One of the most terrible landscaping issues is the rainwater runoff. In case you miss fixing it, small puddles might eventually turn into larger ones, and the result will be a costly repair. If you are looking for a solution to this problem, gravels might be one of your considerations. Does gravel soak up water? Today, we are going to reveal the answer to your question. Gravel is a good choice to prevent water accumulation as long as you use the right gravel in the right way. Therefore, before running to pick up gravel, read this blog post carefully.
What is Gravel, and How Does It Work?
Gravel is known as an aggregation of different types of rocks. Gravels are mostly formed by natural phenomena. But nowadays, those are manufactured using machines as crushed stones as well.
Mainly, gravels are categorized according to their size. There are different sizes, from granule to boulder. And Their textures also vary from one type to the other. Mostly, gravels that are naturally formed take a smooth texture, while crushed stone has a rough texture.
They are measured using the unit cubic yard. In general, one cubic yard of gravel weighs around 3000 lb.
There are numerous uses of gravel for landscaping projects. They are used to make driveways, pathways, gardens, outdoor patios, drainage systems, etc. their particular usage depends on the specific characteristics.
Commonly, gravels are needed to stabilize a surface. Moreover, some gravels can enhance the beauty of the landscape. And also, it can help to prevent runoff on the ground.
Does Gravel Soak Up Water?
Yes, gravels are naturally capable of absorbing water. Water can pass through them easily and quickly when compared to other aggregate types. That can be recognized as the least harmful natural way to prevent the pooling of rainwater and plants drowning.
Gravels can absorb the water and dry out the area. So, it can prevent flooding. To help the layers of gravel, you are advised to layer sand and crushed rocks underneath the gravel.
However, you should know that each and every type of gravel is not good at draining water. If your first aim of using gravel is to maintain a proper drainage system, you have to choose specialized gravel for that.
Mostly, natural gravels are better for drainage systems because they have a smooth texture without dust and debris. And it is not recommended to use gravels in smaller sizes for drainage systems because they can block the water from draining.
There are some other benefits of gravel, such as controlling weeds, enhancing the beauty of the garden, etc. Therefore, gravels are perfect for protecting your garden.
How Can Gravel Help with Drainage?
You can use gravel to drain water in multiple ways. Here we discuss the most important areas.
If there is an area that faces a lot of water accumulation, the French drains would be the best. Here, you will have to create a small trench with gravel that can direct the excess water away. Gravels prevent debris and leaves from blocking the water flow.
If your garden has raised beds of flowers, fruits, and vegetables, you will need gravel because the sides of the bed do not let rainwater drain. So, you can put a layer of gravel on the sides as well as the bottom of the bed as the gravel can absorb the water. And also, gravel can be layered in wood container beds before you plant.
And also, you can put 2 to 3 layers on pavements, especially if they are in a depression. These are some of the ways to use gravel, but you can use them anywhere you want to prevent water accumulation.
Does Water Pass Through Gravel?
Yes, gravels are rock fragments. Therefore, they are not as thin as other soil types, such as sand. When the rainwater falls on the gravel, it cannot create puddles due to the harsh stones.
Gravels cannot fully absorb water. But they let water seep through. Gravels have a high amount of hydraulic conductivity. Thus, they can let a fluid seep through their pore spaces.
Therefore, you can use gravel for diverting water and minimizing water accumulation. Consequently, you can maintain a non-slippery surface due to the friction and drainage quality of gravel. In contrast, other soil-based surfaces do not let the water pass through.
Does Gravel Help Evaporate Water?
Most drainage gravels have the quality of heat absorption too. They can absorb the heat while the sun is shining. Then they radiate the heat out during the night time. Because of this quality, gravel can help to evaporate the water as well.
You might have noticed that the gravels become dry within a short time, even after heavy rain. That circumstance proves the evaporating ability of gravel. So, the gravel does not wear out quickly, although they face heavy rains often.
How Long does It Take Water to Pass Through Gravel?
There is no specific timeline for water to pass through gravel. Depending on the water quantity and the gravel configuration, the time can always vary.
Due to the water absorption quality of the gravel, it does not take much time to absorb the water on the surface. But when the water passes through the gravel to the soil layers under the gravel, the water passes through slowly.
Indeed, it is important for the soil layers because soil can absorb more water when water is coming slowly.
What is the Best Stone to Absorb Water?
The best size of the gravel for drainage is between ½ and 1 inch. So, #3 and #57 crushed stones would be the best for drainage systems.
#3 Crushed stone can be used for both pipeless drains as well as French drains. And you can use pea gravel because it comes ¾ inch in size. And you can purchase them in different colors, such as brown, red, blue, gray, etc.
If you are unable to decide what would be the best for your ground, get some advice from a professional.
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