Guides
Types of Gravel: A Buyer's Guide
Gravel comes in many sizes and shapes, and the right one depends on the job. Here are the common types of gravel in Canada, what each is best for, and how to pick.
The main types of gravel
| Type | Size / shape | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Crusher run (3/4 minus, Granular A) | Crushed + dust | Driveway and slab bases — compacts hard |
| 3/4" clear stone | 19 mm, no fines | Drainage, French drains, top layers |
| Pea gravel | Rounded, 3/8" | Patios, paths, play areas, decoration |
| River rock | Rounded, 1–5" | Landscaping beds, dry creek beds, accents |
| Crushed limestone | Angular, light grey | Paths and surfaces that pack tight |
| Pit run / Granular B | Coarse mixed | Cheap deep sub-base fill |
Angular vs rounded — the key choice
Angular crushed stone (crusher run, clear stone, limestone) has sharp faces that lock together and compact, so it is the choice for any load-bearing or structural job — driveways, slab bases, paths. Rounded stone (pea gravel, river rock) looks great and is comfortable underfoot but will not compact, so keep it decorative or use it where drainage matters more than stability.
Gravel sizes explained
- Fines / stone dust: packs joints; mixed into crusher run.
- 3/8 in (pea gravel): small, smooth, easy to walk on.
- 3/4 in (19 mm): the all-rounder for bases and drainage.
- 1–2 in: drainage and decorative cover.
- 2–5 in: river rock and large decorative stone.
To choose for a specific project, see best gravel for driveways, crushed stone vs gravel, and the gravel depth guide. Then size your order with the Crushed Gravel Calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main types of gravel?
The common ones are crusher run (3/4 minus / Granular A) for bases, 3/4 inch clear stone for drainage, pea gravel and river rock for decoration, crushed limestone for tight-packing surfaces, and pit run (Granular B) for cheap sub-base fill.
What is the difference between angular and rounded gravel?
Angular crushed stone has sharp faces that lock together and compact, so it suits driveways, slab bases and paths. Rounded stone like pea gravel and river rock will not compact, so it is best used decoratively or where drainage matters most.
What size gravel is best for a driveway?
Use 3/4 inch crusher run for the compacting base and 3/4 inch clear stone or crushed limestone for the top. Avoid pea gravel and river rock as a driving surface because round stone ruts and scatters.
What is crusher run gravel used for?
Crusher run — crushed stone mixed with stone dust, also called 3/4 minus or Granular A — is the standard base material for driveways, shed pads and slabs because the dust fills the gaps so it compacts rock hard.
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.