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The Best Stone For a Driveway

We are often asked “What is the best gravel for my driveway” and the truth is, there isn’t one simple answer. Different types of stone perform better in different situations. Typically, Our recommendation Is ABC stone to Establish a base and use on hills or sloped driveways, And Washed stone or #57 stone for a clean dust free finish. There are also some decorative options available however the cost will increase over a typical granite or shale rock. The Below article explains how to choose the correct Gravel for your Driveway.

Driveway Grading & Erosion

Customers in our area often ask “What Is the Best Stone for a Driveway?” The answer depends on many factors that we will discuss in the following article.

Driveways take a beating. Between heavy rain, constant traffic, and the weight of vehicles, the type of stone you choose for grading makes all the difference. In Concord NC, we see everything from driveways washed out by storms to gravel surfaces that just won’t hold up. The big question homeowners ask us is simple: what is the best stone for a driveway?

The truth is, there isn’t one single answer. Different stones work better in different situations. Let’s break it down.

Crushed Stone (ABC Stone) – The Solid Base

One of the most common materials we use is Crushed Stone, also called ABC Stone or Crusher Run

  • Creates a strong, compacted base that locks together under pressure. Will not allow water to permeate the surface and create soft spots.
  • Works especially well on hills or sloped driveways where erosion can wash out looser gravel.
  • Helps fight off ruts, potholes, and washouts after heavy rains.

If your property has elevation changes or you’ve dealt with water washing your driveway away, ABC stone is usually the go-to choice.

Washed Stone – 57 & 67 Stone

For flat driveways, Washed Stone (often called 57 stone or 67 stone) is a Great option to cover the crushed stone base..

  • Doesn’t compact like ABC, but it stays in place on level ground.
  • Looks cleaner and gives a driveway a finished appearance.
  • Helps cut down on dust compared to crushed stone.

We often use washed stone when homeowners want a balance between strength and curb appeal.

Driveway Culvert Davidson NC

The Role of Drainage in Driveway Life

No matter what stone you use, a driveway will only last if water is controlled. At Fusion Grading, we’ve seen too many driveways ruined not because of the wrong stone, but because of poor drainage.

That’s why we design driveways with:

  • Drainage ditches to direct runoff
  • Swales to slow and guide water across the property
  • Culvert pipes to let stormwater pass underneath without cutting into the driveway

Pairing the right stone with proper drainage is the only way to build a driveway that lasts in our North Carolina climate.

Local Experience in Concord NC

Here in Concord and Cabarrus County, we’ve repaired countless driveways after heavy storms. Homeowners call us when their gravel has washed out, their driveway has rutted, or water keeps cutting across their property.

By combining ABC stone for strength, washed stone for appearance, and drainage systems for protection, we’ve helped property owners keep their driveways strong, safe, and looking sharp.

So, What’s the Best Stone for a Driveway?

  • If you need a base layer or live on a slope → go with Crushed ABC Stone.
  • If you want a clean look on flat groundWashed 57 or 67 Stone works best.
  • And in every case → don’t forget drainage.

The best driveway isn’t just about the stone. It’s about using the right stone in the right place, backed up with grading and drainage that keeps water from undoing all the work.

📞 Ready to upgrade your driveway in Concord NC? Contact Fusion Grading & Drainage today for professional driveway grading, stone installation, and drainage solutions.

River Rock Runoff Ditch