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Mexican Beach Pebble vs Recycled Asphalt

Side-by-side comparison of Mexican Beach Pebble and Recycled Asphalt to help you choose the right gravel for your project.

Overview

Mexican Beach Pebble

Mexican beach pebbles are smooth, naturally tumbled stones commonly used in modern and decorative landscaping. They are prized for their uniform shape, rich color, and polished appearance.

Recycled Asphalt

Recycled asphalt is made from reclaimed asphalt pavement that has been crushed and screened. When compacted, it hardens over time as residual asphalt binder reactivates, creating a durable and cost-effective driving surface.

Common Uses

Mexican Beach Pebble

  • Decorative landscaping
  • Garden beds
  • Planters
  • Water features

Recycled Asphalt

  • Driveways
  • Parking areas
  • Rural roads
  • Access roads

Pros & Cons

Mexican Beach Pebble

  • + Very attractive appearance
  • + Smooth texture
  • + Long-lasting
  • + Low dust
  • Expensive
  • Poor traction
  • Can shift easily

Recycled Asphalt

  • + Very affordable
  • + Compacts into a hard surface
  • + Less dust than gravel
  • + Reuses existing materials
  • Can soften in extreme heat
  • Dark color absorbs heat
  • Limited availability in some regions

Cost Comparison

Measure Mexican Beach Pebble Recycled Asphalt
Per ton $120 – $200 $15 – $30
Per cubic yard $150 – $240 $20 – $45

Sizes & Colors

Mexican Beach Pebble

Available in sizes from 1" to 3". Commonly black, charcoal, or dark gray.

Recycled Asphalt

Crushed asphalt pieces typically under 1 inch. Black or dark gray in color.

Published February 11, 2026

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