#57 Gravel vs Bank Run Gravel
Side-by-side comparison of #57 Gravel and Bank Run Gravel to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Crushed stone approximately 3/4 to 1 inch in size. One of the most versatile and commonly used gravel sizes in both residential and commercial construction. #57 stone is the go-to aggregate for drainage, driveways, and concrete production.
Bank run gravel is a naturally occurring mix of sand, gravel, and small stones excavated directly from pits or riverbanks. Unlike crusher run, it is not mechanically crushed or screened, resulting in inconsistent sizing.
Common Uses
#57 Gravel
- ✓ Driveways
- ✓ Drainage
- ✓ Concrete mix
- ✓ Pipe bedding
- ✓ Backfill
- ✓ Parking areas
Bank Run Gravel
- ✓ Rural driveways
- ✓ Base fill
- ✓ Backfill
- ✓ Construction fill
Pros & Cons
#57 Gravel
- + Extremely versatile — works for many applications
- + Excellent drainage characteristics
- + Good compaction when combined with fines
- + Widely available nationwide
- + Cost-effective
- − Too coarse for comfortable walking
- − Angular edges
- − Shifts under foot traffic without stabilization
- − Requires a finer top layer for driveways
- − Not decorative
Bank Run Gravel
- + Low cost
- + Minimal processing
- + Good general fill material
- − Inconsistent size
- − Poor compaction compared to crusher run
- − Can contain excess sand
Cost Comparison
| Measure | #57 Gravel | Bank Run Gravel |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $20 – $35 | $15 – $30 |
| Per cubic yard | $25 – $45 | $20 – $40 |
Sizes & Colors
#57 Gravel
#57 gravel consists of angular crushed stone pieces ranging from 3/4" to 1" in diameter. Color depends on the quarry source — typically gray, blue-gray, or brown. The stones are angular and irregular, which helps them interlock.
Bank Run Gravel
Unscreened blend ranging from sand up to 2" stones. Color varies by region.
Published February 11, 2026
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