Gravel in Millbrae, CA

Common sizes available locally include pea gravel (about 1/8u0022 to 3/8u0022) for decorative areas, #57 (roughly 1/2u0022 to 1u0022) for driveways and drainage, and #3 (about 1u0022 to 2.5u0022) for heavy drainage and base layers. Decomposed granite (fine, compactable) is often used for paths and patios. Suppliers in the Bay Area may offer additional mixes and local names, so check product details when ordering.

#57 gravel is typically angular stone around 1/2u0022 to 1u0022, with the common size being about 3/4u0022. It is a good choice for driveways, walkways, and drainage trenches because it compacts reasonably well while allowing water to pass. For Millbrae’s mild coastal climate, #57 is a versatile, locally available option for many landscaping and driveway needs.

#3 gravel consists of larger stones, generally about 1u0022 to 2.5u0022 in diameter, so the texture is noticeably coarse and chunky. It is commonly used for major drainage lines, French drains, and as a base under large concrete slabs or roadways. Because of its size it does not compact into a smooth surface, so it is less common for finished walking areas.

One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet and will cover about 108 sq ft at a 3u0022 depth, about 162 sq ft at a 2u0022 depth, or about 54 sq ft at a 6u0022 depth. In weight, one cubic yard of typical crushed gravel in the Bay Area usually weighs around 1.3 to 1.5 tons, depending on stone type. Use these numbers to estimate how many yards or tons you need, or try Hello Gravel’s calculator for a site-specific estimate.

No, 2 inches is usually too thin for a driveway. For a stable vehicle surface most contractors recommend at least 3 to 4 inches of compacted gravel over a proper subbase, and 4 to 6 inches if the soil is soft or you expect heavy vehicles. Millbrae’s mild climate reduces freeze-thaw concerns, but proper depth and compaction are still important to prevent rutting and washouts.

Cost depends on driveway width, depth, gravel type, and delivery. For a single-car 20 ft long by 10 ft wide driveway (200 sq ft) at 3u0022 depth you need about 1.9 cubic yards (roughly 2.5 to 3 tons). Expect materials and delivery to typically run from a few hundred dollars up to $700 or more depending on material choice and access — request a quote from Hello Gravel for an accurate price for your address and material.

Bank-run rock or recycled crushed concrete are often the least expensive options locally because they use locally sourced or recycled material. Decorative options like colored or washed pea gravel and premium crushed stone cost more. Prices vary by local supply and truck access, so check Hello Gravel for current regional pricing.

For decorative yards and seating areas pea gravel or small washed gravel (1/8u0022 to 3/8u0022) offers a clean look and comfortable surface. For pathways and driveways choose crushed 3/4u0022 stone (#57) or compactable decomposed granite for a smoother, firmer finish. Consider Millbrae’s coastal weather and drainage needs when choosing: prefer materials that shed water and resist compaction where you expect foot or vehicle traffic.

Millbrae has a mild coastal climate with little freeze-thaw, so frost heave is rarely a concern, but coastal fog and salt exposure can affect some landscape plants and metal edging. Good drainage is still important because heavy winter rains can wash fine materials away and cause rutting. Choose angular crushed stone for stability, and consider edging, geotextile fabric, and proper slope to protect your gravel installation.

Order online or contact Hello Gravel to check zip code availability and get a quote. Our minimum order is 3 tons; deliveries are made by contracted dump trucks (typically tri-axle) with a standard lead time of 2+ business days and a next-day option for orders placed before noon CST. You can request tailgate spreading at checkout but drivers perform spreading at their discretion and Hello Gravel does not guarantee spreading services.

Contact Hello Gravel as soon as possible if you need to change or cancel an order. Changes are easier to accommodate before the supplier processes and dispatches the load, but modifications are not guaranteed after dispatch. If there is an issue on delivery, contact customer service and we will work to resolve it according to our policies.

Clear the drop zone of vehicles, low branches, and obstacles and mark any underground utilities or irrigation lines before the truck arrives. Ensure truck access from the street and designate the preferred dump location in your order notes; if placement is tight, consider flagging the spot for the driver. For smaller landscape areas, lay down a geotextile fabric and install edging to keep material contained after delivery.