The Best Gravel For A Gorgeous Outdoor Patio (That's Durable And Will Last For Years)

When it comes to designing an outdoor living space, homeowners have plenty of choices to consider. Will the area serve as a place for outdoor dining, a cozy gathering spot, or even a peaceful, Zen-like retreat? Another key decision is what material to use — pavers, cement, or gravel. There are many stunning gravel patio ideas that will give your yard a whole new look, but before jumping in, it's important to ask: What type of gravel works best? If you want a gorgeous patio that is durable, comfortable, and will last for years, the best choice is either crushed stone or decomposed granite.

Gravel patios are a great budget-friendly option and the quickest way to add charm to an outdoor gathering area without the frustration of pouring concrete or the expense of stone pavers. And they make a great foundation for an outdoor fire pit. But don't just run out and grab a bunch of bags of pea gravel. There are some important things you should know before installing a pea gravel patio. While it looks pretty, it's not the best option for the longevity of your patio. Because pea gravel stones are smooth and round, they don't lock in place like crushed stone or decomposed granite and that means an unstable surface. Your furniture will constantly wobble, and it can actually be dangerous to walk on. Not to mention that this type of gravel scatters and shifts and has a higher chance of growing weeds, which makes it extremely high-maintenance. In the long run your better choice is definitely crushed stone or decomposed granite.

With a little cleverness and some knowledge, you can easily transform your patio into a cozy outdoor living room. And with the right gravel, it can be a budget-friendly and long-lasting design. Crushed stone is a popular choice that has a ton of benefits with minimal drawbacks. Because of the angular nature of the stone, it is more likely to stay in place, provide a stable foundation for furniture and walking, and is more resistant to weeds. It also is great for locations that see a lot of hard rain in a short period of time due to its ability to drain water well. You can also add a binder to this stone to lock it in place and create a durable and long-lasting patio to enjoy for years to come.

Another option for a durable and long-lasting gravel patio stone is decomposed granite. It is basically granite that has been crushed very fine — the perfect decorative mid-point between dirt and gravel. It's great if you're looking for a more natural, Zen-like aesthetic. It works well for bare feet and doesn't cause issues with your furniture like pea gravel. You can add stabilizers to this gravel to ensure its longevity and durability. It is a great choice if you want your patio to blend in with your landscaping. And it comes in a variety of earthy tones to suit your tastes. The one major drawback with this gravel choice is that water doesn't drain through it very well, so it's probably not the best choice if you live in an area prone to heavy rainfall.