Best Gravel for Outdoor Flooring in Seattle

Choosing the right gravel for your outdoor flooring project can determine how long your patio, walkway, or backyard seating area lasts — especially in Seattle’s wet climate.

At F&M Construction & Remodeling, we help homeowners select materials that provide durability, drainage, and long-term stability. Not all gravel performs the same, and in the Pacific Northwest, proper selection and installation matter.

This guide breaks down the best gravel options for outdoor flooring in Seattle and how to choose the right one for your space.

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Why Gravel Is a Smart Choice for Seattle Outdoor Spaces

Gravel is one of the most practical outdoor flooring materials for Seattle homes because:

• It provides excellent drainage in rainy conditions
• It is more affordable than concrete or pavers
• It works well for patios, pathways, and fire pit areas
• It allows flexibility in design
• It requires minimal long-term maintenance when installed properly

However, the key is choosing the right type.

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1. Pea Gravel for Decorative Patios and Walkways

Pea gravel consists of small, rounded stones typically about 3/8 inch in diameter. It is comfortable underfoot and visually appealing.

Best for:

• Backyard seating areas
• Garden paths
• Decorative patio zones

Pros:

• Comfortable to walk on
• Excellent drainage
• Clean, natural appearance

Cons:

• Can shift without proper edging
• Not ideal for heavy furniture or high-traffic areas

In Seattle, pea gravel works best when combined with strong edge restraints and a properly compacted base.

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2. Crushed Stone (#57 Gravel) for Maximum Stability

Crushed stone, often referred to as #57 gravel, contains angular edges that lock together when compacted. This makes it more stable than a rounded stone.

Best for:

• High-traffic patios
• Walkways
• Base layers under pavers

Pros:

• Compacts tightly
• Less movement underfoot
• Excellent drainage
• Strong performance in wet conditions

For most outdoor flooring installations in Seattle, crushed stone provides the best long-term stability.

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3. Decomposed Granite for a Firm Surface

Decomposed granite (DG) is a fine-gravel material that compacts into a relatively firm surface when properly installed.

Best for:

• Modern patio designs
• Smooth walking surfaces

Pros:

• Firm and stable when compacted
• Clean, natural look
• Less shifting than pea gravel

However, in Seattle’s climate, proper compaction and base installation are critical to prevent erosion.

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Gravel to Avoid for Patio Flooring

Large river rock is often used for decoration, but is not ideal for outdoor flooring surfaces. Because the stones are rounded and larger, they shift easily, making the walking surface unstable.

River rock is better suited for drainage areas or landscaping accents, not patios.

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What Is the Best Gravel for Outdoor Flooring in Seattle?

For most Seattle homeowners, the best option is:

• Most Stable Option: Crushed stone (#57)
• Most Comfortable Option: Pea gravel (with proper edging)
• Firm Surface Option: Decomposed granite

Given Seattle’s frequent rainfall, drainage, and proper base preparation are more important than the top layer alone.

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Proper Installation Matters

The success of a gravel patio or walkway depends heavily on professional installation.

At F&M Construction & Remodeling, we typically recommend:

1. Excavating 6–8 inches
2. Installing landscape fabric
3. Adding 4–6 inches of compacted crushed base rock
4. Adding 2–3 inches of your chosen gravel
5. Installing solid edge restraints

Without proper compaction and grading, gravel surfaces can shift, sink, or develop drainage issues.

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Gravel Patio Installation in Seattle

If you are considering a gravel patio, pathway, or outdoor flooring installation in Seattle, professional site preparation ensures:

• Proper drainage
• Long-term durability
• Level surfaces
• Reduced maintenance

F&M Construction & Remodeling provides outdoor flooring and hardscape solutions designed specifically for Pacific Northwest conditions.