Decorative stones are the quickest way to lift a garden. A well-chosen gravel, pebble or slate chipping adds instant colour and texture, suppresses weeds, improves drainage and needs next to no maintenance once laid.
Best-sellers include classic Golden Gravel, coastal-style pebbles and rich Welsh Slate chippings, with a spectrum of colours running from cool greys to warm honey tones. Use them for driveways, paths, borders, rockeries and water features, or as a striking contrast against paving and planting.
For a tidy, locked-in finish, pair smaller stones with VUBA Easihold stone binder. Order online with postcode-based delivery pricing, or browse the full range at our Ferndown, Bournemouth, Dorchester and Christchurch depots.
As a general rule, aim for a settled depth of around 40 to 50mm for paths and beds, which is enough to hide the membrane and stay put underfoot. Driveways benefit from a slightly deeper layer over a properly compacted sub-base.
Do I need a membrane under gravel?
Yes, a weed membrane such as Weedcheck is strongly recommended. It blocks weeds from growing up through the stones and stops the gravel from slowly sinking into the soil below, keeping coverage even for years.
How do I stop gravel spreading and migrating?
For paths and driveways, CORE stabilisation grids hold the stone within a honeycomb structure, while VUBA Easihold binds decorative stones from 4 to 20mm in place with a simple pour-on or spray application. Solid edging also helps contain loose areas.
Which stones are best for a driveway?
Choose an angular gravel around 14 to 20mm, which locks together under tyres far better than rounded pebbles. Pair it with a compacted Type 1 sub-base, and consider CORE Drive grids for a surface that never ruts.
How much stone do I need for my project?
It depends on the stone size and your chosen depth, so measure the length and width of your area and call us on 01202 874207. The team will happily convert your measurements into the right number of bags.
Will decorative stones fade over time?
Natural stone holds its colour extremely well, though tones soften subtly as the stone weathers. Many chippings, especially Welsh Slate, look their most vivid when wet, and a rinse instantly refreshes the display.
