Similar to other aggregates, washed stone is crushed and filtered before being sold. It also goes through an additional manufacturing step that gives the pieces a smooth appearance. As a result, the stones are slightly shiny and don’t stick together. Here’s what to know about this product to use it for your decorative landscaping projects.

What Are Some Common Applications for Washed Stone?

Washed stone is available in numerous sizes. Rocks that are 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch in size are often used as alternatives to traditional paving materials, such as concrete and asphalt. Available in several colors, they add texture to driveways and paths to create beautiful additions to your landscape. Washed stone can also be embedded in newly poured concrete to create mosaic effects on your patio, outdoor stairs, and hardscapes.

Washed stone is durable and won’t deteriorate when exposed to moisture, so it’s frequently used to backfill French drains. Their smooth surfaces improve water flow to prevent moisture from pooling.

Washed stone can be used as a permanent alternative to mulch, too. These rocks are placed on landscaping cloths during installation, so they suppress weed growth. They also don’t blow away in the wind, reducing the risk of soil erosion.

How Much Washed Stone Should You Buy?

To determine how much to buy, measure the length and width of the project area in yards. Multiply these two values to determine the site area in square yards. For example, a space that’s five yards by four yards has an area of 20 square yards.

Next, measure the depth of the excavation project in yards and multiple it by the surface area you just calculated. The result is the volume of washed stone (in cubic yards) that you need for the project. Your supplier will request this number when you place the order.

For a wide selection of washed stone, contact the crew at Syracusa Sand & Gravel in Victor, NY. This provider of state-approved aggregates has carried high-quality materials for construction and landscaping projects for over seven decades. Serving contractors and homeowners in the Ontario County area, their knowledgeable and friendly staff will help you find the right products for your project. See material specifications online, and call (585) 924-7146 to place an order.