Best Type of Aggregates for Driveways

Selecting the right aggregate for your driveway is a crucial step toward ensuring long-term durability, strong performance, and curb appeal. From crushed stone to recycled concrete, each type of aggregate has distinct characteristics that influence performance, appearance, and maintenance requirements.

This guide walks through the most common aggregate options for driveways and helps you choose the best fit based on your climate, usage needs, and aesthetic preferences.

What Are Driveway Aggregates?

Driveway aggregates are materials composed of crushed stone, gravel, or recycled materials that form the base or surface of a driveway. They provide structure, stability, drainage, and resistance to weather and vehicle traffic.

Depending on the project goals, aggregates can be used alone or as part of a layered driveway system, typically consisting of a sub-base, base, and surface layer.

Why the Right Aggregate Matters

The aggregate you choose affects:

• Load-bearing performance: Important for vehicle weight and daily wear

• Drainage: Prevents water buildup and erosion

• Appearance: Enhances curb appeal and property value

• Maintenance requirements: Some aggregates shift or degrade more quickly than others

Selecting the right material will reduce upkeep, extend the life of your driveway, and ensure it performs well in your specific environment.

Types of Aggregates for Driveways

Gravel

Gravel driveways are popular for their affordability, ease of installation, and natural appearance. Available in various sizes and colors, gravel provides excellent drainage and blends well in rural or informal settings.

• Pros: Cost-effective, easy to install, good drainage

• Cons: Requires regular maintenance and occasional topping off

• Best for: Large or rural driveways, areas with high rainfall

Crushed Stone

Crushed stone provides a more angular and compactable surface than loose gravel. It locks in tightly, making it ideal for driveways that need a firm base to withstand traffic and weather.

• Pros: Highly durable, low maintenance, customizable in color and size

• Cons: Higher cost than basic gravel, requires proper edging to prevent spreading

• Best for: High-traffic driveways, formal or urban settings

Recycled Concrete (RCA)

Recycled concrete aggregates are created from crushed, reclaimed concrete. They provide similar durability to crushed stone at a lower cost and support sustainable building practices.

• Pros: Environmentally friendly, durable, budget-conscious

• Cons: Limited color options, can look rougher than natural stone

• Best for: Budget-conscious projects, heavy-use driveways

Pea Gravel

Pea gravel consists of small, rounded stones that offer a polished, decorative look. While visually appealing, the loose nature of pea gravel means it can shift under tires or foot traffic.

• Pros: Aesthetic appeal, excellent drainage

• Cons: Shifts easily, not ideal for heavy traffic, may require stabilizing grid or edging

• Best for: Light-use or decorative driveways, walkways, urban homes

What to Consider When Choosing Driveway Aggregate

Climate and Drainage

• Wet climates benefit from materials like pea gravel or clean crushed stone with excellent drainage.

• Freeze-thaw cycles require durable aggregates that resist movement, like compacted crushed stone.

Vehicle Load and Usage

• Daily use by heavy vehicles demands materials with high compressive strength, such as recycled concrete or crushed granite.

• Light residential traffic allows more flexibility with decorative options like pea gravel.

Budget

• Gravel and recycled concrete are often the most cost-effective options.

• Crushed stone or specialty decorative aggregates may come at a premium but offer higher performance and aesthetic appeal.

Maintenance

• Loose materials like gravel and pea gravel require regular raking and replenishment.

• Well-compacted stone bases typically need less frequent upkeep.

Appearance

• Color and texture matter, especially for visible driveways. Gravel, crushed limestone, and granite are available in various shades to complement your landscaping.

Aggregate Comparison Summary

Order Driveway Aggregates from Ottr

At Ottr Mulch, Rock & Soil Delivery, we make it easy to get the right driveway materials delivered directly to your project site. Whether you're looking for gravel, crushed concrete, or limestone, we offer local delivery and upfront pricing through our online store.

Shop driveway-ready aggregates today and use our built-in calculator to estimate your needs in cubic yards or tons. We'll handle the rest — from quote to drop-off.