What is the difference between gravel and road base?

Gravel and road base serve different purposes, even though they are often used together. Gravel usually consists of crushed stone with minimal fines, allowing water to drain through easily. It is commonly used for drainage, decorative surfaces or as a top layer. Road base contains a mix of crushed rock and fines that compact tightly when watered and rolled, forming a strong, stable foundation. Road base is typically used underneath driveways, paths and paved areas where load-bearing strength is required.

Which gravel size is best for driveways?

Driveways often use a combination of materials rather than a single gravel size. Road base is commonly used as the main foundation layer because it compacts tightly and supports vehicle weight. For a gravel driveway surface, 10mm or 20mm blue metal is a popular choice due to its strength and angular shape, which helps the stones lock together. The best option depends on traffic levels, drainage and the desired finish.

How thick should road base be for a driveway?

The required depth of road base depends on the type of traffic the driveway will handle. For light residential use, a compacted depth of around 100mm is common, while heavier traffic areas may require more. Proper compaction is just as important as depth, as poorly compacted material can shift over time. Preparing the ground correctly and using the right depth helps prevent cracking, sinking and surface movement.

Gravel in Laurieton | Laurieton Landscape Supplies

Strong outdoor surfaces start with the right base, and using quality materials makes all the difference. At Laurieton Landscape Supplies, we offer a reliable range of gravels and road base to support driveways, pathways, parking areas and landscaping projects across Laurieton and surrounding areas. Our gravel options include 10mm and 20mm Blue Metal along with 10mm and 20mm Bago, ideal for drainage, decorative finishes and structural layers. We also stock a range of decorative gravel options to help you create a clean, low-maintenance finish for garden beds, pathways and feature areas. For load-bearing applications, we supply 20mm Pink Road Base and 20mm Blue Road Base, commonly used for driveways and hardstand areas. We bag all bulk materials on site, giving you fresh, consistent product and the flexibility to collect exactly what your project needs. For help choosing the right material or to discuss quantities, call 0408 346 304 and get your project moving.

What is the difference between gravel and road base?
Gravel and road base serve different purposes, even though they are often used together. Gravel usually consists of crushed stone with minimal fines, allowing water to drain through easily. It is commonly used for drainage, decorative surfaces or as a top layer. Road base contains a mix of crushed rock and fines that compact tightly when watered and rolled, forming a strong, stable foundation. Road base is typically used underneath driveways, paths and paved areas where load-bearing strength is required.
Which gravel size is best for driveways?
Driveways often use a combination of materials rather than a single gravel size. Road base is commonly used as the main foundation layer because it compacts tightly and supports vehicle weight. For a gravel driveway surface, 10mm or 20mm blue metal is a popular choice due to its strength and angular shape, which helps the stones lock together. The best option depends on traffic levels, drainage and the desired finish.
How thick should road base be for a driveway?
The required depth of road base depends on the type of traffic the driveway will handle. For light residential use, a compacted depth of around 100mm is common, while heavier traffic areas may require more. Proper compaction is just as important as depth, as poorly compacted material can shift over time. Preparing the ground correctly and using the right depth helps prevent cracking, sinking and surface movement.

Gravel is a versatile material used for drainage, pathways, driveways and decorative landscaping, with different sizes suited to different finishes and performance needs.

10mm Blue Metal: Great for drainage layers, pathways and general landscaping where a smaller gravel is easier to spread and level.
20mm Blue Metal: A strong, durable option for driveways, high-traffic areas and structural layers, while still supporting reliable drainage.
10mm Bago: A practical gravel for neat finishes in garden areas and pathways, offering both stability and water flow.
20mm Bago: A versatile choice for functional outdoor projects where you want a slightly larger gravel for drainage and base layers.

Road Base & Gravel in Laurieton

Solid Foundations That Last

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between gravel and road base?

Which gravel size is best for driveways?

How thick should road base be for a driveway?

Gravel

Road Bases

Products

Contact

Trading Hours