Whether you’re sprucing up your landscape or laying the groundwork for a new construction project, the foundation starts with stone—literally. But with so many crushed quarry stone options available, how do you know which one is right for your project?
At Ridgewood Soils, we supply a range of premium crushed stones designed for everything from drainage solutions to decorative landscaping. Below, we break down the types of crushed quarry stones we carry so you can find the perfect match for your job.
3/4″ Modified Stone – The Workhorse of Construction
Appearance: A mix of 3/4″ crushed stone blended with stone dust and fines.
Texture: Rough, jagged edges with a gritty consistency due to the fine particles.
Why people love it: This stone is known for its excellent compaction properties. The combination of stone sizes and dust creates a dense, sturdy base when packed down—ideal for supporting heavy loads or preventing shifting over time.
Best used for:
- Driveways and private roads
- Base layer for pavers, patios, and walkways
- Underneath sheds or pole barns
- Foundations for retaining walls or hot tubs
Pro tip: After spreading, use a plate compactor and water to lock everything into place.
2B Clean Stone (#57 Stone) – The Drainage Specialist
Appearance: Clean, washed, 3/4″ angular blue stone with no fines or dust.
Texture: Dry, clean, and slightly sharp to the touch.
Why people love it: 2B Clean Stone doesn’t compact, which means water can flow freely between the stones—making it a favorite for drainage and utility projects.
Best used for:
- French drains and swales
- Under concrete slabs to prevent frost heave
- Around pipes and septic tanks
- As a decorative stone for clean edging or mulched beds
Pro tip: Use landscape fabric underneath to keep the stone clean and prevent soil from mixing in.
1B Clean Stone (#8 Stone) – Small Stone, Big Potential
Appearance: About 1/2″ clean blue stone—smaller and more uniform than 2B.
Texture: Smooth and lightweight, with sharp edges for stability.
Why people love it: This versatile, decorative stone offers both function and style. It allows for some drainage, compacts lightly, and adds a polished look to landscape features.
Best used for:
- Permeable paver systems
- Around fire pits or outdoor kitchens
- Playground borders
- Top dressing for garden paths or flower beds
- Erosion control on slight slopes
Pro tip: Mix it with mulch alternatives or use it to highlight shrubs and hardscape features.
Stone Screenings – Fine and Functional
Appearance: Grayish-tan fine stone dust and chips, typically smaller than 1/4″.
Texture: Soft, powdery, and sandy to the touch when dry.
Why people love it: Screenings are ideal when you need something that compacts tightly and provides a smooth, level surface. It’s the go-to for fine-tuning or finishing hardscape jobs.
Best used for:
- Bedding layer beneath flagstone or pavers
- Leveling base for horse arenas or barns
- Walkways and bike paths
- Filling in gaps between larger stones
Pro tip: Rake and mist with water before compacting to create a solid surface.
#3 Clean Ballast Stone – Built for Big Jobs
Appearance: Large, angular crushed stone ranging from 1.5″ to 2.5″.
Texture: Heavy, rough, and highly angular.
Why people love it: This robust stone is used when strength and drainage are critical. It’s too large to compact but perfect for load-bearing and erosion control.
Best used for:
- Railroad ballast and heavy drainage applications
- Retaining wall backfill
- Erosion control in ditches or along slopes
- Base material for large foundations or access roads
Pro tip: Often layered beneath smaller stone grades for added strength and filtration.
3/4″ White Stone – Clean, Bright, and Decorative
Appearance: Smooth, crushed white marble or limestone that adds a clean, modern finish.
Texture: Polished, rounded edges with minimal dust.
Why people love it: White Stone stands out in any landscape. It reflects light, adds visual contrast, and stays looking sharp all season long.
Best used for:
- Modern garden accents and rock beds
- Driveway top layers for a luxury look
- Pathways or courtyards
- Around trees, fountains, or seating areas
Pro tip: Use a border or edging to contain the stone and reduce cleanup over time.
Need Help Deciding?
At Ridgewood Soils, we don’t just deliver stone—we deliver solutions. Our experienced team can help you choose the right crushed quarry stone based on your project goals, budget, and location, contact us now.