Gravel, crushed stone and sand: names, specifications and quote bases.
What should you check before comparing aggregate names, prices and volume estimates?
A common name is not a complete specification
USGS describes natural aggregate sources and notes that terminology can vary among users and regions. Gravel, crushed stone and sand name broad material categories. A decorative trade name or a nominal particle-size label does not by itself supply a grading distribution, density or suitable application.
Compare supplier descriptions on a named basis
Record the selected product code, stated grading, volume or mass basis, density if supplied, moisture basis, delivery increment and quoted charges. Do not decide a structural base, drainage specification, driveway suitability or safe load from these names.
Volume and mass quotes need compatible inputs
An illustrative 0.5 m³ order at a supplied density of 1,600 kg/m³ corresponds to 800 kg or 0.8 metric tonnes. A quote per metric tonne is different from a quote per US short ton. Use the supplier’s actual basis and compatible density; do not assume every aggregate has the illustrative density.
Particle sizes do not substitute for a design
Comparisons such as pea gravel versus crushed stone or 3/4 in versus 1/2 in can be narrowed to documented grading and complete quote inputs. Suitable use still depends on the established application specification. A lower price does not establish stable walking, vehicle or drainage performance.
Use the matching calculator
Use this decision sequence
- Record the exact item and the scope described below.
- Check the cited guidance against your product or local growing conditions.
- Measure only the quantities needed for the selected plan.
- Keep the supplied assumptions with the purchase estimate.
Keep the quantities distinct
| Quantity or assumption | How to use it |
|---|---|
| Material name | A broad category or trade label. |
| Grading and density | Obtain named supplier data. |
| Cost | Compare the complete supplied order basis. |
Worked comparison
At supplied 1,600 kg/m³, a 0.5 m³ order represents 800 kg; a stated density on a different volume basis cannot be substituted.
Check before using the estimate
No depth, compaction factor, vehicle capacity or foundation material is selected.
All dimensions, product properties, prices and specifications in this example are illustrative arithmetic inputs. Use the values from your measured plan, selected product data sheet and supplier quote. This guide does not choose construction specifications or certify safety.
Sources and product references
References support the factual distinctions and scope described above. Growing guidance is regional and care instructions are product-specific. Worked numerical examples are independent illustrative arithmetic.
Calculation and scope checked 2026-10-13. Methods and scope.