#57 Gravel vs Construction Gravel
Side-by-side comparison of #57 Gravel and Construction 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.
Construction gravel is a broad category of mixed-size stone used for general building and site work. It typically includes a combination of crushed stone sizes suitable for base preparation and structural fill.
Common Uses
#57 Gravel
- ✓ Driveways
- ✓ Drainage
- ✓ Concrete mix
- ✓ Pipe bedding
- ✓ Backfill
- ✓ Parking areas
Construction Gravel
- ✓ Construction sites
- ✓ Base layers
- ✓ Backfill
- ✓ Temporary roads
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
Construction Gravel
- + Versatile material
- + Readily available
- + Cost-effective
- + Suitable for many applications
- − Inconsistent sizing
- − Not decorative
- − Varies by supplier
Cost Comparison
| Measure | #57 Gravel | Construction Gravel |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $20 – $35 | $15 – $35 |
| Per cubic yard | $25 – $45 | $20 – $50 |
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.
Construction Gravel
Mixed crushed stone sizes ranging from fines to 1" or larger. Color varies by quarry source.
Published February 11, 2026
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