Will Crushed Concrete Wash Out?

A Guide for Boston-Area Builders & Homeowners

If you’re considering using crushed concrete (also known as recycled concrete aggregate or RCA) for your next project, one question might come to mind:
Will it wash out over time?

It’s a valid concern — especially for projects like driveways, base layers, or slopes, where erosion can lead to headaches down the road. The good news? With the right material and installation, crushed concrete can be a highly durable, erosion-resistant option.

What Is Crushed Concrete?

Crushed concrete is created by recycling old concrete from demolished structures. It’s broken down, screened, and repurposed into a usable aggregate that performs well as a base material. At Ottr, we deliver crushed concrete fines and larger aggregate throughout Greater Boston — making it easy to build sustainably, affordably, and confidently.

Crushed concrete is commonly used for:

• Driveways & road base

• Pipe bedding

• Walkways & patios

• Foundation backfill

• General fill

It’s affordable, eco-friendly, and widely available. But does it hold up against the elements?

Can Crushed Concrete Wash Out?

Yes — but only under certain conditions.
Like any loose material, crushed concrete can be vulnerable to washout if:

• It’s installed on a steep slope without support

• Drainage is poor or water pools in the area

• The material isn’t compacted properly

• The source material is low-quality or oversized

That said, proper installation and good site prep virtually eliminate washout risks.

How to Prevent Washout

Here are a few best practices we recommend to help your crushed concrete stay put:

✅ Compaction is Key

Always compact your crushed concrete in multiple layers to build density and prevent movement. A properly compacted base is much less likely to erode.

✅ Use It in the Right Applications

Crushed concrete works great as a base layer or fill. If you’re using it on a slope, consider pairing it with edging, grid stabilization, or a retaining structure.

✅ Ensure Proper Drainage

Standing water is your enemy. Grade the area to promote runoff or use a drainage layer (like washed gravel) beneath the crushed concrete to reduce water buildup.

✅ Maintain as Needed

Over time, high-traffic areas might show some signs of wear. Regrading or topping off material can extend the life of your installation.

Quality Matters

Not all crushed concrete is created equal. At Ottr, we source from local recycling yards that screen and process the material to consistent specs, so you get:

• Clean fines and aggregates

• Consistent particle size

• Fewer contaminants like wood or rebar

• Reliable compaction and drainage performance

Choosing high-quality crushed concrete reduces the risk of erosion and helps your project last longer.

Ordering Crushed Concrete with Ottr

We make it easy to get crushed concrete delivered to your driveway, job site, or backyard — no back-and-forth phone calls required.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Head to our Crushed Concrete product page

2. Use the calculator to estimate how much you need

3. Pick your delivery date at checkout

4. Let Ottr handle the rest

Need help deciding how much or which type to use? Message us — we’ll guide you through it.

Final Thoughts

Yes, crushed concrete can wash out — but with the right material, smart prep, and a little maintenance, it’s a long-lasting, erosion-resistant option for a wide range of uses.

Whether you're filling in a base for a patio, building a driveway, or stabilizing an area prone to erosion, Ottr delivers the crushed concrete you need — when and where you need it.

Ready to Build with Crushed Concrete?
Order online from Ottr and get reliable, eco-friendly material delivered straight to your project site. No games, no delays — just solid service.