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The Best Gravel Types for Vermont Driveways: Pros & Cons

Gravel driveways are a durable, affordable, and low-maintenance option for Vermont homeowners, but choosing the right type of gravel is key to ensuring long-term stability and proper drainage. With Vermont’s harsh winters, freeze-thaw cycles, and heavy rain, it’s important to select gravel that can withstand the elements. Below, we break down the best gravel types for Vermont driveways and their pros and cons to help you make the right choice.

1. Crushed Stone (#57 Gravel)

Crushed stone, often referred to as #57 gravel, is made from crushed rock, usually limestone, granite, or trap rock. It consists of pieces about ¾ inch in size with jagged edges that help them compact tightly.

✅ Pros:
✔ Excellent drainage, preventing water pooling
✔ Locks together well when compacted, creating a stable surface
✔ Widely available and affordable

❌ Cons:
✖ Can shift if not properly compacted
✖ May need occasional replenishing due to displacement

Best for: Driveway top layer or base layer (when compacted with fines)

2. Crusher Run (Dense Grade Aggregate – DGA)

Crusher run is a mix of crushed stone and stone dust, creating a dense, compactable material ideal for driveways. It’s one of the best choices for Vermont’s freeze-thaw cycles because it compacts well and resists shifting.

✅ Pros:
✔ Forms a firm, solid surface when compacted
✔ Provides excellent drainage while minimizing shifting
✔ Cost-effective and long-lasting

❌ Cons:
✖ Can be muddy when wet due to fine particles
✖ May require periodic regrading

Best for: Base layer for driveways, top layer for high-traffic areas

3. Pea Gravel

Pea gravel consists of small, rounded stones that come in various colors and sizes, typically ¼ to ½ inch. It provides an attractive and smooth surface but isn’t the best choice for high-traffic driveways.

✅ Pros:
✔ Visually appealing with a natural look
✔ Comfortable to walk on
✔ Drains well and doesn’t hold water

❌ Cons:
✖ Doesn’t compact well, leading to shifting and ruts
✖ Can get pushed around by vehicles
✖ Requires regular maintenance to keep in place

Best for: Walkways, decorative driveways, or low-traffic areas

4. ¾” Crushed Gravel with Fines

This mix contains ¾-inch crushed stone combined with stone dust (fines), which helps it bind together when compacted. It’s similar to crusher run but offers better drainage due to larger stone pieces.

✅ Pros:
✔ Packs well while allowing some water drainage
✔ Resists washouts and shifting
✔ Ideal for Vermont’s climate

❌ Cons:
✖ Can be dusty when dry
✖ Needs occasional regrading for best performance

Best for: Top layer for gravel driveways in Vermont

5. Bank Run Gravel (Natural Gravel Mix)

Bank run gravel is a naturally occurring mix of sand, silt, and stones found in riverbeds and gravel pits. While affordable, it’s not always the best choice for a long-lasting driveway surface.

✅ Pros:
✔ Cheap and widely available
✔ Contains a mix of materials that naturally compact well

❌ Cons:
✖ Can contain too much sand, leading to softness and erosion
✖ Drainage may be poor depending on the material mix

Best for: Temporary driveways, filling potholes, or base layers

What’s the Best Gravel Type for Vermont Driveways?

For most Vermont driveways, a combination of gravel types works best:
🔹 Base Layer: Crusher run or ¾” crushed gravel with fines for stability
🔹 Middle Layer (if needed): #57 crushed stone for additional drainage
🔹 Top Layer: Another layer of crusher run or ¾” crushed gravel for a smooth finish

If you’re in an area with heavy rain or steep slopes, using larger crushed stone as a base can help with erosion control and stability.

Need Help Choosing the Right Gravel for Your Driveway?

At Landis Excavation, we specialize in gravel driveway installation, repair, and maintenance in central Vermont. Whether you need a new driveway, regrading, or drainage improvements, we can help you select and install the best gravel for long-lasting results.

📞 Contact us today for a free estimate!