Figure area and depth based on use. Columbus decorative beds run shallow. Paths, patios, and driveways run 4 to 6 inches deep.
Use our free stone calculator
What is a yard?
A yard is approximately 27 cubic feet. As a general guideline, one yard of material can cover an area of about 100-160 square feet at a 2-3 inch depth.
A 1 to 2 inch blend of decorative stone. The mixed sizing creates naturally varied coverage with great drainage for beds and borders.
Decorative stone at roughly 1 to 1.5 inches across. Medium large pieces that provide excellent drainage and a clean, defined look in beds and hardscape.
Limestone at 1 to 1.5 inches. Strong, versatile, and drainage ready. Natural gray color works with any landscape while handling serious structural duty.
Versatile decorative stone at half inch to 1 inch size. The all purpose choice for drainage, pathways, beds, and borders.
The workhorse. Limestone at half inch to 1 inch handles drainage, base, and decorative jobs with equal reliability. Clean gray color and proven durability.
Compact decorative stone at 3/8 to 1/2 inch. Delivers smooth coverage for walkways, bed topping, and refined landscape details.
Compact limestone at 3/8 to 1/2 inch for fine grading, fills, and bedding. The precise sizing makes it ideal for detailed work and compacted surfaces.
Classic pea gravel with smooth, rounded edges and natural earth tones. A versatile favorite for pathways, patios, drainage, and decorative ground cover.
Mulch Mound delivered a yard of pea gravel to us. Delivery was on time, driver was friendly and hit a bullseye on the “tarp target”. We used the ...
Read full review
Mulch Mound delivered a yard of pea gravel to us. Delivery was on time, driver was friendly and hit a bullseye on the “tarp target”. We used the pea gravel (which was diameter as specified) to fill several muskrat holes around our pond. I would definitely recommend Mulch Mound to a friend!
Stone and gravel projects depend on depth and use. Trace your path, patio, or drainage area with our satellite tool to estimate yardage at common depths. This helps avoid under-ordering heavy materials or paying for excess you don't need.
Complete Your Outdoor Stone Project
Stone handles paths and borders, but Columbus beds need more. Add mulch for weed control and soil to improve planting conditions on clay loam ground.
Permeable stone surfaces reduce stormwater runoff compared to solid concrete or asphalt and may qualify for environmental incentives, tax credits, or rebates in some Columbus area jurisdictions.
Mulch Mound Pro Tip
Slope all stone surfaces away from structures at minimum 1 inch per 4 feet of distance. Proper pitch prevents water from pooling against foundations and causing expensive moisture damage to your home.
Mulch Mound Pro Tip
Fix low spots in gravel driveways immediately when you notice them forming. Water pools in depressions, softens the base layer underneath, and makes the problem progressively worse over time.
The Unique Landscape of Columbus
Decorative stone is an easy way to upgrade function and curb appeal. Columbus freeze–thaw and spring rain can beat up beds if materials aren’t refreshed. In Columbus, Ohio, stone gives you clean lines and a finish that won’t break down or wash away like organics. It’s great for edging, drainage zones, and decorative areas that need to stay put. Use edging and, where appropriate, fabric to reduce mixing and weeds. From pea gravel to river rock, size and shape change how it drains and how it stays put. Delivery lets you finish the project in one go—no hauling, no repeat trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Click a question to see the answer
Answer
Which stone color stays coolest?
Choose lighter shades: white marble, tan pea gravel, pale granite. Dark stone overheats in Columbus's warm months.
Answer
How do I prepare the area for stone?
Excavate vegetation, grade for water flow, compact subgrade, fabric down, then stone. Columbus's clay loam demands thorough preparation.
Answer
Will stone sink over time?
Without fabric and compaction, yes. Columbus's clay loam makes settling worse. Invest in proper base preparation to avoid it.
Answer
Will stone affect my soil pH?
Yes, certain types. Limestone and marble slowly raise pH. Granite and similar stone won't affect surrounding soil chemistry.
Answer
Should I order extra?
Order 10% over your calculation. Stone settles and spreads. One delivery trip costs less than two based on mileage.
Answer
What depth should stone be?
Decorative areas need 2 inches, paths 3–4, driveways 4–6. Given Columbus's 40-inch annual rainfall, err toward deeper.
Answer
What stone is best for pathways?
Crushed stone and pea gravel work best—they lock together. Large round rock makes unstable walking surfaces.
+2
