Decomposed Granite Costs

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

1. Average Costs

Natural DG: $60 per ton
Stabilized DG: $185 per ton
Resin-Bonded DG: $225 per ton

Project Cost Examples

| Project | Materials Only | Materials + Installation | |-----------------|--------------------|------------------------------| | Patio (10'x10')| $20 | $130 | | Walkway (4'x50')| $50 | $300 | | Driveway (20'x24')| $230 | $1,425 |

2. Factors Influencing Costs

Particle Size

Smaller particles cost less than larger pieces.
Example: $60/ton for 3/8-inch red, blue, or gray DG.

Type

| Type | Cost (Per Ton) | Best Uses | |-----------------------|---------------------------|----------------------------------------------| | Natural DG | $60 | Mulch, garden beds, general landscaping. | | Stabilized DG | $185 | Walkways, patios, areas needing durability. | | Resin-Bonded DG | $225 | Driveways, slopes, high-traffic areas. |

Quality

Lower-Quality DG: Susceptible to erosion, requires frequent replacement.
Stabilized DG: Long-lasting, less maintenance.

Delivery

$50–$75 per load, depending on distance and volume.

Labor

$70–$80 per hour for professional installation.
Some contractors may offer flat rates for projects.

Site Prep

Grading and Leveling: $1,500–$2,000 for driveway-sized areas.
Tree/Brush Removal: $200–$500, depending on the number of trees.

3. Depth Requirements by Project

| Project | Depth | Notes | |---------------|---------------------|------------------------------------------------| | Patio | 2.5 inches | Supports furniture and light foot traffic. | | Walkway | 3 inches | Withstands heavy foot traffic. | | Driveway | 6 inches | Supports vehicle weight and reduces shifting. |

4. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY Installation

Savings: Avoids $70–$80/hour labor costs.
Tool Rentals: Compactor costs ~$100/day.
Challenges: Time-intensive, requires precise leveling and compacting.

Hiring a Pro

Advantages: Faster installation, long-lasting results.
Ideal for: Driveways, slopes, or large projects requiring expertise.

5. Money-Saving Tips

Choose Local Granite: Opt for colors available locally to avoid high transportation costs.
Bundle Orders: Order all DG at once to save on delivery fees.
Pre-Prep the Area: Clear the site of trees, bushes, and debris yourself to reduce labor hours.

6. Key Benefits of DG

Aesthetic Versatility: Available in various natural colors.
Cost-Effective: Lower than many landscaping materials like gravel.
Low Maintenance: Durable and easy to maintain when stabilized.

Decomposed granite offers a durable, attractive, and budget-friendly option for landscaping projects of all sizes. With proper preparation and installation, it can enhance your outdoor space for years to come!