Sand, Gravel, Crush n Run

Fine Sand (often called play or masonry sand)

Silky, evenly graded sand that sweeps and levels smoothly.

Best uses

• Filling joints between pavers and brick for a neat, finished look

• Masonry work (mortar, stucco) where a smooth texture is key

• Play areas and sandboxes (when washed)

• Light leveling touch-ups on top of a compacted base

Good to know: Fine sand is not meant to be a deep base—pair it with a compacted base layer (like crusher run) for lasting results.

Coarse Sand (concrete/traction sand)

Angular, gritty grains that interlock and drain well.

Best uses

• Leveling/screed layer beneath pavers and flagstone

• Mixing into concrete for strength and workability

• Pipe bedding and septic applications where drainage matters

• Winter traction on walks and drives

Good to know: Coarse sand makes a stable bedding layer; use it over a compacted base for patios and walkways that stay true.

Manufactured Sand/¼" Down (screenings, ¼" minus)

Crushed stone fines blended with small chips up to ¼", creating a tight, smooth finish.

Best uses

• Final screed layer under pavers for a crisp, even surface

• Paths and patio toppings that compact firm underfoot

• Flagstone joints for a tidy, locked-in look

• Base prep under artificial turf

Good to know: Compacts hard and smooth—great where you want a firm surface, less ideal where you need free‑flowing drainage.

Crusher Run (¾" minus, ABC/dense grade)

A well‑graded blend of crushed stone with fines that compacts like a dream.

Best uses

• Driveway and private road bases that stand up to traffic

• Sub‑base for patios, walkways, and slabs

• Retaining wall and step bases that need reliable support

• Setting fence posts and site prep

Good to know: Install in 2–3" lifts and compact thoroughly. For a polished finish, top with screenings or a clean gravel.

3/4" or #57 Grey Gravel (clean, angular stone)

About ¾" in size, washed and free of fines for excellent drainage.

Best uses

• French drains, curtain drains, and around foundations

• Driveway top layers where you want traction plus drainage

• Backfill for retaining walls and utility trenches

• Under decks and as a drainage layer beneath concrete

Good to know: Because it’s “clean,” #57 doesn’t lock up like crusher run. Use edging or confinement on slopes, and pair with a compacted base below driveways and patios.

3/8" or #8 Grey Gravel (clean, angular stone)

A refined, smaller stone—about 3/8"—for a smooth, finished look.

Best uses

• Walkways and garden paths that feel comfortable underfoot

• Pipe bedding and detailed drainage work

• Top dressing for flat driveway areas and parking pads

• Decorative accents, dry creek beds, and exposed‑aggregate concrete

Good to know: Its smaller profile stays neat with proper edging; a layer of landscape fabric beneath helps keep soil from migrating up.