Side by side
| Decomposed Granite | Pea Gravel | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight per cubic yard | 2,800 lb (1.40 t) | 2,600 lb (1.30 t) |
| Cubic yards per ton | 0.71 | 0.77 |
| Sq ft per ton at 3 in | 77 | 83 |
| Average price | $25–$50/ton, $38–$75/yd³ | $28–$45/ton, $29–$86/yd³ |
Weights and prices from the sources listed below.
Earthstone lists 2 to 3 inches of DG for paths and patios; Hello Gravel suggests 2 to 3 inches of pea gravel for light-traffic paths.
Working it out
Cubic yards = area × depth ÷ 324 (sq ft and inches). Tons = cubic yards × weight per cubic yard.
For 200 sq ft at 3 inches, both need 1.85 cubic yards: 2.59 tons of decomposed granite or 2.41 tons of pea gravel.
Common questions
Which is heavier, decomposed granite or pea gravel?
Decomposed Granite at about 1.40 tons per cubic yard, against 1.30.
Sources
- https://www.earthstonerock.com/pages/frequently-asked-questions
- https://hellogravel.com/guides/how-much-aggregate-do-i-need-for-a-garden-path/
- https://hellogravel.com/guides/2025-gravel-prices-per-ton-delivered-cost-calculator-and-regional-rates/
- https://homeguide.com/costs/gravel-prices