As summer draws near, your thoughts may be turning to fun afternoons outside enjoying your yard and getting you and yours some fresh air and sunshine. A survey for the National Association of Landscape Professionals found that 75% of Americans value time spent outside in the yard. A new sandbox makes a great addition and extra attraction, and is relatively easy to build. Sand for sandboxes comes in various forms. You can use fine sand or a combination of utility sand, construction sand, and crushed gravel for your fill. Sand and gravel delivery service makes the fill process that much easier. There’s always the classic sandbox, but consider these creative ideas for the coolest sandbox in the neighborhood.

The Pallet Box. Rather than tossing out those used pallets, they can be sanded, painted, assembled into formation and filled with sand for an easy play piece.

The Picnic Table Box. This idea is great for those with smaller yards that may not have sufficient room for a full-size sandbox, and provides both seating and sand play. Simply build a frame around the table top, fill it with sand, and add pals and shovels. Your kids can sit or kneel on the table’s seats while building sand castles on the tabletop.

The Tire Box. If you’ve got an old tractor, or other large tire, you can simply lay down liner under the tire, paint the tire in fun colors if you wish, and fill the center with sand. Adhering pool noodles to metal edges keeps things safe.

The Bed Box. This one requires a flat platform bed frame. Fill with sand or a combination of sand and crushed gravel and you are good to go. Bonus points for bed frames with a headboard. Fasten a chalkboard onto the headboard for extra fun.

The Tent Box. Repurpose that old or unused camping tent that’s just taking up space and turn it into a sandbox complete with shade. Once the tent is set up and filled, kids can play inside. This option is also great for kids especially sensitive to direct sun exposure.

One caution: If you make your sandbox cool enough, your yard may become the go-to fun spot for the neighborhood. You may need to stock up on lemonade and refreshing cocktails for your parent friends.

There are a number of reasons to use washed gravel in your landscaping. Some people wonder about when to use washed gravel, what is the answer? Whenever you want! But what are the benefits of using washed gravel when updating your landscaping:

1. It is very cost effective. This is one of the biggest pluses of using washed gravel. When you are looking to change up the look of your property, this is a great way to go if you are on a tight budget. Washed gravel is less pricey than other kinds of materials for landscaping. If you are wondering when to use washed gravel, it works well for driveways and paths around a property. It has a lot of benefits that concrete and asphalt cannot match. It is also less expensive to have delivered and installed.
2. It is easy to maintain. Washed gravel is very easy to maintain. In order to get the best results, you should order a little more than is needed when you get your gravel delivery. If you see a patch in the crushed gravel that is uneven, all you need to do is rake it over. This is way easier than fixing cracks in concrete and asphalt. With gravel, there is no need to get coatings that cost a lot or spend a lot of time sealing the area. You will have to schedule a new gravel delivery every two years or so.
3. It is great for weed control. If you live in an area of the country where weeds are always on the verge of taking over your property, you may want to answer the question of when to use washed gravel, AS SOON AS POSSIBLE! No one likes to deal with weeds and they can wreak havoc on an area covered with concrete or asphalt. The roots from the weeds can do a number on other landscaping materials.
4. You can get your gravel in a number of styles. It also comes in different textures, sizes, colors, and grades. The two most popular styles are crushed and washed. There are a lot of other gravels you have to choose from. No matter what kind of look you want for your landscaping, you can get it with gravel.
5. It is great at soaking up rainwater or letting it flow right by. All gravel is drainage gravel. If you have your gravel installation done correctly, you will eliminate any problems with drainage. When you have asphalt or concrete, rainwater can really do a lot of damage. Especially when it teams up with the weeds that have popped through the surface. Gravel is comprised of individual rocks. Water can wash through them and not cause any problems. Because a surface of gravel cannot crack, water cannot get in and make cracks larger. This is another reason this is a good material that needs little in the way of maintenance.

