#57 Limestone Gravel (1/2 - 1")

#57 Limestone Gravel (1/2" - 1") Overview

#57 Limestone Gravel, also known as 1/2 - 1" Crushed Limestone, is a durable aggregate composed mainly of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). The gravel consists of angular to sub-angular particles sized between 1/2 inch and 1 inch. Its light gray to tan color and hard, dense nature make it suitable for various construction and landscaping applications.

This material is valued for its ability to interlock tightly when compacted, creating a stable surface that supports load-bearing while allowing water to drain effectively. Because of these properties, #57 limestone gravel is commonly used as a top layer for driveways, walkways, and drainage systems. It can also serve as a base or sub-base layer in some construction projects.

Physical and Technical Characteristics

The gravel's particle size distribution complies with ASTM standards such as ASTM D448 and ASTM C33, ensuring quality and consistency. Typically, 100% of the material passes through a 1-inch sieve, with none or minimal passing through a 1/2-inch sieve, depending on the supplier. It has a specific gravity of approximately 2.6 to 2.8 and low absorption rates below 2%.

Other important characteristics include moderate porosity and permeability, which aid drainage. The material is pH neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 7-9) and resistant to weathering in most environments. It generally contains minimal fines, clay, silt, or organic impurities, meeting ASTM C117 and C142 cleanliness standards. Handling or crushing the material can produce dust, so appropriate precautions should be taken during installation.

Common Applications

• Top layer for residential and commercial driveways and pathways
• Drainage layers in construction, landscaping, septic systems, and French drains
• Base or sub-base layer for roads, pavements, and other structural foundations
• Backfill around pipes and retaining walls
• Decorative landscaping gravel
• Concrete aggregate in some cases
• Erosion control

Limitations and Considerations

• Not suitable for heavy traffic areas without proper base layers
• Dust generation during handling requires control measures
• Material is delivered loose and is not spread by the supplier
• Road access must accommodate heavy trucks for delivery

Material Specifications Table

Ordering and Delivery Details from Gravelshop

Gravelshop supplies #57 Limestone Gravel across the U.S. via independent trucking companies. Orders can be placed online with delivery costs included in the price. You can select your preferred delivery date and time slot during checkout. The earliest delivery is two business days after ordering.

Delivery is made loose by dump truck, deposited at the most suitable spot on your property as determined by the driver. Gravelshop does not provide spreading or landscaping services. Road access must be at least 12 feet wide and suitable for heavy trucks. If these conditions are not met, the driver will unload as close as possible to the delivery point.

Delivery Pricing Examples

Prices vary by location due to sourcing and logistics. Below are sample prices per ton and delivery fees for selected cities:

How to Use #57 Limestone Gravel

When installing #57 limestone gravel for driveways or walkways, the angular particles lock together under compaction, creating a firm surface that withstands light to moderate vehicle traffic. Its permeability allows water to drain through, reducing runoff and pooling.

For drainage applications, this gravel works well as a filter layer around pipes or in French drains. It can also be placed as a base layer beneath pavement or concrete to improve structural support and drainage.

However, it is important to note that this gravel is not intended for heavy traffic areas without an appropriate engineered base. Also, since it is delivered loose, spreading and compaction must be done on-site by the user or contractor.