What Is Washed Gravel? Understanding Washed Gravel, Drainage Gravel, and River Rock

Most gravel has a rough, textured look. These rocks are used for long driveways, roads, and other heavy duty applications. Washed gravel, on the other hand, has the appearance of smooth river rocks, making it ideal for more upscale properties or when visual appearances are important. However, it also has a lot of other practical benefits.

If you’re trying to decide on the right type of landscaping rocks, you may be looking for more information on washed gravel. Hopefully, these differing types of crushed gravel will help you better understand: 

River rock is a popular type of smooth gravel that is usually between one and two inches in diameter, though sometimes larger. This type of rock is primarily used for landscaping jobs to create the appearance of a dried river bed. It can also be used for bordering a planting strip, flower bed, or property accent. 

1 and a half drain rock is the most common size for drainage gravel. This style of gravel can be used for drainage systems, septic systems, river rock in a dry river bed, French drains, or general landscaping gravel. Since the rocks are much larger than other kinds of gravel or drain rock, this material is much better suited for larger projects and jobs. 

Smaller drain rocks can come in sizes as small as three-fourths or seven-eighths. Though similar to the inch and a half drain rock, this material is obviously a little smaller, making it more useful for smaller landscaping projects or unique household gardening projects. 

Pea gravel is the smallest type of crushed washed gravel. This type of gravel is about three-eighths inches in size and has a more colorful appearance. As the smallest kind of washed gravel, this material is great for smaller custom jobs like layering an aquarium, providing the base to a fire pit, and placing underneath a children’s playground. 

Hopefully, this helped you better understand what is washed gravel and how it’s used. Keep in mind that all of these styles of gravel can be great for various landscaping jobs like pathways, accent features, garden borders, and luxurious driveways. 

Still not sure what type of washed gravel is right for your landscaping project? Contact Builders Sand and Gravel Inc. to learn more about rockery rocks today.