Lava Rock vs Pea Gravel
Side-by-side comparison of Lava Rock and Pea Gravel to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Lava rock is a lightweight, porous volcanic stone commonly used in landscaping. Its rough texture helps retain moisture while allowing airflow to plant roots.
Small, rounded stones about 3/8 inch in diameter. Smooth texture and available in natural earth tones. Pea gravel is one of the most popular decorative gravels for residential projects thanks to its comfortable feel underfoot and attractive appearance.
Common Uses
Lava Rock
- ✓ Landscaping
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Decorative ground cover
Pea Gravel
- ✓ Patios
- ✓ Walkways
- ✓ Playgrounds
- ✓ Drainage
- ✓ Landscaping beds
- ✓ Garden paths
Pros & Cons
Lava Rock
- + Very lightweight
- + Excellent moisture retention
- + Decorative appearance
- − Breaks down over time
- − Sharp edges
- − Can scatter easily
Pea Gravel
- + Affordable and widely available
- + Smooth and comfortable underfoot
- + Excellent drainage
- + Attractive natural colors
- + Easy to spread and install
- − Shifts and migrates easily
- − Not ideal for driveways (poor compaction)
- − Requires edging to stay contained
- − Can be tracked indoors
- − Difficult to shovel snow from
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Lava Rock | Pea Gravel |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $90 – $150 | $25 – $50 |
| Per cubic yard | $110 – $180 | $30 – $60 |
Sizes & Colors
Lava Rock
Typically 3/4"–1.5" sizes. Red or black.
Pea Gravel
Pea gravel ranges from 1/4 to 3/8 inch in diameter. It comes in natural earth tones including tan, brown, white, gray, and rust. Some suppliers offer mixed-color blends. The stones are naturally rounded and smooth from water erosion.
Published February 11, 2026
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