Products

Common Uses for Decomposed Granite

From backyard pathways to commercial driveways — see how DG works for every project type.

Decomposed Granite for Garden Pathways

DG compacts into firm, natural-looking walkways that blend with any landscape. Install at 2–3" depth with steel edging for a pathway that lasts years.

Decomposed Granite for Driveways

Stabilized DG creates durable, permeable driveways that resist tire rutting and rain erosion. Use 4"+ depth over compacted base rock.

Decomposed Granite for Patios

Create a permeable patio surface that drains naturally and stays cool underfoot. DG patios work beautifully around fire pits and seating areas.

Decomposed Granite for Xeriscaping

Replace water-hungry turf with DG ground cover for a drought-tolerant landscape. At 2" depth over fabric, DG suppresses weeds naturally.

Decomposed Granite for Dog Runs

DG provides excellent drainage and stays clean underfoot — making it one of the best surfaces for dog runs and pet areas.

Decomposed Granite for Bocce Courts

Build tournament-quality bocce courts using fine DG and oyster shell blends that compact smooth and roll true.

Decomposed Granite Buying Guide

Choose the right DG for your project, calculate coverage, and compare materials.

Decomposed granite (DG) is a naturally weathered granite that breaks down into fine, sand-like particles — creating one of the most versatile and cost-effective landscape materials available. It compacts into a firm, permeable surface for pathways, patios, driveways, and ground cover.

Browse our full decomposed granite collection, or use our coverage calculator to estimate how much material your project requires.

DG vs Other Materials

MaterialBest ForCompactionDrainageCost
Decomposed Granite Pathways, patios, ground cover, dog runs Excellent — locks firm Good — permeable $$
Stabilized DG Driveways, ADA paths, commercial Superior — resists erosion Moderate $$$
Pea Gravel Decorative beds, light paths Poor — doesn't lock Excellent $$
Crushed Granite Driveways, heavy-traffic base Very good — interlocks Good $$
Stabilized DG uses a binder mixed in before compaction. See our base rock products for structural foundations.

What Contractors Know

  • Depth matters: Use 2–3" for pathways and patios. Use 3–4" with stabilizer for driveways.
  • Always install landscape fabric underneath DG to prevent weed growth. Overlap seams by 6" minimum.
  • Edging is not optional. DG migrates without a hard border — steel edging keeps edges clean for years.
  • Order 5–10% extra to account for compaction loss. A 3" layer compacts down 15–20%.
  • Compact in lifts: Spread 1.5", wet, compact, then add next lift. Never dump full depth at once.
  • Color selection: DG comes in 50+ colors. Request samples before ordering bulk — color varies between quarries.

FAQ

At 3" deep, one ton covers ~80–100 sq ft. A 10×20 pathway needs ~2.6 tons. Use our coverage calculator for exact estimates.
Standard DG compacts firm but can erode. Stabilized DG has a binding agent that locks particles permanently — best for driveways and ADA paths.
Pathways/patios: 2–3" compacted. Driveways with stabilizer: 3–4". Ground cover: 2". Always compact in lifts.
For pathways on stable soil, DG goes directly over fabric. For driveways or clay soil, install 4" of base rock underneath.
Yes — bulk delivery available from our yards. Call (800) 215-7372 for scheduling and minimums.

Find the Right DG for Your Project

Browse 50+ decomposed granite colors available in bulk. Samples available. Delivery to your site or pickup from our yards.

Shop Decomposed Granite

Previously Viewed Materials

Explore the DG blends and landscaping materials you’ve recently viewed to continue building your perfect space.