Aggregates

Most gravel driveways and parking areas use 3–4 inches of compacted 3/4″ gravel or 3/4″ pack over a stable base. To estimate, measure length × width × depth in feet, then divide by 27 to get cubic yards of crushed stone needed for your project.

3/4″ gravel is clean crushed stone that drains well, while 3/4″ pack (also called 3/4″ minus or dense grade) mixes stone with fines/stone dust so it compacts into a tighter, more stable base. For driveway base and heavy-traffic areas, many contractors prefer 3/4″ pack because it locks together and resists ruts and washouts.

Stone dust is often used as the top leveling layer under pavers, bricks, and patio stones because it compacts smoothly and helps prevent shifting. Many installers use 3/4″ pack as the main base, then finish with 1–2 inches of stone dust as a paver base to get a flat, stable surface.

Pea stone is a popular choice for walkways, fire pit areas, and play spaces because the small, rounded stones are comfortable underfoot and provide great drainage. For best results, install pea gravel over a compacted crushed stone or sand base with landscape fabric and edging to keep the stones contained

Pool installs typically use a clean, fine sand that can be leveled and compacted to create a smooth, cushioned base under the liner. For patios and walkways, sand or stone dust is often used over compacted 3/4″ gravel or pack as a paver base, depending on local preferences and installer choice.

Bulk gravel, crushed stone, pack, stone dust, sand, and pea stone can be delivered by dump truck directly to homes and job sites in Wilmington and surrounding Middlesex County towns. Delivery zones often include nearby communities like Tewksbury, Billerica, Reading, Woburn, and other local zip codes; call for exact coverage and minimums.

Most suppliers deliver 3/4″ gravel, pack, and sand to driveways or clearly marked drop zones that a dump truck can safely access. Someone should be on-site or reachable by phone to confirm the drop location, move vehicles, and make sure the gravel delivery goes exactly where you need it.

For New England freeze–thaw conditions, a well-compacted base of 3/4″ pack or similar dense grade stone is commonly recommended for new gravel driveways. Some homeowners top the base with a layer of 3/4″ gravel or pea stone for a cleaner look and better drainage while maintaining a solid foundation underneath.

Patios and walkways typically use 4–6 inches of compacted 3/4″ gravel or pack under the paver base, while retaining walls often require 6–12 inches depending on height and load. Always compact in several thin lifts and follow any manufacturer or contractor guidelines for base depth and type of crushed stone.

For general guidance on base depths, see this guide from the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute.

Many hardscape projects use a combination: 3/4″ pack or gravel for the structural base, stone dust or sand for the leveling layer, and pea stone or decorative round stone as the finished surface where desired. Mixing materials correctly lets you get strong compaction, good drainage, and the look you want for driveways, patios, paths, and play areas.