3/8″ Crushed Stone

3/8″ crushed stone-sometimes called pea-size crushed rock or #8 stone-is a small, angular aggregate prized for its balance of strength, drainage, and clean finish. Its compact size makes it ideal for pathways, driveways, patios, and decorative landscaping, while still sturdy enough for base layers in lighter construction projects.

“Small in size but big in versatility-3/8″ crushed stone is the material that ties together both beauty and function.”

Quantity Calculator

Use our project calculator to determine how much 3/8″ crushed stone you’ll need for driveways, pathways, or landscaping.

3/8″ Crushed Stone: What You Need to Know

3/8″ crushed stone is produced by mechanically crushing larger rock-commonly limestone, granite, or trap rock-and screening it down to uniform fragments about the size of a pea. Unlike rounded pea gravel, 3/8″ crushed stone has angular faces that interlock when compacted, forming a surface that resists shifting, spreading, or rutting.

Colors vary by quarry and region, typically ranging from light gray to tan, with occasional bluish or brown undertones. Its clean, consistent appearance makes it suitable for both functional and decorative applications.

While it is small in size, it’s important to distinguish 3/8″ crushed stone from sand. Sand compacts too tightly and lacks void space, while 3/8″ crushed stone maintains permeability, allowing water to drain freely while still creating a stable surface.

Why It Works for You: Applications & Versatility

3/8″ crushed stone is one of the most versatile aggregates available. Here’s where it excels:

Pathways & Walkways

Creates a firm, stable walking surface that resists movement better than pea gravel. Its small size provides comfort underfoot while its angular edges help it stay in place.

Driveway Surfaces & Top Layers

Though not as rugged as larger gravel bases, 3/8″ crushed stone works well as a finishing layer on light-use driveways or as a top-dress on established gravel drives.

Patio Bases & Paver Foundations

Perfect as a bedding material beneath pavers, bricks, or flagstone. Its size makes it easy to spread evenly, while its angular texture locks into place for consistent support.

Decorative Landscaping

Often used around garden beds, water features, or as a filler between stepping stones. Its tidy, small-scale appearance adds a refined look to outdoor designs.

Drainage & Erosion Control

When clean and washed, 3/8″ crushed stone is used in French drains, swales, and around downspouts to manage stormwater runoff and prevent soil erosion.

Utility & Construction Projects

Works as backfill around pipes, utility trenches, or retaining walls, providing both stability and water flow.

Key Benefits of 3/8″ Crushed Stone

• Compact & Stable – Angular edges interlock, forming a strong surface for footpaths, patios, and light driveways.

• Excellent Drainage – Allows water to pass through voids, reducing puddling and erosion.

• Versatile Use – Suitable for decorative, structural, and functional roles.

• Low Maintenance – Once compacted, it requires minimal upkeep compared to sand or mulch.

• Easy to Handle – Lightweight and manageable, ideal for small DIY projects as well as contractor jobs.

• Natural Appearance – Blends easily into landscaping with neutral, earthy tones.

Compared to Alternatives

• Pea Gravel: Rounded, more comfortable barefoot but prone to rolling and migration.

• Sand: Good for bedding but too fine to resist compaction or provide drainage.

• Larger Gravel (¾″+): Better for heavy load-bearing but rougher and less refined for decorative use.

• 3/8″ Crushed Stone: The middle ground-stable, attractive, and highly versatile.

Installation Know-How

Getting the most out of 3/8″ crushed stone means following the right steps.

Step 1: Site Preparation

• Clear all vegetation, roots, and debris.

• Excavate to the required depth (2-4 inches for paths, 4-6 inches for patios, 8 inches for driveways).

• Ensure a slight slope (about ¼ inch per foot) for drainage.

Step 2: Base Layer

For load-bearing projects like driveways or patios, install a sub-base of larger crushed stone (¾″ or crusher run) beneath the 3/8″ stone. Compact thoroughly with a plate compactor.

Step 3: Apply 3/8″ Crushed Stone

Spread in 2-inch lifts (layers). For small projects, use a shovel and rake; for larger projects, use a wheelbarrow or skid steer.

Step 4: Compact Each Layer

Use a plate compactor or hand tamper to lock the angular stones in place. This step ensures stability and reduces future settling.

Step 5: Finish Grading

Rake smooth and check slope for proper water runoff. Install edging if needed to keep stone from migrating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping Compaction: Uncompacted stone will shift, rut, or spread.

• Too Thin: Less than 2 inches will expose soil and reduce effectiveness.

• No Base Layer: For driveways or patios, laying only 3/8″ stone without a larger base invites settling.

• Poor Drainage Planning: Flat installations can cause pooling even with permeable stone.

• Neglecting Edging: Without borders, stone may migrate into lawns or beds.

Long-Term Maintenance Tips

Rake & Regrade Seasonally

Redistribute displaced stone and smooth out uneven areas after heavy rains or snow.

Top Off Every 1-2 Years

Add fresh stone to replace material lost to compaction, plowing, or traffic.

Weed Management

Install landscape fabric under paths and patios to reduce weeds. Spot-treat with safe herbicides if necessary.

Snow Removal Care

Set snowplow or blower blades slightly above the stone surface to avoid displacement.

Monitor Drainage

Inspect after storms to ensure water flows properly. Adjust grading or add material if puddling develops.

Seasonal & Environmental Benefits

• All-Weather Performance: Resists freeze-thaw cycles and stays firm in both wet and dry conditions.

• Eco-Friendly Choice: Contains no binders, petroleum products, or chemicals-just natural stone.

• Temperature Moderation: Reflects heat better than asphalt, making paths and patios more comfortable in summer.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Mix with finer screenings for tighter compaction under pavers.

• Use edging for walkways to create clean lines and reduce maintenance.

• Over-order by 5-10% to ensure full coverage and account for settling.

• Consider using in combination: 3/8″ for surface finish, larger gravel for structural base.

Conclusion

3/8″ crushed stone may be small in size, but it’s one of the most versatile materials in landscaping and construction. Whether you’re building a garden path, surfacing a patio, topping a driveway, or managing drainage, this aggregate delivers stability, drainage, and a clean natural look.

With proper installation and seasonal maintenance, it provides years of reliable performance and timeless curb appeal. For homeowners, landscapers, and contractors alike, 3/8″ crushed stone is the go-to choice when you need a material that balances beauty and function.