Pea Gravel: Coverage, Depth & Uses
Smooth, rounded ⅜″ stone for patios, paths, and play areas.
Calculate pea gravel for your project
Pea gravel is small (⅜″), rounded, and smooth — comfortable underfoot and visually soft. It's popular for patios, walkways, dog runs, and drainage where a decorative look matters.
Because it's rounded, pea gravel doesn't lock together. Contain it with edging (steel, stone, or plastic) or it will migrate. 2–3″ depth is standard for walkable surfaces.
One cubic yard weighs ~2,800 lb and covers ~100 sq ft at 3″. For paths on top of soil, lay landscape fabric first to prevent mixing.
Common uses
- Patios and courtyards
- Garden and walkway paths
- Dog runs
- Playground surfacing
- Around fire pits
Types of pea gravel
Frequently asked
How deep should pea gravel be for a patio?
3 inches over a compacted base and landscape fabric.
Does pea gravel need a base?
Yes — 3–4″ of compacted crusher run and edging. Without a base it sinks and spreads.
Is pea gravel good for driveways?
Only with strong edging and a compacted base — it shifts under tires and is best for low-traffic use.