Crushed Stone vs Washed Gravel

Crushed Stone

Angular, mechanically crushed rock available in various sizes. Excellent for compaction and stability. Crushed stone is the workhorse of the aggregate industry, used in everything from road construction to residential driveways.

Washed Gravel

Washed gravel consists of crushed or rounded stone that has been mechanically washed to remove all fines and dust. Without fines, the stones do not compact, allowing water to flow freely between them. Washed gravel is commonly used where drainage is the primary concern.

Crushed Stone

• ✓ Driveways
• ✓ Road base
• ✓ Foundations
• ✓ Retaining wall backfill
• ✓ French drains
• ✓ Concrete aggregate

Washed Gravel

• ✓ Drainage systems
• ✓ French drains
• ✓ Foundation backfill
• ✓ Septic systems
• ✓ Pipe bedding

Crushed Stone

• + Compacts firmly for stable surfaces
• + Excellent load-bearing capacity
• + Interlocking shape prevents shifting
• + Widely available and affordable
• + Multiple size options

• − Angular edges are uncomfortable underfoot
• − Dusty when dry
• − Not as decorative as rounded gravel
• − Can be sharp on bare feet
• − May need periodic top-dressing

Washed Gravel

• + Excellent drainage
• + No dust or mud
• + Does not retain water
• + Clean, uniform appearance

• − Does not compact
• − Can shift under load
• − Requires edging or containment

Crushed Stone

Crushed stone is available in sizes from stone dust (fine) up to 4 inches. Common grades include #8 (3/8"), #57 (3/4"–1"), #3 (1"–2"), and #1 (2"–4"). Colors depend on the source rock — typically gray, blue-gray, or tan.

Washed Gravel

Typically available in 3/4" (#57), 1"–2", or mixed clean stone sizes. Color varies by source material but is usually gray, tan, or off-white.