone’s mind these days and for good reason. Today’s energy and water bills can make or break a budget. You want to upgrade your outdoor areas, but you’re worried about trading your BBQ pit for a money pit. We get it! But don’t worry, we have you (and your ground) covered. If you’re ready to learn the benefits of introducing crushed stone and gravel into your landscape design, we’ll show you how a beautiful, water-wise landscape is easier than ever to create.
The Differences Between Crushed Rock & Other Landscape Rock
Crushed rock and gravel differ in both appearance and use when compared to other types of landscape rock. Here’s a short list of some of these differences:
Popular Crushed Stone & Gravel Landscaping Projects
If you are looking to have an outdoor area that’s not only attractive but practical, then there are a number of simple DIY projects to instantly increase curb appeal and the value of your home!
Choosing Sizes and Colors for Crushed Rock & Gravel Landscaping
Southwest Boulder & Stone has a huge selection of crushed rock and gravel sizes and colors to choose from, but don’t worry, that’s a good thing! Here are a few helpful tips for choosing the perfect landscape rock for your yard.
How to Install Crushed Rock & Gravel for Your Landscaping Project
Landscaping with crushed rock and gravel might seem overwhelming at first, but we’ll show you some easy recommendations to help you transform your yard in no time!
Design & Layout
After deciding on where you’d like to install your gravel, paint out the lines of your installation area with brightly colored construction paint.
Perimeter Edging
Set the perimeter of your installation area with steel, wood, or bender board, and fasten it with stakes.
Excavate & Compact
Using a spade shovel, remove the top 4” of soil below the top of your edging material and compact the area with a hand tamper or vibratory plate.
Coverage Calculator
Use our helpful Coverage Calculator to determine how much material you’ll need for the project.
Add a Rock Subbase (For Pathway Installation)
Line the area with 2” of construction-grade crushed rock and compact it with a hand tamper.
Lay Down Landscape Fabric
Roll out a layer of weed barrier over the compacted base or soil and fasten with landscape fabric staples.
Fill The Area with Crushed Rock or Gravel
Pour out enough material to fill the remaining 2” of space below your edging material and rake out evenly.
Tools Needed
- Construction paint
- Steel, wood, or bender board edging material
- Square shovel
- Metal rake
- Hand tamper
- Weed barrier fabric and staples
- Utility knife
- Wheelbarrow