There are a lot of reasons washed gravel makes a great addition to any landscape plan. It is cost-effective, can match and meet any style, is easy to install and maintain, and is versatile.

Spring is upon us, and many are looking into different types of flowers to add to their garden. Picking out new arrangements and preparing for new things to blossom in your yard space is exciting, but knowing your soil is important for ensuring your plant life thrives.

Good landscaping can bring happiness and contentment to a homeowner’s mindset, and it will increase your home’s curb appeal, too. In fact, some have reported a 14% increase in resale value thanks to improved landscaping. If you are ready to get started, but aren’t sure what steps to take in terms of topsoil, let us help you out.

Read below, then contact Builders Sand and Gravel for all of your landscaping needs. We have the tools and products to set you up right.

Fertility and Texture

There are two main components when it comes to picking the right soil for your needs: fertility and texture. Fertility has a lot to do with the physical features of the topsoil. The texture actually plays a big role in soil fertility, but soil structure, as well as how well it holds water, will make a difference in how successful the plant life is, as well.

Now, when it comes to texture, there are three different thing types of topsoil you can pick from. These are sand, loam, or clay. Clay will retain the most water, which seems beneficial for plant growth, but can wind up drowning them if you are not very cautious. Sand, on the hand, is typically too dry. Plants in sand need a lot of water and can easily dry out on days where the sun is especially hot.

The ideal topsoil comes in the form of loam, which is a mixture of sand and clay. It creates the ideal texture and will be able to hold water well, without leaving your plants in a puddle.

Need Gravel Delivery?

Once you have your flower bed all set up and ready to grow, it may be time to invest in landscaping rocks and gravel. Not only will this help complete the look, but it can help control weed growth, as well. Gravel delivery services are just a phone call away, and it could add the perfect finishing touch to your landscape.

Here at Builders Sand and Gravel, we offer gravel delivery, as well as dirt removal services and topsoil delivery, and we are happy to sell you all kinds of landscaping materials, such as rockery rocks, pea gravel, utility sand, and more. Give us a call today, and we would be happy to work with you.

Utility sand is an extremely versatile product. With the right application and creative idea, you can turn an ordinary backyard into a landscaping dream. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be a challenge to come up with clever and inventive ways to use a somewhat generic material. We figured we’d give you a push in the right direction with these three ways to use utility sand in your yard.

• Sand Bed: If you live in the southern U.S. — or simply prefer its climate and flora — you know that grass is hard to come by. Many homeowners switch to the very low-maintenance utility sand and rock lawns to conserve water without sacrificing appearance. Succulents and cacti thrive in sand, but you must make sure your climate is suited to their health before beginning your own sand and rock garden.
• Natural Sandbox: Kids love to play in the sand. Encourage imagination by building them a sandbox of their own; they can even help you design and construct the final product as an added bonding experience. Soon enough, your afternoons will be filled with sand castles and grand adventures.
• Modernize It: You don’t need to love the south to crave the simplicity of a sand or rock garden. In fact, many modern homes (especially those with small yards) are doing away with grass voluntarily because lawn care can be so taxing. With the right design, your sand and rock yard will carry the sophistication of a well-manicured lawn without actually needing any real manicuring. Let the stress of yard work go by transforming your green oasis into a desert oasis and bask in the relaxation.

The creativity doesn’t have to stop at sand. Crushed rocks, washed gravel, and rockery rocks can all contribute to a backyard that is elegantly styled, and uniquely your own. In fact, approximately 38% of homeowners are interested in upgrading their driveways to the more rare gravel and crushed rock look. Landscapes are very flexible when it comes to design; rather than sticking to the classic (and somewhat boring) clean-cut backyard, experiment with landscaping rocks and see where your imagination takes you.

Healthy and good-quality topsoil can do wonders for your overall landscaping process, and it ensures your plant life stays happier and healthier. Topsoil is the outermost layer of soil in which you plant your flowers and other plants. Most topsoil will be around five inches thick, but it could range anywhere between two and ten inches thick.

