The best gravel for a French drain is typically larger than your average gravel. Ideally, it should be one-half to one-inch wide to avoid clogs. Pea-sized gravel isn’t suitable for drainage because it is too small to allow sufficient water flow. Also, ensure the gravel is washed to remove debris that will impede water flow.

Crushed stone #57

Crushed stone #57 is a versatile type of stone and is used for various construction projects. It is an excellent choice for building driveways, sidewalks, asphalt roads, and railroad ballast. It also holds its shape well when placed on a flat surface. However, it should not be used on sloped areas because it is susceptible to washing and sliding in heavy storms.

#57 stone is ideal for drainage and control. It lets water flow naturally away from wet areas without causing overcrowding. It also prevents water from pooling and flooding. However, it is not recommended for all projects. The right mix of other materials is critical. You should consult a landscape architect or project engineer to get the right combination for your project.

River gravel

One of the essential components of a French drain is gravel. The gravel helps the water soak through the ground and flow down the gutter’s slope. When choosing gravel, you’ll want to look for pieces of hard rock, such as granite chips or washed river rock. They should be at least one inch wide and will not chip or crack easily.

Gravel is an excellent drainage material, but be careful not to overfill. Too much gravel can pack into the drain pipe, causing it to clog. You’ll need three to five inches of gravel to make a smooth surface. A small amount of gravel is sufficient for a French drain, but don’t overfill it!

Granite

When you install a French drain, the process is slightly different than trenching a regular drain. Much of the dirt will not return to the trench after the drain is completed. Instead, it will be filtered by the gravel. Sometimes, people load this subsoil into wheelbarrows and haul it to a nearby road for pickup or another part of the property for fill. To avoid this, plan to pile the subsoil on one side of the trench and spread the topsoil on the other.

For the bottom level of the French drain, base gravel #3 is a great choice. This gravel is approximately an inch wide, making it perfect for the bottom layer. In addition, it will not compact, preventing clogging and ensuring that water can flow freely through the French drain. While it is not the most aesthetically pleasing gravel option, it is ideal for a french drain.

White Dolomite

If you are considering installing a French drain in your garden, you will want to use gravel suitable for drainage. White Dolomite is ideal because it is a white crystalline stone with good drainage properties. However, the stone should be at least 3/4 inch thick to ensure proper water flow. If you are unsure of the appropriate gravel for drainage, you can consult a professional.

You can use various types of gravel for your drainage project. The size of your gravel should be based on the size of your drainage system. The most popular gravel size for French drains and gravel pits is about 1/2 to 3/4 inches in diameter. A gravel bed of this size will drain water efficiently and prevent clogging.

Base gravel #3

A French drain is an excellent way to keep the soil compact and dry in a garden. It is a standard retaining wall method, and several different types are available. Once you have decided on the drainage system, you must choose the gravel and piping.

The base gravel material is an excellent option for a French drain, as it is perfect for filling the base level. It is a mix of crushed stone about two inches wide and more extensive. It is not very aesthetically pleasing, but it offers excellent drainage properties. In addition, base gravel #3 will not compact, which prevents clogging.

A French drain is commonly installed at a lower elevation, so that runoff water is drawn into the pipe. This means water that runs off your lawn during rain or from hoses will flow into the drainage pipe through the holes. This water is then channeled to a catch basin or stormwater sewage line.