What type of gravel is best for New Brunswick landscaping projects?

Three-quarter-inch crusher run gravel (also called Granular A) is the best all-purpose base gravel for New Brunswick landscaping projects, providing the structural stability, drainage, and frost resistance needed in Maritime conditions. For decorative surface applications, 3/8-inch to 3/4-inch washed river rock or pea gravel offers an attractive, natural appearance. The right gravel depends entirely on whether you need structural support or visual appeal — and in NB's freeze-thaw climate, getting the base layer right is critical.

Crusher run is the foundation of nearly every hardscape project in NB — patios, walkways, retaining wall bases, and driveway sub-bases all require this angular, compactable material. Its crushed edges interlock under compaction to form a solid, stable base that resists frost heaving better than round-stone alternatives. For patio and walkway bases in New Brunswick, install 6-8 inches of crusher run in 2-3 inch lifts, compacting each lift with a plate tamper. In areas with poor drainage like Fredericton's clay soils, increase to 10-12 inches. Crusher run costs $15-25 per cubic yard at NB quarries and aggregate suppliers, making it one of the most affordable landscaping materials available.

For decorative gravel surfaces — garden paths, dry creek beds, around garden beds, and landscape accents — washed pea gravel (3/8-inch round stone) and river rock (3/4-inch to 2-inch smooth stone) are the most popular NB choices. Pea gravel costs $30-50 per cubic yard and creates a clean, uniform surface, though it shifts underfoot and requires edging to contain it. River rock at $40-70 per yard provides a more natural Maritime look, especially in earth tones that complement NB's landscape. For paths that receive regular foot traffic, 3/8-inch crushed stone (angular, not round) packs down firmer than pea gravel while still looking attractive.

Clear gravel (washed 3/4-inch stone with no fines) is essential for drainage applications in New Brunswick, including French drain trenches, weeping tile surrounds, and dry well fills. The absence of fine particles means water flows freely through it without clogging, which is critical for NB properties dealing with spring thaw drainage. Never substitute crusher run for clear gravel in drainage applications — the fine particles in crusher run compact into a semi-impermeable mass that defeats the purpose.

Calculate your gravel needs based on depth and area. One cubic yard of gravel covers approximately 100 square feet at 3 inches deep or 65 square feet at 4.5 inches deep. For a 200-square-foot patio base at 8 inches of crusher run, you need approximately 5 cubic yards. Most NB suppliers offer delivery for $50-100 per load, with discounts for larger orders. Order 10% extra to account for compaction loss and uneven subgrade — you can always use leftover gravel, but running short mid-project means an additional delivery charge.

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