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Category Landscape Rock
Both pea gravel and river rock can provide homeowners with the aesthetic appeal they crave while requiring minimal maintenance. However, some individuals may consider one option better than the other for various reasons, as outlined below. The project you take on generally determines which option better suits your needs, as pea gravel and river rock have different characteristics.

Drainage

Staving off erosion and developing healthy soil for plants are among the advantages of proper drainage. Most homeowners consider river rocks the best option because their larger gaps allow water to flow through more effectively.

Given heavy runoff and the need to stabilize slopes, river rocks provide superior drainage and effective slope stabilization. This feature can create a functional dry creek bed as well, if you decide to add it to your landscaping project. In regions with hot, humid summers and frequent thunderstorms, the Mexican beach pebble Nashville homeowners often use is quite popular because proper drainage becomes even more critical to prevent water pooling and foundation damage. As a result, you’re more likely to conserve water and reduce runoff, lowering the risk of pest breeding grounds or costly damage to your home, especially patios or decks.

Strong Pathways

Guiding movement and enhancing the overall appeal of the landscape is crucial, which is what pathways provide. If you want a soft pathway, it’s best to choose pea gravel. The cushioned feel this option provides makes it ideal for all bare foot traffic. However, for a strong and stable path, river rock is the best choice.

Pea gravel can shift and roll regularly, making it more prone to weed growth. In contrast, river rocks are more durable and don’t require constant edging. Therefore, it can be the barrier your landscaping feature needs to manage its movements and prevent weed growth.

Shape, Sizes, and Colors

The visual interest of the landscaping feature typically depends on its shape, size, and color, as it can define the space, guide guests’ eyes, and add more function, appeal, personality, and texture to the outdoor area. If you’re seeking a bolder accent, river rocks should be your first choice. However, for a subtle accent that retains its functionality, pea gravel is the better choice.

The large size of river rocks makes them stronger focal points. The decorative rocks are available in varied textures and natural colors, giving homeowners a bold, rugged, and rustic look. This option is best for fire pit areas, dry creek beds, visual borders, and water features.

Multi-colored stones provide a softer, more uniform look, but gravel is often smoother and smaller than river rocks. Pea gravel is good for replacing mulch or filling gaps between larger stones.

Budget-Friendliness

To lower the odds of overspending and to complete your landscaping project without decreasing its value, budget-friendliness is important. You should generally design your entire project first, then prioritize, specifically selecting items that align with your long-term vision. River rocks are better for drainage and provide a bolder accent.

When choosing pea gravel, the lower cost could prevent you from incorporating sustainable practices. In colder regions where winters bring snow and ice, materials like the river rock and Mexican beach pebble Detroit landscaping professionals recommend are popular because they resist cracking in freezing temperatures and provide year-round durability that justifies the investment. Therefore, river rocks are better because they can stave off costly mid-project changes, especially in landscaping projects where cost is a primary concern.

No matter what kind of landscaping project you’re planning, decorative rocks, stones, and beach pebbles can give it additional depth, character, and beauty. Whether you’re looking for the finest Mexican beach pebble or an assortment of river rock, reach out to the experts at RS&P Rock Stone & Pebble, a premier landscape rock and supply superstore. To learn how we can help you create the landscape of your dreams, call us today.

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