Frequently Asked Questions

Installing landscape fabric beneath pea gravel can help eliminate dirt from contaminating it (moles, ants, holes) and weeds from growing up from the dirt.  However, pea gravel does not have to have a layer beneath it.  A minimum depth of 2 inches is recommended regardless.

Pea gravel will not move with only direct rainfall on it.  However, concentrated flows of water such as near downspouts may push the gravel out of place.  You can reduce these areas of concentrated flows and disperse the flow evenly to prevent pea gravel from moving or consider using a larger sized river rock. 

When properly maintained and installed pea gravel can last indefinitely as it does not decompose like mulch or pine straw.  Pea gravel should not be used where water flows in concentrated areas (larger river rock will work).  When placed on a driveway pea gravel is extremely durable but may need to be replenished over years of high traffic. 

Pea gravel is a smaller rock that is great for use on:

• Pathways, walkways
• Fire pits
• Ground cover around sidewalks, porches/decks, gardens
• Drainage projects
• Patios
• Playgrounds
• Driveways
• Camper or RV pads
• Grave sites and cemeteries

RSI supplies both pea gravel that is from a river that is smooth, rounded pebbles and crushed from rock that is sharp, gray pebbles.  Both are very functional.  The granite gravel is more affordable but the river rock is very attractive. 

Pea gravel or pea pebbles make a great surface to walk on.  The small gravel is not slick and drains water rapidly.  Pea gravel creates a relatively smooth surface compared to larger gravel that you can feel the edges beneath your shoes and tends to shift your feet.