Decomposed Granite: Uses, Cost, and Buying Guide
Also known as: DG, Decomposed Granite Fines
What Is Decomposed Granite?
Granite that has weathered to the point of breaking into small pieces and fine particles. Creates a natural, rustic look that blends beautifully with desert and Mediterranean landscapes. When compacted, it forms a firm yet permeable surface.
Great For Gravel Patios
How Much Decomposed Granite Do I Need?
Draw your project area on the map to get an instant material estimate for Decomposed Granite.
Plan Your Gravel Project
Enter your address to see a satellite view. Then draw your project area to get a material estimate.
Loading Gravel Planner...
Enter your address to get started
We'll show a satellite view of your property so you can draw your gravel project area.
Is Decomposed Granite Right for You?
Best for
- ✓ Patios
- ✓ Pathways
- ✓ Xeriscaping
- ✓ Bocce courts
Not recommended for
- ✗ Heavy-traffic driveways
- ✗ Rainy climates
- ✗ Slopes
Common Uses
- ✓ Patios
- ✓ Pathways
- ✓ Driveways
- ✓ Xeriscaping
- ✓ Ground cover
- ✓ Bocce courts
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| + Compacts into a firm walking surface | − Can get muddy in heavy rain |
| + Natural, rustic appearance | − Tracked indoors on shoes |
| + Permeable — allows water infiltration | − Decomposes further over time and needs replenishing |
| + Low cost | − Limited color options |
| + Ideal for drought-tolerant landscaping | − Not suitable for high-traffic vehicle areas |
Decomposed Granite Sizes & Colors
Decomposed granite is a mix of fine particles and small chunks, typically 1/4" and smaller. Colors include gold, tan, brown, gray, and reddish-brown depending on the granite source. Stabilized DG (with resin binder) creates an even firmer surface.
Decomposed Granite Cost
| Measure | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Per ton | $25 – $45 |
| Per cubic yard | $30 – $50 |
Sold by the cubic yard at most landscape supply yards. Bagged DG is available at home centers for small projects.
Prices vary by region, availability, and order size. Urban areas typically pay more than rural areas.
Decomposed Granite vs Alternatives
Decomposed Granite vs Pea Gravel
Compare Decomposed Granite and Pea Gravel side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Crushed Stone vs Decomposed Granite
Compare Crushed Stone and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your proj...
Crushed Limestone vs Decomposed Granite
Compare Crushed Limestone and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your ...
Decomposed Granite vs River Rock
Compare Decomposed Granite and River Rock side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
#57 Gravel vs Decomposed Granite
Compare #57 Gravel and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
#8 Gravel vs Decomposed Granite
Compare #8 Gravel and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Crusher Run vs Decomposed Granite
Compare Crusher Run and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
#89 Stone vs Decomposed Granite
Compare #89 Stone and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Decomposed Granite vs Fill Dirt
Compare Decomposed Granite and Fill Dirt side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Decomposed Granite vs Topsoil
Compare Decomposed Granite and Topsoil side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Brown Shredded Mulch vs Decomposed Granite
Compare Brown Shredded Mulch and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for yo...
Black Shredded Mulch vs Decomposed Granite
Compare Black Shredded Mulch and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for yo...
Decomposed Granite vs Rip Rap
Compare Decomposed Granite and Rip Rap side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Compost vs Decomposed Granite
Compare Compost and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Decomposed Granite vs Washed Gravel
Compare Decomposed Granite and Washed Gravel side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your proj...
Bank Run Gravel vs Decomposed Granite
Compare Bank Run Gravel and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your pr...
Decomposed Granite vs Marble Chips
Compare Decomposed Granite and Marble Chips side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Decomposed Granite vs Lava Rock
Compare Decomposed Granite and Lava Rock side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Decomposed Granite vs Stone Dust
Compare Decomposed Granite and Stone Dust side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
#411 Gravel vs Decomposed Granite
Compare #411 Gravel and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Construction Gravel vs Decomposed Granite
Compare Construction Gravel and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for you...
Decomposed Granite vs Recycled Asphalt
Compare Decomposed Granite and Recycled Asphalt side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your p...
Bluestone vs Decomposed Granite
Compare Bluestone and Decomposed Granite side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for your project.
Decomposed Granite vs Jersey Shore Gravel
Compare Decomposed Granite and Jersey Shore Gravel side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for you...
Decomposed Granite vs Mexican Beach Pebble
Compare Decomposed Granite and Mexican Beach Pebble side by side — uses, pros & cons, costs, and which is best for yo...
Project Ideas
Gravel Patios
Gravel patios provide an affordable, attractive outdoor living space that drains well and requires minimal constructi...
Gravel Walkways
Gravel walkways are a practical and charming addition to any landscape. They guide visitors through gardens, connect ...
Landscaping with Gravel
Gravel is one of the most versatile landscaping materials available, offering solutions for ground cover, mulch repla...
Decomposed Granite by City
Decomposed Granite Crushed limestone is commonly used and readily available in the following cities:
Find Decomposed Granite Near You
100 Galleria Parkway Southeast, Atlanta, Georgia
491 Cranbury Rd, East Brunswick, New Jersey
7401 E Redfield Rd, Scottsdale, Arizona
2425 N Glassford Hill Rd, Prescott Valley, Arizona
310 W Sam White Ln, Pleasant Grove, Utah
1341 State Route 34, Matawan, New Jersey
3515 E Gila Ridge Rd, Yuma, Arizona