Crushed Concrete in Columbus, OH

Crushed concrete is recycled concrete broken into various sizes and screened for use as aggregate. In Columbus it is popular because it typically costs less than virgin stone, provides excellent compaction and drainage when installed properly, and supports sustainable waste reduction by reusing demolition material.

Typical delivered pricing in Columbus (approximate ranges) - Per cubic yard: $20 - $40 - Per ton: $12 - $30 - Typical dump truck load (10 - 14 cubic yards): $200 - $600 Final prices depend on supplier, material grade, delivery distance, access difficulty, and seasonal demand. Always request an itemized quote from local suppliers.

Cost - crushed concrete is usually cheaper - often 10% - 40% less than new crushed stone. Performance - it compacts well and creates a stable base for driveways and patios; however, it may be more variable in particle shape and can contain fines. For high-end decorative surfaces a washed crushed stone may be preferred; for bases and subbases crushed concrete is a cost-effective choice.

Common recommendations - Base/subbase: 2" to 4" minus (mixed sizes with fines) compacted to 4"-8" thickness for structural support - Surface/top layer: 3/4" minus or 3/8" minus if you want a smoother wearing surface - Drainage layer: larger washed stone (1" to 1-1/2") is better where you need rapid drainage. Suppliers will list gradations - choose a material with fines for a strong, interlocking base and a cleaner, washed option for finished surfaces.

Estimates for a 100 ft long driveway - Single-car (about 10 ft wide) - 4" compacted depth: ~12.3 cubic yards - 6" compacted depth: ~18.5 cubic yards - Double-car (about 20 ft wide) - 4" compacted depth: ~24.7 cubic yards - 6" compacted depth: ~37.0 cubic yards Convert to tons using an approximate factor of 1.4 - 1.6 tons per cubic yard - Single-car: ~17 - 30 tons depending on depth - Double-car: ~35 - 60 tons depending on depth These are estimates - check exact dimensions and compaction factor for your project and order 5%-10% extra for compaction and waste.

In most Columbus residential neighborhoods crushed concrete is permitted for driveways and landscaping. However, some HOAs or specific local zoning rules may have surfacing or appearance requirements. Always confirm with the City of Columbus zoning/building office or your HOA before installation to ensure compliance.

Crushed concrete generally performs well when properly installed and compacted. Because Columbus experiences freeze-thaw cycles, proper drainage and compaction are critical to prevent heaving and rutting. Adding a slightly thicker base, ensuring subgrade drainage, and using a compacted surface layer will improve long-term durability.

Weeds can sprout in any aggregate that allows soil and seed to collect. Best practices - Install a geotextile fabric on unstable subgrades to reduce weed intrusion - Use a compacted base with few voids - Add a layer of clean top aggregate or a thin permeable weed barrier on top - Use targeted herbicide spot treatments or regular maintenance to remove seedlings. Good drainage and regular raking/compaction reduce places for soil to accumulate and seed to take hold.

Yes, many homeowners can do it themselves if they have experience and access to equipment. Typical steps and tools - Site prep: mark, excavate to desired depth, remove soft spots - Base preparation: level and compact subgrade - Equipment: skid steer or Bobcat for spreading, plate compactor or vibrating roller for compaction, rake and shovel - Installation: place in lifts (2-3"), compact each lift thoroughly - Experience tip: larger areas and deeper bases are easier with a compacting roller; smaller projects can use a heavy plate compactor. If you are unsure, hire a local contractor for quality and warranty.

Potential concerns - Contaminants: recycled concrete can contain small amounts of paint, grout, wood, or rebar; reputable suppliers screen material to remove large contaminants - Leaching: typical crushed concrete is not a major leaching risk for driveways, but avoid using recycled fines near drinking water intakes or sensitive wetlands without testing - Alkali or sulfate issues are uncommon for exterior aggregate uses. Ask your supplier about material source and screening, and request a certificate of cleanliness if you have environmental concerns.

Delivery patterns - Minimum orders: many suppliers and haulers have small minimums of 1 - 3 cubic yards, while dump-truck deliveries often start at 10 - 12 cubic yards - Lead times: same-day delivery is sometimes available for small nearby orders but commonly next-business-day is typical - Access: suppliers may charge extra for difficult access, long drives, or tipping in a tight yard. Use Hello Gravel or call multiple local suppliers to compare lead times, delivery fees, and minimums.

Provide clear information - Exact delivery address and best drop spot - Access constraints: low-hanging wires, narrow drives, turning radius issues - Desired quantity in cubic yards and desired material gradation - Whether you need the material piled or spread - Time window and contact phone number - Note any HOA or city restrictions on truck access. A short site photo helps haulers quote accurately and avoid onsite surprises.

Maintenance tips - Regularly regrade ruts with a rake and add a small top-up of screened aggregate as needed - Recompact trouble spots with a plate compactor - Expect to add 1/2" - 1" of material every few years on high-use driveways depending on traffic and drainage - Keep drainage culverts and edges clear to prevent washout. Proper initial compaction delays maintenance needs.