Fuquay-Varina Gravel Delivery

How do I keep gravel from sinking into my clay?

Lay woven geotextile fabric between the clay and the stone. Clay is a slow draining subgrade, so when it stays saturated after our long rain events, stone presses into it under vehicle weight. Fabric spreads the load and keeps the two layers separate. It is inexpensive and easily doubles the life of a Fuquay-Varina gravel drive.

How much stone do I need for a dry creek bed?

For a channel 3 feet wide and 30 feet long with a 4 inch layer, plan on about 1.5 tons. Most Fuquay-Varina yards need a mix, larger 3 to 8 inch cobble along the edges and 57 or 78 stone in the center. Size the channel to the runoff you actually get during a hard summer storm, not an average day.

Is stone or mulch better for the beds along my foundation?

For the narrow drip line right against the house, stone is better because it does not hold moisture against the siding or attract termites, which are active across Wake County. For planting beds further out with shrubs and perennials, stick with hardwood mulch since stone radiates heat and does nothing to improve clay.

Will river rock help my yard drain better?

Only if it is part of a real drainage path. River rock spread over flat clay just sits there while water still pools underneath. Combine it with a graded swale, a French drain, or a downspout extension so there is somewhere for the water to travel. In our rainfall the outlet always matters more than the rock.

Does stone come by the ton or the yard?

We sell stone by the ton because it varies in weight by size and moisture. A rough rule for the Piedmont is that one ton of 57 stone covers roughly 100 square feet at two inches deep. Give us your square footage and depth and we will convert it for you.

Will weeds still grow up through my stone?

Some will. Our long Zone 8a growing season and heavy rain mean windblown seed sprouts in the dust that collects between stones within a year or two. Landscape fabric under the stone stops weeds coming from below, and an occasional blow out with a leaf blower to remove accumulated organic debris handles the rest.

Is crush and run the same as crusher run?

Crush and run refers to crushed stone blended with fine stone dust that compacts into a dense, solid base, which is why it's often used under driveways and pavers. In Fuquay Varina, where heavy rain and red clay soil create drainage headaches, our Crushed Stone #57 is the better choice since it drains freely instead of holding water against your foundation.