Crushed Concrete in Toledo, OH

Crushed concrete is recycled concrete broken down into aggregate - a mix of crushed stone, sand, and fines. In Toledo it is commonly used for driveway bases, parking pads, walkways, and as fill. When properly compacted it makes a strong, inexpensive base that handles freeze-thaw cycles better than loose stone - but it is less decorative than quarried stone.

Use this quick formula: coverage (sq ft) = 27 (cubic feet in a yard) divided by depth (in feet). Example: 1 cubic yard at 4 inches (0.333 ft) covers about 81 sq ft. Tons convert to cubic yards depending on density - crushed concrete typically ranges from about 2,200 to 3,000 lb per cubic yard, so 1 ton is roughly 0.67 to 0.91 cubic yards. A practical rule: 1 ton will usually cover about 50-100 sq ft at a 2-4 inch depth depending on compaction and particle size. For accurate estimates, calculate required cubic yards first then convert to tons using your supplier's weight-per-yard.

Common local dump truck sizes: small pickup trucks - 1 to 3 cubic yards; contractor dump trucks - 8 to 14 cubic yards; large trucks - 15+ cubic yards. Price depends on truck size and material rate. Example pricing for Toledo (estimates): if crushed concrete is $20-$40 per cubic yard, a 10-yd load could cost $200-$400 plus delivery. If priced by ton, multiply tons per load by the per-ton rate. Always confirm truck capacity and delivery fees with Hello Gravel or the supplier for an exact quote.

Generally yes - crushed concrete is often less expensive than virgin crushed stone because it is recycled material. Typical local pricing is lower, but exact savings depend on supplier, particle size, delivery distance, and demand. For small decorative projects you may still prefer quarried stone for appearance; for bases and utilitarian uses crushed concrete is usually the cheaper option.

Crushed concrete can be used as both a compacted base and, in many cases, as a wearing surface if it contains fines that bind and it is well compacted. A common approach in Toledo is to use crushed concrete as a compacted base (6-12 inches) and top with a finer crushed aggregate or 3/4" minus for a smoother driving surface. For a long-lasting, low-maintenance driveway consider a compacted crushed-concrete base with a 1-2 inch wearing layer or a pavement surface over it.

For driveway bases use a 'minus' mix - for example 1 1/4" minus or 3/4" minus - this means the material contains larger pieces plus fines so it compacts well. A compactible mix with fines (sometimes called 411 recycled aggregate) provides a stable base. For the top wearing surface you may choose a smaller aggregate (3/8" to 3/4") depending on how smooth you want it.

Weeds can grow through any aggregate if there is soil and seeds present. Proper preparation prevents most growth: remove topsoil and vegetation, lay a geotextile fabric if needed, install a compacted aggregate base, and maintain a clean edge/trim. Periodic maintenance - hand pulling, weed fabric replacement, or selective herbicide - may still be required over many years.

Main disadvantages: it is less visually appealing than decorative stone, particle edges can be sharp, the material may contain fines that create dust, and recycled concrete can have variable composition. In northern Ohio freeze-thaw cycles can cause some settling or movement if not properly compacted and drained. Also, there is a slight possibility of higher pH or trace contaminants in recycled material - choose a reputable supplier and avoid using it where contaminant concerns exist (like vegetable gardens).

Yes - always order extra to allow for compaction, irregular grading, and waste. A common recommendation is to add 5-10% extra for well-measured projects and 10-15% for larger or irregular areas. If you plan to compact the material heavily, expect some reduction in finished volume and add accordingly.

Costs vary by driveway width, depth, and whether installation is DIY or contractor. Example estimate: a 100 ft long x 10 ft wide driveway = 1,000 sq ft. At 4" depth you need about 12.3 cubic yards. If crushed concrete is $25/yd delivered, material cost ~ $310. Add compaction, labor, grading, and any top layer - contractor-installed costs can range from $800 to $3,000 depending on site prep and local labor rates. Use Hello Gravel to get exact delivered material pricing and local contractors for installation quotes.

Buy bulk by the cubic yard with delivery rather than bags. Consolidate orders to a single delivery to avoid multiple trip fees, compare local suppliers through Hello Gravel, and pick a standard recycled mix rather than specialty blends. If you have pickup available, you can save on delivery by hauling your own load, but factor in truck rental and time.

Crushed concrete is a recycled material and is generally environmentally beneficial by reducing landfill use. Check local ordinances if you plan to use large volumes near waterways or in areas requiring stormwater controls. For sites where soil testing or contamination is a concern (for example, former industrial lots), verify the source and testing of the recycled material before use.

Yes - crushed concrete can be mixed with sand or stone to adjust drainage and compaction properties. Use geotextile fabric when installing over poor soils (clay) or where you want to reduce mixing of base material with underlying soils. In Toledo's clay-prone spots, fabric plus a stable base helps prevent rutting and reduces maintenance.

Measure your area (length x width x desired depth), calculate cubic yards using the formula: cubic yards = (sq ft x depth in feet) / 27, then use Hello Gravel's site to select crushed concrete and request a delivery quote. Include special access instructions, any required permits, and whether you need a specific truck size. Hello Gravel can provide delivered pricing, local supplier options, and recommended yards to order for your project.