Materials
Crushed Stone vs Gravel: What's the Difference?
People use the words interchangeably, but there's a real difference: crushed stone is mechanically crushed with sharp, angular edges, while gravel is naturally weathered and rounded. That one difference changes how each compacts, drains and performs.
Side-by-side comparison
| Crushed stone | Natural gravel | |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Angular, sharp edges | Rounded, smooth |
| Made by | Crushing quarried rock | Natural erosion / river action |
| Compaction | Locks together, stays firm | Shifts and rolls underfoot |
| Best for | Driveways, bases, drainage | Decorative beds, drainage stone |
| Look | Greyer, more uniform | Varied, natural colours |
| Price | Often a little cheaper | Decorative grades cost more |
Compaction and stability
Angular crushed stone is the winner for anything structural. The sharp faces interlock when compacted, forming a firm surface that resists rutting. Round gravel can't lock the same way — the stones roll past each other, which is why pure rounded gravel makes a poor driving surface but a comfortable decorative cover.
Drainage
Both drain well, but in different ways. Clean (washed) crushed stone with no fines is excellent for French drains and behind retaining walls. Crusher run (crushed stone with stone dust) compacts tight and sheds water off the surface — ideal for a base layer rather than drainage. Rounded gravel drains freely but won't compact.
Which should you use?
- Driveways & bases: crushed stone (crusher run base, clear stone top).
- French drains & behind walls: clean angular crushed stone.
- Decorative beds & borders: rounded gravel or river rock for looks and bare-foot comfort.
- Pathways: either — crushed for firmness, rounded for appearance.
Estimate crushed sizes (3/4 in, 20 mm, crusher run, clear stone) with the Crushed Gravel Calculator, and see the best gravel for driveways for specific Canadian grades.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between crushed stone and gravel?
Crushed stone is quarried rock mechanically broken into angular pieces with sharp edges, while natural gravel is rounded by weathering and water. The angular shape makes crushed stone compact and lock together better.
Is crushed stone or gravel better for a driveway?
Crushed stone is better for driveways. Its angular edges interlock and compact into a firm surface, whereas rounded gravel shifts and ruts under tires.
Which is better for drainage, crushed stone or gravel?
Clean, washed crushed stone is the top choice for French drains and behind walls. Rounded gravel also drains well but won't compact; crusher run compacts tight and is better as a base than a drainage stone.
Is crushed stone cheaper than gravel?
Often, yes — basic crusher run and crushed stone are usually among the cheapest aggregates, while decorative natural gravel and river rock cost more per tonne.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general estimates for planning. Actual gravel quantities, weights and prices vary with material type, particle size, moisture, compaction, supplier and your province. Costs are material-only ballparks in Canadian dollars and exclude labour, delivery and taxes unless stated. Always confirm quantities and prices with your local supplier.