Construction Gravel vs Pea Gravel
Side-by-side comparison of Construction Gravel and Pea Gravel to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Construction gravel is a broad category of mixed-size stone used for general building and site work. It typically includes a combination of crushed stone sizes suitable for base preparation and structural fill.
Small, rounded stones about 3/8 inch in diameter. Smooth texture and available in natural earth tones. Pea gravel is one of the most popular decorative gravels for residential projects thanks to its comfortable feel underfoot and attractive appearance.
Common Uses
Construction Gravel
- ✓ Construction sites
- ✓ Base layers
- ✓ Backfill
- ✓ Temporary roads
Pea Gravel
- ✓ Patios
- ✓ Walkways
- ✓ Playgrounds
- ✓ Drainage
- ✓ Landscaping beds
- ✓ Garden paths
Pros & Cons
Construction Gravel
- + Versatile material
- + Readily available
- + Cost-effective
- + Suitable for many applications
- − Inconsistent sizing
- − Not decorative
- − Varies by supplier
Pea Gravel
- + Affordable and widely available
- + Smooth and comfortable underfoot
- + Excellent drainage
- + Attractive natural colors
- + Easy to spread and install
- − Shifts and migrates easily
- − Not ideal for driveways (poor compaction)
- − Requires edging to stay contained
- − Can be tracked indoors
- − Difficult to shovel snow from
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Construction Gravel | Pea Gravel |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $15 – $35 | $25 – $50 |
| Per cubic yard | $20 – $50 | $30 – $60 |
Sizes & Colors
Construction Gravel
Mixed crushed stone sizes ranging from fines to 1" or larger. Color varies by quarry source.
Pea Gravel
Pea gravel ranges from 1/4 to 3/8 inch in diameter. It comes in natural earth tones including tan, brown, white, gray, and rust. Some suppliers offer mixed-color blends. The stones are naturally rounded and smooth from water erosion.
Published February 11, 2026
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