Decomposed granite (DG) looks beautiful and drains well but on high-traffic paths, patios, or bocce courts, loose fines can migrate, dust can rise, and ruts can form. That’s where stabilizers come in. The right stabilizer binds DG particles so the surface stays firm, smooth, and low-maintenance while retaining a natural look.
This guide explains how stabilizers work, when to use them, and how to choose between the options offered at CalDG.com: DeGe™ Pathway Binder & Stabilizer, GraniteCrete™ Stabilizer, and TechniSoil™ G3 Pathway Stabilizer.
What does a stabilizer do?
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Binds fines so the surface compacts tightly and resists ruts and washouts.
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Reduces dust during dry seasons.
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Improves durability in moderate foot- and cart-traffic areas.
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Maintains permeability, allowing rain to pass through instead of pooling.
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Preserves the natural DG texture (more organic than concrete or pavers).
Use a stabilizer when you need a firmer, cleaner, longer-lasting DG surface for walkways, patios, courtyards, bocce courts, garden entries, and light-duty drive/parking (product-dependent).
The CalDG Stabilizer Lineup
DeGe™ Pathway Binder & Stabilizer
Type: Mix-in binder for DG fines
Best for: Pathways, patios, bocce court surfaces, decorative areas needing a clean, compact finish
Why people choose it: Balanced performance and value; natural look with good cohesion when properly compacted.
Use style: Blend with dry DG fines per the guidance on the product page, install in thin lifts, mist, and compact.
GraniteCrete™ Stabilizer
Type: Blend-in stabilizer designed to create a dense, cohesive surface
Best for: Residential and light commercial paths/patios where a very firm, uniform finish is desired
Why people choose it: Tight, consistent surface profile with a “finished” appearance that still reads as natural stone.
Use style: Combine with compatible DG, place in lifts, compact thoroughly, and follow recommended moist-curing.
TechniSoil™ G3 Pathway Stabilizer
Type: Liquid topical/till-in polymer stabilizer
Best for: Existing DG refreshes, dust control, and projects where a spray-applied solution is preferred
Why people choose it: Straightforward application and easy maintenance; ideal for tightening up a path without a full rebuild.
Use style: Place and compact DG, then apply G3 as directed (topical or light till-in), allow to cure.
⚠️ Coverage rates and exact mix ratios vary by product and project conditions. Always follow the instructions on each CalDG product page for the most accurate guidance.
How to choose the right stabilizer
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Traffic & Use
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Light to moderate foot traffic / carts: DeGe™ or GraniteCrete™
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Refresh or dust control on existing DG: TechniSoil™ G3
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Bocce courts: DeGe™ or GraniteCrete™ (use a true court blend for top performance)
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Finish Preference
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Tight, uniform, “installation-grade” finish: GraniteCrete™
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Natural yet firm, versatile look: DeGe™
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Minimal disruption / spray-on convenience: G3
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Build vs. Refresh
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New build with blend-in control: DeGe™ or GraniteCrete™
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Existing pathway tune-up: G3
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Maintenance Style
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Set-and-forget firmness: GraniteCrete™ (with proper install)
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Flexible upkeep / easy re-treatment: G3
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Balanced performance + value: DeGe™
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Installation essentials (applies to all stabilizers)
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Sub-base & grading:
Excavate, install a compacted, well-draining base (e.g., compacted aggregate). Grade for sheet drainage. -
Lift thickness:
Place DG in thin lifts (typically ~2″ before compaction). Over-thick lifts = soft spots. -
Moisture & compaction:
Lightly mist (don’t flood) and compact each lift with a plate compactor until firm and smooth. -
Edge restraint:
Use headers, steel edging, pavers, or concrete curbs to keep edges crisp and prevent migration. -
Cure time:
Respect curing windows before traffic. Early use can scar the surface.
Common mistakes to avoid
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Skipping the base: DG needs a compacted, draining foundation.
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Over-watering: Turns fines into slurry and weakens binders.
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Too thick, too fast: Lifts must be compacted incrementally.
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No edging: Leads to unraveling at the margins.
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Ignoring product-specific instructions: Ratios and cures differ—always follow the label.
Maintenance tips
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Seasonal refresh: Lightly mist and roll to re-tighten; add small top-offs of the same material if needed.
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Keep it clean: Blow off leaves and soil that can stain or hold moisture.
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Spot repairs: For scuffs or divots, rake, add matching fines, re-mist, and compact.
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Re-treat (if using G3): Reapply per product guidance to maintain surface performance.
FAQs
Will a stabilized DG surface still drain?
Yes. Properly installed stabilized DG remains permeable and helps reduce runoff.
Can I use stabilized DG on a driveway?
For light-duty driveways and parking, use the product’s driveway guidance or consider a resin-bound solution. Ask CalDG for a recommendation based on slope and traffic.
Will the color change after stabilizing?
DG typically appears slightly richer after misting and compaction; final appearance depends on product, mix ratio, and lighting.
Ready to choose a stabilizer?
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DeGe™ Pathway Binder & Stabilizer – dependable, natural look for paths, patios, and bocce.
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GraniteCrete™ Stabilizer – dense, uniform finish for a polished, long-lasting surface.
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TechniSoil™ G3 Pathway Stabilizer – convenient liquid treatment for new installs or refreshes.
If you’re unsure which option fits your project, contact CalDG with your site photos, dimensions, traffic level, and desired finish—we’ll recommend the right material, quantity, and delivery method.
