Choosing the Best Base Materials Under Pea Gravel
Pea gravel makes an attractive, natural looking ground cover for gardens, pathways and decorative landscaping features. But pea gravel requires a properly prepared base to provide stability and extend the life of the surface. Selecting suitable materials to go under pea gravel is an important consideration.
What is Pea Gravel?
Pea gravel consists of small, smooth rock fragments typically 1/8” to 5/8” in size. It gets its nickname from the pea-shaped gravel pieces that form through natural tumbling. Available in a variety of neutral colors, pea gravel provides aesthetic appeal.
Why Proper Base Prep Matters
Pea gravel has a rounded shape, so the pieces shift against each other underfoot. Without an adequately stabilized base, pea gravel will grind down and sink into the soil. This causes several problems:
- Deformation from compaction and rutting under traffic
- Displacement as gravel migrates across the area over time
- Mixing of gravel and soil resulting in muddy conditions
- Growth of weeds up from the soil below
A suitable base layer provides crucial support to keep pea gravel contained, stable and looking fresh.
Recommended Base Materials
Here are suitable base options for pea gravel areas:
- Crushed Stone – A 1-2” layer of crushed gravel, limestone or granite screenings compacts firmly while allowing drainage. The angular rock pieces interlock for stability.
- Geotextile Fabric – Landscape fabric helps separate and contain the pea gravel layer. It blocks downward soil migration. Some kommen fabrics are lightweight, woven, non-woven, or fleece.
- Sand – A 1-2” sand base compacts into a semi-solid foundation for pea gravel. Concrete sand or bank run sand are good choices.
- Paver Base – This crushed stone mix provides ideal drainage and stability under brick and paver surfaces. It extends the life of pea gravel as well.
- Compacted Soil – Simply grading and tamping native soil can suffice for light duty pea gravel paths. But other bases are better for longevity.
Combining materials like gravel topped with fabric offers enhanced preparation. Just 2-4” of a suitable base lastingly supports pea gravel.
Base Installation Tips
Proper installation of the base ensures maximum effectiveness:
- Excavate soil 4-6” deep. Remove roots, debris and uneven areas.
- Compact subgrade thoroughly with a plate compactor.
- Level and slope base for drainage where needed.
- Maintain 1-2” depth of base material without thin spots.
- Tamp gravel, sand or other base in 1” lifts using a hand tamper.
- Overlap fabric sections with 6” overlap. Staple fabric edges in place.
- Moisten base. This allows natural compaction from pea gravel weight.
With base installation complete, spread pea gravel 2-3” deep. This retains the cushioned feel underfoot yet resists sinking and displacement. Refresh pea gravel periodically to maintain a pristine appearance.
Choosing the right supporting base for pea gravel improves durability and reduces maintenance. Contact us to discuss options for incorporating pea gravel with a stabilized base into your unique landscaping vision.
