3/4" Drain Rock (Drainage Gravel, #57 Rock, Driveway Gravel, Backfill Rock)
3/4" Drain Rock, also known as drainage gravel, #57 rock, driveway gravel, or backfill drain rock, is a clean, crushed aggregate designed for maximum drainage and stability. This material consists of angular crushed stone with some dust, allowing water to flow freely through the rock while maintaining structural integrity. Because it does not compact like base rock, 3/4" drain rock is ideal for applications where drainage, permeability, and water management are critical. It is one of the most commonly used materials in both residential and commercial projects, especially for drainage systems, foundations, and gravel surfaces.
COMMON USES
3/4" Drain Rock is one of the most versatile aggregates, widely used anywhere water needs to move freely through the material.
Common Uses
Drainage Systems (French Drains & Pipe Bedding)Used around perforated pipes and trench systems to allow water to flow while preventing clogging.
Driveways & Parking Areas Creates a stable, free-draining surface ideal for rural driveways, access roads, and parking pads.
Retaining Wall Backfill Placed behind retaining walls to relieve hydrostatic pressure and improve long-term structural performance.
Foundation & Footing Drainage Installed around foundations to prevent water buildup and reduce the risk of moisture damage.
Septic Systems & Leach Fields Commonly used in approved systems for proper water dispersion and filtration.
Erosion Control & Slope Stabilization Helps manage runoff and prevent soil washout in sloped areas.
Landscape Drainage Solutions Used in dry creek beds, swales, and low areas where water tends to collect.
Why Contractors use 3/4" Drain Rock Gravel
Excellent water permeability
Won’t compact — maintains void space for drainage
Durable and long-lasting
Easy to install and spread
Works well with geotextile fabric for filtration systems
MATERIAL SPECS
Type: Angular crushed rock (screened aggregate, no fines)
Common Names: 3/4" Drain Rock, #57 Rock, Drainage Gravel, Backfill Rock, Driveway Gravel
Size: Approximately 3/4" (typically ranges from 1/2" to 1")
Shape: Angular (crushed stone, not rounded)
Color: Gray (may vary slightly by quarry source)
Composition: Crushed stone such as granite, basalt, or similar aggregates
Key Characteristics
Screened / No Fines
Contains some dust, allowing water to pass through easily without clogging.
High Drainage Capacity
Designed to create void spaces between rocks, making it ideal for drainage applications.
Non-Compacting
Unlike base rock, this material does not compact tightly—perfect for drainage, but not for structural base layers.
Durable & Long-Lasting
Resists breakdown over time, making it suitable for long-term installations.
Pro Tip
For best performance in drainage applications, install 3/4" drain rock with geotextile fabric to prevent soil migration and maintain long-term permeability.
COVERAGE & QUANTITY GUIDE
How much Drain Rock 3/4" Gravel do you need?
The amount of material required depends on the area (square feet) and depth (inches) of your project.
General Coverage Estimate
1 cubic yard covers approximately:
150 sq ft at 2” depth
100 sq ft at 3” depth
75 sq ft at 4” depth
Recommended Depth by Application
French Drains / Drainage Trenches→ Typically 12”–18” deep (varies by design)
Driveways / Parking Areas→ 3”–4” depth minimum (over proper base for best results)
Retaining Wall Backfill→ 12”+ behind wall depending on engineering specs
General Landscaping / Drainage Areas→ 2”–4” depth
Pro Tip
Always order 5–10% extra material to account for:
Uneven ground
Compaction (in some applications)
Material loss during spreading
DELIVERY & IMPORTANT NOTES
Delivery Information
We offer bulk delivery of 3/4" drain rock directly to your home or job site using professional dump trucks.
Driveway-friendly small dump trucks available for tight or residential access
Larger truck options available for bulk contractor loads
Material is delivered and dumped in one location per load
For volume discounts please call or use the quote request form
Average Load Size
Small Dump Truck: ~5–7 cubic yards
Large Dump Truck: ~17–20 cubic yards (depending on weight limits)
We deliver 3/4" drain rock gravel throughout the bay area including: Marin, Sonoma, Contra Costa, Alameda, Solano, San Francisco and San Mateo counties.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What is 3/4" Drain Rock Gravel used for?
Used for drainage systems, French drains, retaining wall backfill, driveways, and foundation drainage.
Is this same as #57 Aggregate Rock?
Yes — 3/4" drain rock is commonly known as #57 stone or drainage gravel.
Does it compact well?
No — it stays loose to allow water to flow through, making it ideal for drainage.
Can I use this rock in a driveway?
Yes, but for best results install over a compacted base layer.
Do I need landscape fabric underneath?
Recommended — it helps prevent soil mixing and improves long-term drainage.
How much does a cubic yard of Drain Rock Gravel cover?
150 sq ft at 2”
100 sq ft at 3”
75 sq ft at 4”
What size is it exactly?
Approximately 3/4", typically ranging from 1/2" to 1" (varies by quarry source)
