Decomposed Granite Calculator
— How Much Do You Need?

Decomposed granite, often called DG, is granite rock that has naturally broken down over time through weathering and erosion. The result is a mix of fine, gritty particles and small fragments that typically range from sand-sized fines up to about 3/8 of an inch. Because it forms through natural weathering rather than mechanical crushing, it has a softer, more earthy texture and a warm, natural appearance that crushed gravel simply does not replicate. The biggest practical difference between DG and standard crushed gravel is how it behaves underfoot and under a compactor. When you install DG at the right depth and compact it, the fine particles bind together and create a firm, stable surface with a smooth, almost packed-dirt feel. Crushed gravel, by contrast, tends to stay loose and shifts more freely. That compacting quality is a big part of why so many homeowners and landscapers choose DG for pathways, patios, and light-use driveways, especially when they want a natural, refined look rather than the rough texture of traditional gravel. If you are trying to decide whether DG is the right material for your project, the Hello Gravel team is glad to help you think it through.

Decomposed granite is one of the most versatile landscaping materials available, and it works beautifully in a wide range of residential and commercial projects. Garden pathways and walking trails are probably the most common use. DG creates a clean, natural-looking surface that holds up well under regular foot traffic and blends seamlessly into outdoor spaces. Many homeowners also use it for patio areas and outdoor seating spaces where they want a permeable, low-maintenance alternative to concrete or pavers. For driveways, stabilized DG is the right choice, natural loose DG will rut and wash out under vehicle traffic. Stabilized DG is treated with a polymer binder that compacts into a firmer surface capable of handling light vehicle use. It is also a popular choice for dog runs because it drains well, stays cooler than hard surfaces in warm weather, and is gentler on paws than crushed stone.In landscaping, DG works well as a ground cover and mulch alternative around trees, shrubs, and garden beds. It suppresses weeds when installed correctly, retains some moisture, and gives planting areas a neat, finished appearance. It is a cornerstone material in xeriscaping and drought-tolerant garden design, which is why you see it used so widely across the Southwest and in water-conscious landscapes nationwide. Other popular applications include fire pit surrounds, playground buffer zones, and decorative areas around water features. If you are not sure whether DG fits your specific project, reach out to the Hello Gravel team and we will help you find the right material.

The amount of DG you need depends directly on two things: the square footage of your project and how deep you plan to install it. Getting the depth right matters both for coverage planning and for the performance of the finished surface, so it is worth thinking through before you order. For garden beds, decorative ground cover, and very light foot traffic areas, 2 inches of compacted DG is a common starting point. At that depth, one ton of decomposed granite covers roughly 100 to 120 square feet. Keep in mind that DG is a denser material than it might look, so a little goes a long way in decorative applications. For pedestrian pathways and walking trails that see regular use, 3 inches of compacted depth is a more reliable standard. At 3 inches, one ton covers approximately 70 to 80 square feet. This depth gives you enough material to compact firmly and still have a stable surface after the initial settling period. For driveways or areas where vehicles will park or turn, you want to go deeper. At 4 inches of compacted depth, one ton covers roughly 50 to 60 square feet. The extra depth supports more weight and reduces the chance of ruts or washouts over time. These figures are useful starting points, but your actual coverage will vary based on the specific DG material, your soil conditions, and how aggressively you compact. For a more precise estimate tailored to your exact dimensions, use the Hello Gravel calculator on the product page. It takes the guesswork out of figuring out how many tons to order so you are not left short or paying for more than you need.

Natural, or loose, decomposed granite is DG in its most basic form with no added binders or treatments. It compacts reasonably well on its own, but over time it can shift, scatter with heavy foot traffic, and erode in areas exposed to moving water or wind. Natural DG is a great choice for garden beds, decorative ground cover, low-traffic pathways, and xeriscaping where aesthetics are the priority and the area will not be subjected to heavy, repeated use. Stabilized decomposed granite is natural DG that has been treated with a polymer resin or similar binding agent. The stabilizer helps the particles lock together more tightly when compacted, creating a firmer, more durable surface that holds up better under regular foot traffic and light vehicle use. It resists displacement and erosion more effectively than natural DG, which makes it a popular choice for driveways, high-traffic walkways, and pathways that need to maintain a clean edge over time. A simple way to think about it: if your project is primarily decorative or sees only occasional use, natural DG is usually sufficient and more cost-effective. If you want a surface that performs more like a packed road base while still looking like natural granite, stabilized DG is worth the investment. To confirm which grades and types are currently available for your area, check the Hello Gravel product page or contact our team directly. We can point you toward the right material for your specific situation.

Decomposed granite is a permeable material, meaning water moves through it rather than pooling on the surface. This makes it a strong choice for areas where drainage matters, such as around tree roots, in rain gardens, or in sloped landscapes where runoff could otherwise cause erosion. That said, DG's performance in wet conditions depends on how it is installed and whether the climate sees significant rainfall or sustained moisture. In dry and semi-arid regions like the Southwest and California, DG is an extremely reliable surface material and has been used for decades in those environments. In wetter climates, natural loose DG can shift, rut, or wash away if it is not properly contained and maintained. Stabilized DG handles wetter conditions better than natural DG because the binding agent helps the particles resist displacement. If you live in a region with frequent heavy rain and still want to use DG, stabilized DG combined with proper edging and a well-graded subbase is your best path forward. One important note: avoid installing DG over compacted clay soils without a gravel base layer underneath if drainage is a concern. Clay holds water and can cause DG to become muddy or unstable after heavy rain. A base layer of crushed stone or compacted base gravel beneath the DG helps water move away from the surface more effectively. If you are working in a high-rainfall area and are not sure which approach makes sense, the Hello Gravel team can help you think through the right material combination for your region.