Gravel in Arlington, WA

In Arlington (Snohomish County), delivered gravel for residential projects commonly ranges from about $30 to $70 per ton depending on type (pea gravel, crushed rock, base), season, and haul distance. Per cubic yard (roughly 1.3–1.5 tons) expect roughly $40 to $100 per yard delivered. Hello Gravel has a 3-ton minimum order and may offer free or reduced delivery fees in many areas; request a local quote for an exact price.

Common local types include crushed rock (3/4u0022 and crusher run), pea gravel, and river rock; regional mixes reflect local geology so color and shape vary. For driveways, 3/4u0022 crushed stone or crusher run is usually best because it compacts well; pea gravel works for walkways and decorative areas but can shift under vehicle traffic. Ask for local samples when ordering since PNW materials vary and performance depends on compaction and base preparation.

Arlington’s wet winters increase the risk of rutting, erosion, and washouts if drainage and base are inadequate; freeze-thaw is less extreme than inland cold climates but still can move fines and create potholes. Proper base, slope, and drainage channels are essential to shed water and preserve a gravel surface. Plan for good grading and add material or regrade after heavy winter seasons.

Use these quick figures per square foot: 2u0022 depth = about 0.0086 tons/sq ft, 3u0022 = 0.0130 tons/sq ft, 4u0022 = 0.0173 tons/sq ft. For easier estimating: per 100 sq ft you would need roughly 0.86 tons (2u0022), 1.30 tons (3u0022), or 1.73 tons (4u0022). Always round up 5-10% for compaction, waste, and grading.

Hello Gravel requires a 3-ton minimum order, which aligns with many local suppliers and haulers serving Snohomish County. Local suppliers include regional quarries and landscape yards around Arlington and Everett; Hello Gravel connects you with vetted local vendors and contracted dump truck fleets to handle delivery and offload. If you need less than the minimum, ask about bulk pickup or splitting a larger order with a neighbor.

Permit needs depend on scope: simple resurfacing on a private driveway usually does not need a city permit, but creating a new driveway, changing curb cuts, or altering stormwater flow often requires a permit from the City of Arlington or Snohomish County. HOA or neighborhood covenants may restrict surface materials or appearance, so check your HOA rules before installing. Contact local planning or public works to confirm requirements for your address.

A professionally installed crushed gravel driveway with base preparation and compaction in Arlington typically ranges about $2.50 to $6.50 per sq ft, depending on excavation, base depth, drainage work, and haul distance. For a typical two-car driveway (about 600–800 sq ft) expect a ballpark of $1,500 to $5,000. Ask for itemized quotes since costs vary with site prep, material type, and contractor rates.

Plan to regrade and compact a driveway at least once a year and add a topping of gravel every 2–5 years depending on traffic and drainage. Annual maintenance tasks like weed control and minor grading are often $50 to $300 for homeowners, while adding a ton of gravel (to top up ruts) runs $30 to $70 delivered in this area. Larger repairs or repeated fill-ins will increase costs, so keeping drainage working well reduces long-term expenses.

Gravel has the lowest upfront cost and drains well in Arlington’s wet climate, but it requires more frequent maintenance and has a shorter service life than asphalt or concrete. Asphalt offers a smoother, mid-cost option with easier snow removal but can rut and needs periodic sealing; concrete costs more up front and lasts longest but can be prone to staining and cracking without proper base and drainage. Choose based on budget, desired look, maintenance willingness, and local drainage conditions.

Stabilized and resin-bound gravel systems are available in the Puget Sound area but are less common than loose gravel and usually require specialized installers. Expect a price premium of roughly 50% to 150% over loose gravel, depending on product and labor, but these surfaces reduce dust, migration, and maintenance and give a smoother finish. For driveways and high-traffic walkways consider getting local samples and multiple quotes to weigh upfront cost against lower upkeep.