Material selection guide

How to choose stone for your project

Start with how the surface will be used, how much water moves through it, and whether the finished area needs to feel firm, smooth, or open-draining.

Match the stone to the job

Stone size affects drainage space, comfort, appearance, compaction, and stability. A larger stone is not automatically better, and a finer stone is not automatically stronger.

#4 Stone

Best fit: Heavy drainage and erosion-control areas

Handles larger volumes of moving water; too large for a comfortable walking surface.

#57 Stone

Best fit: Drainage, driveways, and general aggregate work

A versatile clean stone; confirm structural or specification requirements.

#67 Stone

Best fit: Projects similar to #57 that need a tighter surface

Slightly smaller than #57, leaving fewer open spaces between stones.

#78 Stone

Best fit: Walkways, lighter-use driveways, and finished surfaces

Creates a finer appearance but may shift under heavy loads or strong water flow.

#89 Stone

Best fit: Walking paths and other light-use areas

A small, more comfortable surface stone; not for heavy loads or strong water flow.

Rip Rap

Best fit: Ditches, slopes, channels, and concentrated water flow

Large erosion-control stone; not intended for driveways or walking surfaces.

Screenings/M10

Best fit: Compactable paths, paver leveling, and small voids

A fine crushed-stone material that can form a firm surface when compacted.

Three questions to ask

  1. Will people walk on it? Smaller #89 or #78 stone is generally more comfortable than large drainage stone.
  2. Will strong water move through it? #4 Stone or Rip Rap may be more suitable for heavy or concentrated flow.
  3. Does it need to compact? Screenings/M10 or an approved base material may fit better than clean, open-graded stone.
Project conditions vary. Confirm structural, drainage, erosion-control, and specification requirements before ordering.