It is essential to find the right types of topsoil for your specific needs and preferences, so do not just assume any bag of dirt will do. Learn more below.

What Kind of Topsoil do I Need for my Garden?

There are three different types of topsoil you can invest in for your gardening needs. You can choose between sand, clay, or loam, and each has different benefits. 

Clay will form into a ball when squeezed together, and it is known for having good water retention. While most assume this is perfect for gardening, it could cause you to drown your plants if you are not careful enough.

Sandy topsoil is made up of larger particles that tend to drain quicker than other types of topsoil. You will need to water plants in sandy soil a lot more often, especially in the summer when the heat causes it to dry out quickly.

Loam is a mixture of sand and clay, and most gardeners will deem this as the ideal type to invest in for plant growth. You can think of it as the best of both worlds, in that it holds moisture well, but you face less risks when it comes to over-watering.

Depending on what you are planting, different types of topsoil might work better based on your needs, so do your research, and never hesitate to ask a professional for advice. In no time, your landscaping will be right where it needs to be.

Other Types of Landscaping

Many feel that topsoil is a solid investment when it comes to the look and functionality of their yard space, but many other options out there could work well, too. If you are looking for something a bit different, try investing in rockery rocks, pea gravel, utility sand, crushed gravel, or something similar.

Just one inch of rock can help you out a lot when it comes to gardening. For example, rock is great for weed control, and certain types can last up to a decade if you maintain them properly

No matter what, find something you love and work around that. Great landscaping can guarantee a healthier lawn and can increase your home’s overall value. Get started today to ensure you get the most from your space day after day.

Many different styles of rock provide the beauty and stability for completing various landscaping projects. From lining a pathway to building a retaining wall, rocks are essential building and design tools. However, different types of rocks are appropriate for different projects.

Most rock and building sand suppliers offer extensive sizing options, from pea gravel and utility sand to large rockery rocks. In this article, we’ll be discussing stone options on the larger end of the spectrum: rockery rocks.

What Are Rockery Rocks?

The term “rockery” refers to rock gardens or alpine gardens, which feature decorative stones the size of small boulders. Rockery rocks, then, are the stones used to fill these beautiful and unique garden landscapes. However, rockery rocks can be used in a variety of application beyond decorations. 

Just How Big Are Rockery Rocks?

Generally, rockery rocks refer to boulders about half-man size and up to five man and beyond. For reference, a half man rock might weigh between 10 and 50 pounds, and be eight to 12 inches in size. Some half man rocks can weigh considerably more, depending on their density. The sizes increase quickly from there– rockery rocks that are five man in size might weigh well over a thousand pounds!

While half-man and one-man rocks may be moveable by hand, rocks that are two man or more might require special equipment to maneuver. Ask your quarry or construction service if they offer rock and gravel delivery.

What Are Rockery Rocks Used For?

Though rockery rocks are a favorite decoration for stone gardens, their applications are only limited by the architect’s or landscaper’s creativity. Rockery rocks can be used to build retaining walls or to create stone borders around properties and driveways. Sometimes, rockery rocks are used to build stone steps, benches, and columns. Large stones are also popular in marine applications, such as stone outcroppings for fishing or boat guidance.

Though humble, rockery rocks are incredibly useful for many landscaping projects. By offering stability, beauty, and the sheer impressiveness of their size, they make a great addition to nearly any property, especially since landscaping can increase a home’s resale value by up to 14%. To learn more, give us a call ad Builder Sand and Gravel today!

Rockery rocks come in all shapes and sizes to serve a variety of purposes. From smooth pebbles and washed gravel to boulder-sized landscaping rocks, the huge range of size options allows builders to find the right rock for nearly any outdoor project.

With variety, however, comes difficult choices. To the inexperienced landscaper, it can be tough to know which size and variety of rockery rocks to use in a project.

