What is Pea Gravel and What Can I Do With It?
Pea gravel is used as a decorative material and as a functional ingredient in housing construction and maintenance. Thanks to the size, texture, and color of pea gravel, it is used more often for above ground projects. It can be a great choice for decorating gardens and flower beds. Pea gravel comes in many colors, so it can complement a tastefully made landscape in a home yard. The smooth finish of pea gravel also makes it popular for lining walkways, patios, and other areas where there are a lot of people and animals moving around.
Pea gravel is functional below ground as well, and it is used for drainage and pipe bedding purposes. Some homeowners use it to help erect fence posts, since it can provide a decent foundation. It’s also a good choice when looking for fence post installation aggregate. Finally, pea gravel can function like mulch, since pouring it over soil hinders weed growth while retaining moisture. It can be better than mulch, because it does not decompose like mulch does.
How Do I Install Pea Gravel?
Installing pea gravel is easy, especially when compared to other materials. The basic process goes like this: work the soil about 6 inches deep, get rid of nearby weeds, install 2 inches or so of base rock, and cover the base rock with a 3-inch-deep layer of pea gravel. The base rock stabilizes the pea gravel to provide a firm surface.
If your gravel moves around constantly like a pile of marbles, there probably isn’t any base rock underneath. Mix in some stone dust to fix the issue. If weeds are an issue, landscape cloth might help if you put some between the base rock and the gravel. Just keep in mind that cloth can deteriorate and become visible over time.
Selecting Pea Gravel for Your Project
When it comes to buying pea gravel, size matters. If it is not the right size for the application, it can move around easily, so it will not provide a stable foundation In the front yard wherever pea gravel is applied, it is best to set up concrete blocks or landscape trim to keep the pea gravel in place. In mulch applications, it is also important to note that pea gravel retains heat well, so it could kill some plants. Some plants that pair well with pea gravel include the Spanish poppy, most evergreens, and thyme.
Pea gravel needs to be contained using some edging material. This could be bricks, stones, Bender Board, or metal edging. Pea gravel is also used on paths. Here, it drains rather well and can protect yards from rodents, who can’t burrow through pea gravel.
Don’t put pea gravel over anything where a lot of wheeled tools or items need to be rolled across it. Pea gravel moves around easily, so it will not be stable enough to support that. It is a good habit to avoid placing outdoor furniture on top of pea gravel, too.
Pea Gravel is Great! Where Can I Get It?
If you are looking for pea gravel in Baltimore or are having trouble with your project, contact ReAgg. Our selection of gravel is priced right and we deliver. Because there are so many mines and efficient logistics infrastructure nearby, our rates are among the best you will find, and we can get your gravel to you quickly with our fast, friendly service.
Contact Us
Call us at (301) 336-6700 or toll free at (888) 554-1503 for pea gravel in Baltimore, Maryland, and the Metropolitan area, Washington DC and Northern Virginia.
