Bank Run Gravel vs Crusher Run

Bank Run Gravel

Bank run gravel is a naturally occurring mix of sand, gravel, and small stones excavated directly from pits or riverbanks. Unlike crusher run, it is not mechanically crushed or screened, resulting in inconsistent sizing.

Crusher Run

Dense blend of crushed stone and stone dust ranging from 1.5" down to fine particles. The fines fill voids between larger stones, creating a surface that self-compacts into an exceptionally firm, stable base. Crusher run is the most popular single-material solution for driveways and parking areas.

Bank Run Gravel

• ✓ Rural driveways
• ✓ Base fill
• ✓ Backfill
• ✓ Construction fill

Crusher Run

• ✓ Driveways
• ✓ Parking areas
• ✓ Road base
• ✓ Foundation sub-base
• ✓ Backfill
• ✓ Equipment pads

Bank Run Gravel

• + Low cost
• + Minimal processing
• + Good general fill material

• − Inconsistent size
• − Poor compaction compared to crusher run
• − Can contain excess sand

Crusher Run

• + Self-compacts into an extremely stable surface
• + Single-layer application (no need for multiple grades)
• + Excellent load-bearing capacity
• + Affordable and widely available
• + Fines lock stones together to resist shifting

• − Not decorative — utilitarian gray appearance
• − Can become muddy if drainage is poor
• − Dusty in dry conditions
• − Tracks onto paved surfaces
• − Requires compaction equipment for best results

Bank Run Gravel

Unscreened blend ranging from sand up to 2" stones. Color varies by region.

Crusher Run

Mix of angular crushed stone from 1.5" down to fine stone dust. The blend of sizes is what makes it self-compacting. Color is typically gray or blue-gray depending on source rock. Sometimes called "crusher run" because it's the raw output of a stone crusher.