If you’re planning a project and are unsure which size rock is best, read on. Here’s our quick guide to common rock sizing options and their applications:

Large Boulders and Landscape Rocks

Larger rocks create beautiful centerpieces for different landscapes, and are also commonly used in retainer walls. These large rocks can be anywhere from half-man to 4 or 5 man in size, making them incredibly heavy. These sturdy giants are useful for supporting decorative gardens, building bench rocks, and building outcroppings as well.

Two to Four-Inch Quarry Spalls

These larger, jagged, baseball-sized rockery rocks are often used in smaller retaining walls, or embedded in wet landscapes to provide greater stability for building other structures. Spalls can be compacted fairly well while still allowing water filtration.

3/4 Inch to 2 Inch River Rocks

River rock is a popular type of smooth gravel, typically one to two inches in diameter. This type of rock commonly comes in slightly larger diameters due to its application. Since smooth rocks are often used to mulch flowerbeds and line garden pathways, larger, heavier gravel is less likely to scatter. If you’re creating a pathway or other more decorative garden element, medium-sized river rocks might be the perfect choice!

5/8 Inch Minus Crushed Gravel

This type of gravel includes dust and chips that are all 5/8 of an inch or smaller. Due to its sharper edges and the inclusion of smaller pieces, this gravel compacts easily to create a smooth surface. As such, it is ideal for creating support beds for patios and driveways.

3/8 Inch Pea Gravel

One of the smaller gravel options available, these small round stones create excellent walking comfort when used in by a pool, a pathway, or playground. Pea gravel is ideal for decorative elements as well, like aquariums and fountains.

While this list provides a good introduction to different rock sizing options, there are many, many size alternatives beyond these to meet nearly any construction or landscaping need. To learn more, contact Builders Sand and Gravel Incorporated today!

Drainage Rock is one of the oldest, simplest, and most useful resources available to landscape architects today. Though we may never really think about it, there is a huge variety of stone materials, shapes, and styles that can be used in endless building applications.

One style of stone that builders and homeowners depend on is drain rock. Rather than its size or shape, drain rock is primarily identified by its purpose– as the name suggests, drain rock is a porous gravel material designed to manage the flow of water in a drain.

Common Drain Rock Features

This style of stone comes in a few common sizes: 1 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch, 7/8 inch, or 3/8 of an inch. This smallest size is sometimes called pea gravel as well. These stones can come in rough, jagged varieties, or be smooth in texture, depending on the builder’s preference and their intended application.

Additionally, drain rock color can range as widely as the color of stone, from white to black to different shades of grayish-blue. Often, the color of drain rock will depend on the location of the quarry it came from.

Common Drain Rock Applications

Drain rock is valued for its use in many different drainage techniques. Here are just a few examples of water management and redirection that utilize drain rock:

• French Drains: A French drain is a style of trench that contains a perforated pipe. The trench or hole is filled with drain rock, which allows water to easily flow towards the pipe for redirection. French drains are essential for protecting building foundations from water damage.
• Driveways: Drain rock is sometimes used to line and support paved driveways. When used beneath and around asphalt or concrete, drain rock quickly absorbs runoff water that flows from the impermeable pavement. Since topsoil (the uppermost layer of dirt) is between two and eight inches thick, it doesn’t always absorb rain quickly. Drain rock near driveways can help prevent flooding when topsoil has become saturated.
• Gardening: Finally, gardeners value drainage rock for its ability to prevent soil erosion when used as a mulch. Additionally, drain rock can provide a base layer for garden beds that prevents roots from becoming over-hydrated.

Though a simple tool, drain rock is surprisingly useful. From gardening to construction, crafters of all kinds value its ability to divert and control the flow of water.

If you’re looking for drain rock, washed gravel, or utility sand in the Seattle area, contact Builders Sand and Gravel today!

Gravel and rock of any kind play important roles in the world of landscaping. From lining pathways to mulching gardens, rock in all shapes and sizes provides both beauty and utility in a variety of applications.

