What Homeowners Should Know Before Installing A Pea Gravel Patio

Upgrading your patio may sound like a professional, or at least a labor-intensive project, but it doesn't have to be. In fact, choosing one of the smallest, affordable materials on the market is an easy do-it-yourself project that also transforms any kind of outdoor space. Pea gravel, which is exactly what it sounds like with pea-sized pieces of rock, can be used in a variety of designs and colors so you can pick the perfect pea gravel color for your landscaping. Opting for this type of patio is popular among DIYers, but popularity and ease don't automatically make pea gravel the right choice for everyone. Before installing it, homeowners should know the range in costs and maintenance required to keep it looking nice. 

Pea gravel is the perfect way to solve many landscaping needs on a budget and is readily available at home improvement and landscaping stores, where you can find the best deals on pea gravel. It's sold by the ton, cubic foot, or cubic yard, depending on the size of your space. Costs range from $25 to $67 per cubic yard with an average rate of $46 per cubic yard, but it's important to note that pea gravel in a unique color or shape can cost up to $50 more per ton. You can expect to spend about $100 to $300 on gravel for an average 200-square-foot patio. These prices are typically affordable for most, but it's certainly a far-reaching range. 

One of the most talked about drawbacks of a pea gravel patio is how it shifts around freely. Because the gravel can easily be pushed out of the border, it's key to keep extra rock on hand and refill the patio as needed. Also, making sure your installed border is at least ½ inch taller than your patio will help it stay better contained. If you're trying to build an outdoor entertainment area, pea gravel may not be a good base for lightweight patio furniture and other fixtures, so consider doing some testing before you fully pursue your patio dreams. 

Pea gravel patios drain easily and hold up during the winter better than other materials. There's no need to worry about cracking from freezing — or thawing — and it's not affected by frost heave, either. However, weeds, dirt, and other debris can get into the space. Often, regular care with a rake and leaf blower is all that's needed to clean and maintain pea gravel to keep it looking good as new. For those wanting a more permanent solution, adding mulch glue or other kind of epoxy product can do the trick.