Whether for driveways, pathways, patios, utility landscape areas or to surround trees, crushed stone or decomposed granite can be a versatile material that prevents weed growth, maintain even soil moisture and makes an outdoor space more appealing. These two are not the same material, though. Decomposed granite has a natural coarse look to it, while crushed stone products tend to be more flat and have a higher amount of fine material. Crushed stone products, granite, sandstone, limestone and others offer a greater array of natural colors to work with than most true decomposed granite materials.
From residential landscaping to commercial applications, decomposed granite offers a durable, natural solution for a wide range of outdoor projects.
Decomposed Granite for Garden Pathways
DG creates natural, compacted walkways that blend seamlessly into any landscape design. Ideal for residential gardens, parks, and walking paths with long-lasting durability.
Stabilized DG provides a cost-effective alternative to concrete, offering a permeable surface that reduces runoff while maintaining strength under vehicle traffic.
Create clean, modern outdoor living spaces with DG surfaces that stay cool, drain efficiently, and complement fire pits, seating areas, and backyard designs.
Complete your project with the right base, edging, and ground cover materials.
Base Rock & Road Base
A compactable sub-base layer that provides stability for DG installations, especially in driveways and high-traffic areas.
Filtration Fabric
Prevents weed growth beneath DG surfaces while allowing water to drain naturally through the soil.
Steel & Aluminum Edging
Keeps DG contained and prevents spreading over time, maintaining clean lines and defined edges in your landscape.
Crushed Rock & Gravel
Used for drainage layers and structural support in areas where additional stability is required beneath DG surfaces.
Decomposed Granite Buying Guide
Choose the right DG for your project, calculate coverage, and compare materials.
Decomposed granite (DG) is a naturally compactable material made from weathered stone that breaks down into fine particles. It’s widely used for pathways, patios, driveways, and ground cover due to its balance of durability, permeability, and natural appearance.
At CalDG, we focus specifically on supplying consistent, high-quality DG blends for residential and commercial projects. Use this guide to compare material types, understand installation basics, and determine the right option for your project.
Stabilized DG includes binding agents to improve durability and reduce migration. For structural installations, a properly compacted base layer is recommended.
What Contractors Know
Depth varies by use: Most pathways and patios use 2–3 inches of DG, while driveways may require additional base preparation.
Base preparation matters: A compacted sub-base improves longevity and helps prevent shifting over time.
Containment improves performance: Edging helps keep DG in place and maintains clean project lines.
Plan for compaction: DG settles after installation, so ordering slightly more material helps ensure proper coverage.
Install in layers: Gradual compaction creates a more stable and even surface.
Color variation is natural: DG tones vary by quarry and batch — samples are recommended for large projects.
Explore the DG blends and landscaping materials you’ve recently viewed to continue building your perfect space.
Landscape & Hardscape Blog
Whether you’re creating a relaxing backyard retreat, designing a stunning front yard that stands out on your street, or enhancing your outdoor space with the natural beauty of California stone and decomposed granite, our blog offers expert tips and inspiration to make your project simple, beautiful, and built to last.
Adobe Sunset Decomposed Granite
Anejo Gold Decomposed Granite
Apache Sunset Decomposed Granite
Baja Brown Decomposed Granite
Bison Brown Decomposed Granite
Black Basalt Decomposed Granite
Black Hawk Decomposed Granite
Blue Decomposed Granite
Blue Moon Decomposed Granite
Blue Sierra Decomposed Granite
Brimstone Decomposed Granite
California Gold Decomposed Granite
