Everything You Need To Know About Pea Gravel Patio Installation

Are you considering a pea gravel patio for your outdoor space? Pea gravel is a fantastic hardscaping material that offers many benefits for your patio, paths, and driveways. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the pros and cons of pea gravel patio installation, the cost associated with it, and more. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to decide if a pea gravel patio is right for you.

Table of Contents

What Is Pea Gravel?

Pea gravel is a small, smooth, naturally rounded river rock, with each stone about the size of a pea (3/8-inch). Also known as CM-16 stone, pea stone, pea pebbles, or pea rock, pea gravel comes in a variety of colors, including gray, cream, tan, gold, black, and white. It is irregular in shape, with some pieces being round, oval, or fractured. Pea gravel is commonly used in patios, walkways, driveways, playgrounds, dog areas, and paths. Its vivid colors when wet make it a popular choice for garden ponds.

Pros and Cons of Pea Gravel Patio Installation

Pros:

Simple installation: Pea gravel is easy to install, making it a great DIY project.
Comfortable underfoot: The smooth texture of pea gravel makes it comfortable to walk on barefoot.
Affordable: Pea gravel is one of the lowest-cost patio hardscape materials available.
Uniformly sized pieces: The uniform size of pea gravel stones gives a clean and tidy look.
Drains well: Pea gravel is excellent for drainage in areas prone to puddling after rain.
Easy to rake: Maintenance is simple, as you can easily rake the stones to keep them in place.

Cons:

Unstable: Pea gravel easily shifts and moves around, requiring frequent leveling.
Messy: Pea gravel can be messy and may scatter if not contained properly.
Weed growth: The spaces between pea gravel stones can collect organic material, leading to weed growth.
Difficult to clean: Cleaning pea gravel can be challenging, especially compared to materials like crushed gravel or pavers.

Pea Gravel Patio Cost

Pea gravel is a budget-friendly option for your patio hardscape. The cost of bulk pea gravel varies by location but typically ranges from $26 to $68 per cubic yard, with an average of $47 per cubic yard. Bagged pea gravel is also available at local outlets but is more expensive, costing about $284 per cubic yard. For professional installation by a landscaping company or contractor, expect to pay between $7 to $20 per square foot. So, a 100-square-foot pea gravel patio may cost around $1,350 or more.

How Much Pea Gravel Do I Need?

When determining how much pea gravel you need for your patio, consider factors like depth and area. For a moderately sized patio of 10 feet by 10 feet at a depth of 2 inches, you will need nearly 1 ton of pea gravel. Increasing the area or depth will require additional gravel. Bulk delivery is a cost-effective option, as bagged pea gravel is more expensive. Consider arranging for palletized delivery for ease of handling.

Maintenance and Repair Tips

Maintaining a pea gravel patio can be challenging due to its shifting nature. Use polymeric sand to help keep the gravel in place and prevent weed growth. It’s best to let snow melt naturally or use safe ice grips to avoid disturbing the gravel. While a leaf blower is the most effective tool for cleaning pea gravel, avoid using rakes and shovels that may displace the stones. Regular raking and replenishing lost gravel can help keep your patio looking fresh.

Pea Gravel Patio Design

A pea gravel patio has a simple and understated design that complements the surrounding landscape. The small size of the stones allows for flexibility in border shapes and edging. Heavy items like pavers and fire pits can sink into pea gravel, so it’s best to place them on a stable base and add gravel around the item for support.

How to Install a Pea Gravel Patio

Installing a pea gravel patio is a straightforward process that you can do yourself. Ensure you have proper retaining borders in place to prevent the gravel from scattering. A grid stabilizer can help stabilize the gravel and maintain its shape over time. Consider different grid options to suit your design preferences.

Brands of Pea Gravel

Local suppliers and home centers offer bulk and bagged pea gravel options for your patio project. Brands like Quikrete and Vigoro provide clean, washed pea gravel in convenient bagged form. Consider the coverage area and depth when purchasing bagged pea gravel for your patio installation.

Comfort and Convenience

Pea gravel is known for its smooth texture, making it comfortable to walk on barefoot. This makes it a popular choice for families with small children who enjoy playing in the yard. While deep gravel may be difficult to walk on, a well-maintained pea gravel patio provides a comfortable outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment.

Pea Gravel Patio vs. Crushed Gravel Patio

Pea gravel and crushed gravel are popular choices for loose patio hardscape materials. Here’s a comparison of the two materials:

Pea Gravel Patio:

Material shifts
Cannot be tamped
Multi-colored 3/8-inch only
Easy to rake
Poor support for heavy items
Smooth underfoot

Crushed Gravel Patio:

Material stable
Can be tamped
Uniformly colored 3/8- to 3-inch
Difficult to rake
Supports heavy items
Uncomfortable underfoot

Is a Pea Gravel Patio Right For You?

A pea gravel patio may be a suitable choice for your outdoor space if you:

Are looking for a budget-friendly patio option.
Prefer a natural and understated design.
Want a comfortable and easy-to-maintain surface.
Are willing to invest time in regular maintenance and cleaning.

By considering the pros and cons of pea gravel patio installation, the cost involved, and maintenance requirements, you can determine if a pea gravel patio is the right choice for you. With proper installation and care, a pea gravel patio can provide a beautiful and functional outdoor space for years to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a pea gravel patio offers many benefits for your outdoor space, including affordability, comfort, and drainage. By understanding the pros and cons, cost considerations, maintenance tips, and design options, you can make an informed decision about installing a pea gravel patio. Whether you choose pea gravel or crushed gravel, both materials have unique characteristics to consider. With proper installation and care, your pea gravel patio can be a welcoming and stylish addition to your home.