When planning a commercial construction or landscaping project, the choice between crushed stone and gravel can significantly affect long-term durability, aesthetics, and budget. While both materials are commonly used in commercial settings, each has distinct advantages depending on your project goals. Whether you’re sourcing wholesale crushed stone in Westminster or exploring options for wholesale rock and gravel in Henderson, this guide will help you make an informed choice.

What’s the Difference Between Crushed Stone and Gravel?

The primary difference lies in how the materials are produced.

• Crushed Stone is manufactured by mechanically crushing larger rocks like limestone, granite, or trap rock into specific sizes. It has angular edges and a more uniform texture, which allows it to compact tightly.
• Gravel, on the other hand, is naturally weathered, often found in rivers or other water bodies. It’s rounded, smooth, and typically has more variety in size and color.

Because of its jagged shape, crushed stone is often more stable and compactable, whereas gravel offers smoother aesthetics and better drainage in certain contexts.

Which is Better for Drainage: Gravel or Crushed Stone?

For projects requiring excellent drainage, gravel usually takes the lead. The smooth, round edges of gravel allow water to flow freely between the particles, making it ideal for French drains, drainage layers, or areas prone to water pooling.

That said, crushed stone can still be used effectively in drainage applications—especially if you’re using larger sizes like #3 or #4 crushed stone. However, crushed stone tends to compact more, which may slow water flow in comparison.

Can I Use Gravel as a Base for Commercial Pavers?

You can, but crushed stone is typically better for paver bases—especially in commercial settings where high traffic is expected. Crushed stone, due to its angular nature, locks into place more firmly, creating a stable foundation. This minimizes shifting and uneven settling, especially under heavy loads such as delivery trucks or commercial equipment.

If you’re building a commercial walkway, loading dock, or parking pad, crushed stone is the preferred option for long-term performance.

Is Crushed Stone More Durable Than Gravel?

Yes, crushed stone is generally more durable, especially for structural and high-load applications. Its sharp edges allow it to interlock and form a more stable surface, reducing movement under pressure.

If you’re planning a commercial driveway, road base, or foundation fill, crushed stone offers superior longevity and support. Gravel is better suited for decorative uses or projects where ease of replacement and flexibility are priorities.

How Much Crushed Stone Do I Need Per Square Foot?

The amount of crushed stone you’ll need depends on the depth and application. Here’s a quick reference:

• For most bases: 2–4 inches deep
• 1 cubic yard = ~1.4 tons of crushed stone
• 1 ton = ~100 square feet at 2-inch depth

Use a crushed stone calculator or contact Pillar Aggregates for assistance in calculating your specific needs. Our team provides accurate volume estimates for all types of commercial and industrial projects.

What Size Gravel is Best for Driveways or Parking Lots?

The best gravel size depends on the layers:

• Base Layer: #3 or #4 crushed stone (1–2 inches)
• Middle Layer: #57 gravel (½–¾ inch)
• Top Layer: #8 or crusher run for smooth finish

For parking lots and heavy traffic areas, a well-compacted base of crushed stone topped with smaller gravel ensures long-lasting durability.

What Applications is Crushed Stone Better Suited For?

Crushed stone is particularly effective in commercial applications that require high load-bearing capacity or structural stability, such as:

• Parking lots
• Road sub-base
• Foundations and footings
• Retaining wall backfill
• Drainage trench bedding
• Utility line backfill

Because of its strength and compaction properties, crushed stone is the go-to material for professional-grade construction.

How Much Does Bulk Gravel Cost Compared to Crushed Stone?

Pricing varies by region, material type, and order volume. However:

• Gravel is generally cheaper than crushed stone due to minimal processing.
• Crushed stone costs more because it requires mechanical crushing and grading.

At Pillar Aggregates, we offer competitive bulk pricing for both gravel and crushed stone in Westminster and Henderson. For larger commercial orders, custom quotes and contractor discounts are available.

Does Crushed Stone Compact Better Than Gravel?

Absolutely. Crushed stone’s angular particles make it much more compactable than rounded gravel. This makes it ideal for:

• Sub-base layers under asphalt or concrete
• Heavy load areas
• Sloped surfaces where movement must be minimized

Gravel can still be compacted, but not as tightly—so for long-term support, crushed stone is the better choice.

Where Can I Find Wholesale Crushed Stone Near Me?

If you’re looking for wholesale crushed stone in Westminster or need wholesale rock and gravel in Henderson, Pillar Aggregates is your trusted partner. We supply high-quality landscaping and construction materials at scale, ensuring:

• Timely delivery to job sites
• Competitive pricing for bulk and recurring orders
• Expert support for contractors, planners, and architects

We proudly serve homeowners, commercial developers, and landscape professionals across Colorado with top-tier materials and service. Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for your site or project!