Gravel in Philadelphia, PA

Typical local price ranges vary by material, volume, delivery distance, and supplier. Recent typical estimates for Philadelphia (delivered) are: - Stone dust/screenings: $20 - $40 per cubic yard ($14 - $30 per ton). - Crushed stone / #57: $35 - $65 per cubic yard ($25 - $47 per ton). - Pea gravel (decorative): $40 - $80 per cubic yard ($29 - $57 per ton). - Washed drainage stone / clean stone: $50 - $90 per cubic yard ($36 - $65 per ton). Use these as estimates only - check Hello Gravel supplier listings for exact per-ton and per-cubic-yard prices and any delivery charges.

Calculate volume then convert: - Cubic yards = (length ft x width ft x depth ft) / 27. If depth is in inches: Cubic yards = (length ft x width ft x depth in) / 324. - Tons = cubic yards x material weight (tons per cubic yard). Typical weight range for common gravel is 1.3 - 1.6 tons per cubic yard; many suppliers use about 1.4 tons/yd3 as a rule of thumb. Tip - order extra for compaction and waste: 5% - 10% for tight projects, 10% - 15% for landscaping with irregular grades.

Recommended builds: - Base layer: 3/4" crushed stone or #2 stone for structural base (4" - 8" depending on traffic). - Intermediate layer: 3/8" - 1/2" crushed stone (crusher-run) helps lock the base together. - Surface/top layer: 3/8" to 1/2" crushed stone or stone screenings for a compacted driving surface; pea gravel can be used for low-traffic decorative drives but does not compact well. For heavier loads or commercial use, increase base depth and use coarser aggregate (#3 or #2) below a compacted finer topcoat.

Choices depend on appearance and performance: - Patios/walkways - fine crushed stone or stone dust with pavers: stone dust or 1/4" minus for a stable bedding layer under pavers; 3/8" pea gravel for informal patios but expect movement and limited compaction. - Decorative surfaces - pea gravel (smooth rounded) or 3/8" crushed for a more angular, stable finish. - For areas with freeze/thaw: use well-draining, angular crushed stone and install proper edging to limit spreading.

Use clean, washed stone (no fines) to maintain drainage: - Typical choice: 3/4" washed stone or 1" - 2" clear stone depending on pipe size and flow. - #57 stone (3/4") is common for French drains and perimeter drains. - Avoid pea gravel for drainage structures - rounded stones can shift and compact less predictably around pipes. Washed stone reduces clogging and keeps flows open.

- Washed gravel: lower fines - better for drainage and exposed finishes; typically costs more because of processing. - Unwashed (with fines): cheaper, better for compacted base layers where fines help lock material. - Crushed stone (angular): interlocks and compacts well - preferred for structural bases and driveways. - Rounded/river/pea gravel: smoother and more decorative - poorer compaction and less stability for load-bearing surfaces. The choice affects price, drainage, compaction, and maintenance.

Order a buffer to account for compaction and waste: - For precise, measured jobs (paver base, contractor installation) order 5% - 10% extra. - For landscaping or irregular areas, order 10% - 15% extra to cover sloping, screening, and loss. If you expect significant settling or heavy compaction, err toward the higher end.

Typical local practices: - Minimums: many haulers have a minimum delivery around 1 - 3 cubic yards; some require a full truckload (3 - 8 yd3) for low-density routes. - Delivery fees: smaller orders may incur a delivery charge or fuel surcharge; larger orders often include delivery within a service area. - Lead times: 1 - 7 business days commonly; same-day or next-day possible when inventory and schedule allow. Seasonal peaks (spring/fall) can extend lead times. Always confirm specific minimums, fees, and timing on Hello Gravel supplier pages before ordering.

Yes - check local rules: - City: curbside blocking, sidewalk obstruction, or street use for delivery may require a permit from the City of Philadelphia or coordination with the streets department for large deliveries. - HOA: many HOAs restrict materials stored in driveways or public view or limit delivery truck access - check your HOA covenants. - Private roads: weight restrictions may apply; you may be responsible for damage. Before ordering, check local ordinances and HOA rules and tell your supplier about planned street parking or blocking so they can advise on permits.

Provide clear details and photos: - Driveway width and turnaround - gate widths and overhead clearance (aim for at least 12 ft width and 14 ft vertical clearance for standard dump trucks). - Surface type and weight limits for private roads or driveways. - Location where the material should be dumped and any areas to avoid (gardens, septic tanks, utilities). - Any permit or curb blocking requirements. Photos and GPS pin greatly speed quoting and prevent onsite surprises.

Many local suppliers focus on delivery, but some partners or subcontractors offer installation for an additional fee: - Services offered: spreading, raking, light compaction, and machine work (skid steer, small excavator, plate compactor). - Equipment/access needs: space for the machine to work, solid ground for equipment travel, reasonable wedge-in/out distance for dump trucks, and overhead clearance. - If equipment cannot reach the drop point, expect handwork charges or smaller vehicle options. Ask suppliers for quotes that include installation and confirm access requirements.

Policies vary - typical terms include: - Short deliveries: report shortages within 24 hours; suppliers will investigate and often deliver missing material promptly if notified. - Excess material: many suppliers will take back small excess quantities but may charge a pickup/restocking fee; some give a partial refund or credit. - Returns/refunds: opened or custom orders are often nonreturnable; small sample returns may be accepted. Always confirm the supplier's return and pickup policies before placing large orders and document quantities at delivery.

Yes, many suppliers offer samples and site visits: - Samples: small sample bags or bins are often free or low cost; larger samples may be charged but credited to your order when you buy in volume. - Site visits: free for large commercial bids or when a significant order is expected; some suppliers charge an inspection fee for small jobs, which is usually credited if you proceed. Ask your Hello Gravel supplier about sample availability and whether a site visit will be complimentary for your project size.

Yes - seasonal factors matter: - Winter: freezing, ice, and snow can limit deliveries, reduce site access, or halt installations; unplowed streets may block trucks. - Rain/saturated ground: soft sites may not support heavy trucks - haulers may refuse access or add equipment fees to protect properties. - Peak seasons (spring/summer/fall landscaping windows) bring higher demand and longer lead times. Schedule ahead in high season and allow flexibility for weather-related delays.

For engineered work, use specifications and testing: - Base/subbase: use well-graded crushed stone with known gradation and compaction characteristics - e.g., 3/4" crushed stone or specified MDOT/ASTM gradations. - Drainage layers: use clean, washed stone with no fines - #57 or 3/4" - 1" clear stone. - Pavement/structural design: provide project plans to suppliers or contractors; they can recommend material meeting local DOT or municipal specs. For commercial or municipal projects, ask suppliers for gradation charts, sieve analyses, and test reports before ordering.

Provide these details up front: - Exact material type (washed, unwashed, crushed, pea gravel, #57, screenings, etc.) and preferred size/gradation. - Quantity (cubic yards or tons) and whether you want a single delivery or staged deliveries. - Delivery address, photos of access, driveway width, gate and overhead clearance, and any private-road weight limits. - Desired delivery window and whether you need installation (spreading/compaction). With this info suppliers can give accurate pricing, confirm permits, and flag access issues.