Thinking about sprucing up your outdoor space? Pea gravel might be just the ticket! This versatile landscaping material has been gaining popularity, and for good reason. It’s not only attractive but also practical for a variety of projects around your home.
But before you dive in, you’re probably wondering about the cost. After all, budget is a key factor in any home improvement project. How much should you expect to spend on pea gravel in 2024?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down all the factors that influence pea gravel pricing. From project size to installation methods, we’ll cover everything you need to know to budget for your pea gravel project. Whether you’re planning a new pathway, a charming patio, or a low-maintenance driveway, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to learn more? Let’s dive into the world of pea gravel pricing!
How Much Does Pea Gravel Cost
What is Pea Gravel, Anyway?
First things first – what exactly is pea gravel? It’s pretty simple:
- Pea gravel is made up of tiny stones
- These stones are rounded and smooth
- They got that way from natural weathering
- You can find pea gravel in different colors
Pea gravel is super versatile. You can use it for:
- Pathways
- Patios
- Driveways
- And more!
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Average Pea Gravel Costs in 2024
Let’s cut to the chase. Here’s what you can expect to pay for pea gravel installation this year:
- National average cost: $335
- Typical price range: $275 – $395
- Low-end cost: $245
- High-end cost: $1,235
But wait, there’s more! If you’re thinking in terms of square feet, pea gravel usually costs between $0.86 and $3.78 per square foot.
Size Matters: Pea Gravel Cost by Project Size
The biggest factor in your pea gravel project cost? Size, of course! Let’s break it down:
Small Project (100 square feet)
- Average cost: $232
Medium Project (200 square feet)
- Average cost: $464
Large Project (400 square feet)
- Average cost: $928
These numbers are based on an average cost of $2.32 per square foot. Remember, your actual cost might be a bit different depending on where you live and other factors.
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Other Things That Can Affect Your Pea Gravel Costs
Size isn’t everything. Here are some other things that can change how much you’ll pay:
1. Type of Project
Different projects need different depths of pea gravel. More depth means more gravel, which means higher costs. Here’s a handy formula to figure out how much gravel you need:
(Length in Feet x Width in Feet x Depth in Feet) ÷ 27 = Cubic Yards of Pea Gravel
Let’s look at some common projects:
Pathway (30′ x 4′)
- Recommended depth: 2 inches
- Cubic yards needed: 0.74
- Average cost: $37
Driveway (20′ x 24′)
- Recommended depth: 6 inches
- Cubic yards needed: 8.89
- Average cost: $444
Patio (10′ x 10′)
- Recommended depth: 6 inches
- Cubic yards needed: 1.85
- Average cost: $92
Flower bed (8′ x 5′)
- Recommended depth: 3 inches
- Cubic yards needed: 4.44
- Average cost: $222
2. Buying in Bags vs. Buying in Bulk
You can buy pea gravel in bags or in bulk. Bulk is usually cheaper if you need a lot. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Price per bag: $4 – $7
- Price per ton: $10 – $50
- Price per truckload: $250 – $500
One bag covers about 0.5 cubic feet. One ton covers about 100 square feet at 2 inches deep. A truckload is usually about 25 tons.
3. Type of Pea Gravel
Plain pea gravel is usually grey or brown. But if you want to get fancy, you can find colorful or even glow-in-the-dark options! These special types can add $30 to $60 to your project cost.
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While you’re at it, why not consider some other outdoor projects? Here are some ideas:
Flower Beds
- Cost: $1,000 – $3,000
- Pea gravel is great for flower beds! It stops weeds, protects plants, keeps moisture in the soil, and prevents erosion.
Rock Garden
- Cost: Varies (landscape boulders cost $100 – $900 per ton, river rock costs $60 – $170 per ton)
- A rock garden is like a low-maintenance flower bed. Pea gravel fits right in!
Xeriscaping
- Average cost: $17,000
- This is a water-saving landscaping style. It uses gravel, mulch, and plants that don’t need much water.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete
- Cost: About $6.35 per square foot
- This is concrete with decorative stones (like pea gravel) mixed in or on top.
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DIY or Hire a Pro? Let’s Compare Costs
Thinking about installing pea gravel yourself? Here’s what you might spend on tools:
| DIY Equipment | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Work gloves | $15 |
| Hammer | $20 |
| Measuring tape | $20 |
| Level | $15 |
| Garden rake | $20 |
| Garden hose with a nozzle | $45 |
| Wheelbarrow | $65 |
| Square point/transfer Shovel | $30 |
| Tamper | $40 |
| Total Cost: | $270 |
For a 200-square-foot project:
- DIY cost (including gravel): About $734
- Professional cost: About $669
A pro might be cheaper if you don’t already have the tools. They might also be better for big or tricky projects.
Location, Location, Location: How Where You Live Affects Cost
The best place to buy pea gravel is usually close to home. Why? Because delivery costs can add $5 to $10 per mile to your bill. The closer the supplier, the less you’ll pay.
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FAQs: Your Burning Pea Gravel Questions, Answered!
- Q: How do I take care of pea gravel?
A: It’s pretty easy! Just rake it back into place if it shifts. Snow removal can be tricky, though. You might want to hire a pro for that (it usually costs $50 to $140).
- Q: How do I keep my pea gravel patio clean?
A: Rake it now and then to get rid of leaves and twigs. You might need to add some fresh gravel every few years.
- Q: How can I make my pea gravel pathway more stable?
A: Try putting crushed stone or landscape fabric underneath. Adding a border can also help keep the gravel in place.
Final Thoughts: Is Pea Gravel Right for You?
Pea gravel is a great choice for many outdoor projects. It looks natural, stops weeds, and prevents erosion. Plus, it’s usually pretty affordable!
Remember, the average cost to install pea gravel is about $335. But your cost could be different depending on your project size, where you live, and what kind of gravel you choose.
If you’re ready to get started, why not reach out to a local landscaping company? They can give you a quote for your specific project and help you choose the best type of pea gravel for your needs.
Pea gravel might be small, but it can make a big difference in your outdoor space. Happy landscaping!
