Lava Rock: Uses, Cost, and Buying Guide
Also known as: Volcanic Rock, Scoria
What Is Lava Rock?
Lava rock is a lightweight, porous volcanic stone commonly used in landscaping. Its rough texture helps retain moisture while allowing airflow to plant roots.
Great For Landscaping with Gravel
How Much Lava Rock Do I Need?
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Is Lava Rock Right for You?
Best for
- ✓ Water retention
- ✓ Low-maintenance landscapes
Not recommended for
- ✗ Walkways
- ✗ Driveways
- ✗ High-traffic areas
Common Uses
- ✓ Landscaping
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Decorative ground cover
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| + Very lightweight | − Breaks down over time |
| + Excellent moisture retention | − Sharp edges |
| + Decorative appearance | − Can scatter easily |
Lava Rock Sizes & Colors
Typically 3/4"–1.5" sizes. Red or black.
Lava Rock Cost
| Measure | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Per ton | $90 – $150 |
| Per cubic yard | $110 – $180 |
Lightweight but bulky — fewer tons per truckload.
Prices vary by region, availability, and order size. Urban areas typically pay more than rural areas.
Lava Rock vs Alternatives
Lava Rock vs Pea Gravel
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Crushed Stone vs Lava Rock
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Crushed Limestone vs Lava Rock
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Lava Rock vs River Rock
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Decomposed Granite vs Lava Rock
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#57 Gravel vs Lava Rock
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#8 Gravel vs Lava Rock
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Crusher Run vs Lava Rock
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#89 Stone vs Lava Rock
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Fill Dirt vs Lava Rock
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Lava Rock vs Topsoil
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Brown Shredded Mulch vs Lava Rock
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Black Shredded Mulch vs Lava Rock
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Lava Rock vs Rip Rap
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Compost vs Lava Rock
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Lava Rock vs Washed Gravel
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Bank Run Gravel vs Lava Rock
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Lava Rock vs Marble Chips
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Lava Rock vs Stone Dust
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#411 Gravel vs Lava Rock
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Construction Gravel vs Lava Rock
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Lava Rock vs Recycled Asphalt
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Bluestone vs Lava Rock
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Jersey Shore Gravel vs Lava Rock
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Lava Rock vs Mexican Beach Pebble
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Lava Rock by City
Lava Rock Crushed limestone is commonly used and readily available in the following cities:
Find Lava Rock Near You
9821 E OH-37, Sunbury, Ohio
3255 S Old Glenn Hwy, Palmer, Alaska
1040 O'Malley Rd, Anchorage, Alaska
4701 Altamesa Blvd, Fort Worth, Texas