Decomposed Granite

Decomposed granite forms as granite bedrock weathers over long periods into a mix of fine, gritty particles and small rock fragments. Quarries screen this weathered material to specific gradations, most commonly sold as 1/4 inch minus or 3/8 inch minus, meaning all particles pass through that screen size. This grading is what separates DG from crushed granite or crushed gravel, which is mechanically crushed into more angular, coarser pieces with a crisper look and higher cost. Color depends entirely on the source rock, so gold and tan tones, browns, reds and roses, grays, and buff or cream shades all come from different quarry regions rather than dyes. Because DG is a natural byproduct of weathering rather than a manufactured aggregate, its texture is softer underfoot and it compacts more predictably into a semi solid surface once moisture and pressure are applied, which is the core trait that makes it useful for pathways and patios rather than just decorative cover.

Start by excavating the area to account for base material plus your finished DG depth, then compact the subgrade so it will not settle unevenly later. For paths and patios, a compacted aggregate base beneath the DG layer improves long term stability, especially in areas with heavy rain or freeze thaw cycles. Spread DG in the depth appropriate to use, 1 to 2 inches for garden beds, 2 to 3 inches for paths and patios, 3 to 4 inches for driveways, then compact it with a plate compactor while lightly misting the material with water, which helps the fines bind together. Edging with steel, plastic, or stone borders reduces migration significantly, particularly on slopes where loose material and heavy rain can wash fines downhill. If you are using a stabilized product, follow the manufacturer's water and cure time before allowing foot or vehicle traffic, since curing is what activates the binder's resistance to washing out.

Compared with gravel and crushed stone. Crushed stone is similar in origin but screened into coarser, more angular pieces, giving it a crisper look and generally higher cost. DG's finer particles compact into a firmer, more walkable surface, making it better suited to paths and patios where gravel would stay loose and shift underfoot.

Compared with pea gravel and crusher run. Pea gravel is rounded and stays loose, prone to scattering and shifting rather than compacting like DG. Crusher run is a construction base material meant to be buried under pavement or pavers, not a finished walking surface, whereas DG is designed to be the visible, walkable top layer.

How much decomposed granite do I need. Measure your square footage, pick a depth based on use, 1 to 2 inches for beds, 2 to 3 for paths and patios, 3 to 4 for driveways, then multiply area by depth in feet and divide by 27 for cubic yards. One cubic yard covers about 324 square feet at 1 inch, scaling down as depth increases. Add roughly 10 percent for compaction and waste, and remember suppliers often convert to tons using about 1.4 tons per cubic yard.

How decomposed granite is sold and delivered. Bulk DG is typically priced and delivered by the ton, since actual density shifts with moisture and screening, though many landscaping quotes still reference cubic yards for simplicity. When searching decomposed granite near me, expect delivery quotes based on your total tonnage and distance, with natural and stabilized versions priced separately since stabilized material includes the added binder cost.