Choosing the perfect stone for your project can be a tricky task. Should you choose small pea gravel, washed gravel, or crushed rock for your pathway? What size should the stone be? What color would look the best?

While size and shape largely come down to practicality, selecting the color of your stone is a matter of personal preference. To choose a stone color you’ll love for years, try using the following guide:

1. Coordinate With Other Elements In the Space

Though pea gravel can be a pretty and charming aspect of your yard, chances are, it’s not the star of the show. When designing a landscape, most homeowners want to show off other lawn elements, like flowers, trees, or yard furniture. Consider these features when choosing a gravel color– if you have a lot of black patio furniture, consider choosing a light stone to contrast the dark. Or, if you already have stone features, pick a similar stone color to help unify your overall landscape.

2. Play With Contrasts and Multicolor

Contrast is a useful tool for calling attention to other yard features. If you have a display of bright white flowers, dark gray, deep brown, or black pea gravel will offset the pale blooms. If you want your gravel pathway to be more visually interesting, you can even order pea gravel in mixed tones and colors.

3. Add Drama with Monochrome

Many designers prefer the bold, stark appearance of saturated monochromes. For example, deep black or nearly white drain rock can create clear borders around flower beds and walkways, which call attention to their shape. If you want a bold, modern look, a single dark or light pea gravel color might be the perfect choice.

4. Consider Temperature

Dark black gravel tends to retain heat, while white rock and utility sand tend to reflect hot temperatures. Consider the amount of sun and shade if your outdoor landscape, and choose colors to help manage temperatures throughout the seasons.

When properly installed, gravel and stone elements can least for years. Even a gravel driveway can last three to five or even 10 years with regular upkeep and maintenance. Use this guide to enjoy the color stone you select for years to come. For more information about gravel and rockery rocks of all kinds in the Seattle area, visit builderssandandgravelinc.com today!

According to a study conducted by Houzz Landscape Trends in 2017, 38% of homeowners upgraded their pathways, driveways, patios, and terraces use crushed gravel or rock. However, crushed gravel, river rocks, and rockery rocks can be used in a variety of home improvement projects beyond outdoor spaces.

The natural beauty and durability of river rocks make them a prime choice for many interior design applications. Different shapes, sizes, color tones, and variations in natural stones are all part of what makes them so appealing in any aspect of your home design.

If you’re looking to upgrade the appearance of your home’s interior, here are a few ways to incorporate all kinds of rocks for a beautiful, modern approach:

Fireplace Upgrades

From residential home design to commercial ski resorts and mountain cabins, natural elements like rock contribute to a homey, cozy feeling when sitting next to a fireplace. Large rockery rocks can make any fireplace truly wow your guests, since the natural stone makes the fireplace seem like an ancient cave. For a subtler approach, smaller river rocks create neutral tones and interesting textures for your mantle and chimney decoration. As a bonus, stone is naturally heat resistant, which helps your fire stay contained and your home stay safe.

Spa-Like Bathrooms

Incorporating washed gravel and other stones give a bathroom a muted, relaxed atmosphere, and enhances feelings of natural rejuvenation. River rock is generally very smooth to the touch, which makes it a great sensory addition to your bathroom. Try using a layer of drain rock over the floor in the shower to feel like you’re bathing in a waterfall, or build a sink out of a layer of natural rock for a statement vanity area.

Indoor Garden Elements

Rock gardens and rockery rocks elevate your home’s curb appeal when used outdoors. However, just as plants look good indoors and outdoors, so can rocks! Try crafting a small stone garden in the corner of your living room or porch where you keep your house plant display. If you manage the interior of a hotel or a resort, you can even build a large-scale indoor rockery rock garden for natural beauty that doesn’t need regular watering or pruning.

While rock features can make a home’s exterior stand out, using rock indoors is even more bold. For unique blend of modern home design and natural, traditional elements, try out any of the ideas listed above. Bring rockery rocks, river rocks, and pea gravel inside for a more beautiful and daring interior space.