Decomposed Granite Cost

Last Updated on December 27, 2023
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Decomposed granite is often used in driveways, gardens, trails, and urban parks. It’s a type of rock that has aged and then fragmented into smaller pieces or small chunks of material. Crushed decomposed granite can be found all over the world as pavement for roads or building materials but don’t confuse it with normal granite, because decomposed granite will feature sharp edges and shapes. This type of material is perfect when creating garden spaces.

The price of decomposed granite is not set in stone. The quality, size, and place where you buy it from, all come into play when you’re deciding how much to invest for this type of rock.

How much does decomposed granite cost?

Usually, you should expect decomposed granite, that is around one inch in depth, to cost somewhere around $1 to $4 per square foot, or anywhere from $3 to $8 per cubic yard. You should expect to have distribution and delivery included in this price, but the actual installation will be charged separately. Most of the time you will find that the most affordable and common decomposed granite will be the gray one. However, this type of rock can be found in around 30 different color shades.

If you hire professionals for your landscaping, the cost will be variable depending on what they need to do. For example, it may range from $55-$80 per hour just to lay decomposed granite stones down, so make sure you account for this when budgeting and plan accordingly if paying hourly. Alternatively, you should be prepared to spend at least $5 per foot this is the preferred way of getting paid by the contractor.

You might also like our articles about the cost of gravel, class 5 gravel, or crushed concrete.

According to some websites, you would spend about $100 to $300 for materials alone for the average 400 square foot driveway. However, if you live in an area prone to a lot of rain like I do then this material is not recommended because it can be washed away.

Types of decomposed granite

Natural

Natural decomposed granite is a versatile material that can be used for mulching around your plants and trees. It provides essential nutrients to the soil, lasting much longer than traditional mulch materials.

Stabilized

You can usually add stabilized decomposed granite right on top of another gravel type and add it again after that to a loose layer.

Resin

The resin type will look just like asphalt but somewhat a little more natural.

Any additional expenses to consider?

If you are looking to purchase decomposed granite and have it delivered, most landscaping services will charge about $50-$75 for delivery, depending on how far they need to travel. Laying down a layer of landscaping fabric is recommended in order for the stones not to be overrun by weeds.

If you want to get the job done on your own, then be sure that you have a soil compactor, wheelbarrow, shovels, and rakes. Having to buy all of the above would increase the costs considerably.

Important things to consider

Decomposed granite is a versatile material that can be used in many different ways. It’s the perfect solution for walkways, driveways, and patios as it packs well to allow less water drainage through its system. Mulching with decomposed granite also helps to keep weeds at bay while providing nutrients back into the soil underneath your plants. You can even use it as an underlayment for a fire pit.

You should make sure you won’t install it too close to your house because it can easily stick to your shoes and it might end up scratching your floors.

Its advantages

It can be one of the most inexpensive options, as compared to other materials for walkways. It requires very little maintenance with occasional filling in between bare spots that may have washed away after a stronger rain.

If you are looking for something that will make your garden look great, while also keeping weeds at a minimum then this product is perfect. It comes in many colors which means there’s sure to be one that matches the color scheme of your home and it works as an excellent mulch or decoration material too.

Its disadvantages

The sharp edges on the stone make it dangerous to walk barefoot. The stones can wear down due to natural erosion and movements by wind, rain, or even snowfall in wintertime.

If you install it too close to your home, it can cause damage inside the house by scratching flooring when brought inside on your shoes. Cars driving over it can also leave marks or impressions on the surface that need to be raked again and again.

How can you save some money?

If you need bigger quantities for a bigger project, don’t be afraid to negotiate the final price. You can also check out multiple places selling this type of material, to find out where you can get it for the least amount of money.