Long Beach Site Materials Highlights Road Base vs. #57 Stone for Driveway Projects

Long Beach, CA – May 17, 2025 – Long Beach Site Materials (longbeachsitematerials.com) is excited to guide homeowners and contractors in choosing the ideal driveway materials by comparing road base and #57 stone. As a premier supplier of high-quality aggregates, our team provides expert advice on when each material is most appropriate, why one might be preferred over the other, and how combining both creates a durable, attractive driveway.

Why Choose Road Base?Road base, a mix of crushed gravel, stone dust, and fines, is a top choice for driveway foundations due to its strength and affordability. Customers select road base from Long Beach Site Materials for its:

• Robust Stability: The varied particle sizes compact tightly, forming a solid base that supports heavy vehicles, like trucks or vans, without shifting or settling.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Road base offers an economical solution for a strong foundation, reducing long-term maintenance expenses.
• Erosion Resistance: Its compactable nature prevents washouts, making it ideal for areas with heavy rain or loose soil.

Road base is perfect for the foundational layer of driveways, especially in high-traffic areas or regions with unstable soil. It’s the go-to material when durability and load-bearing capacity are essential.

Why Choose #57 Stone?#57 stone, a crushed limestone aggregate ranging from 3/4 inch to 1 inch, is prized for its drainage and aesthetic appeal. Customers choose #57 stone from Long Beach Site Materials for:

• Superior Drainage: Its uniform size allows water to flow through easily, preventing puddles and damage in wet conditions.
• Polished Appearance: The consistent size and shape create a smooth, attractive surface, ideal for visible driveway areas.
• Versatility: #57 stone excels as a top layer or standalone material for lighter-duty driveways.

#57 stone is best suited as a top layer or for driveways with light traffic, such as residential paths or areas needing good drainage. Its looser structure makes it less ideal for heavy-load foundations.

When to Choose One Over the Other

• Road Base: Opt for road base for driveways requiring heavy-duty support or in areas with poor soil or frequent rainfall. It’s ideal for foundational layers in commercial or rural settings where stability is paramount.
• #57 Stone: Choose #57 stone for driveways prioritizing drainage and aesthetics, like residential entrances or decorative pathways. It’s perfect for lighter traffic or areas where a smooth surface is desired.

The Ideal Approach: Layering Road Base and #57 StoneFor the ultimate driveway, Long Beach Site Materials recommends a layered approach. Lay a 4-6 inch base of road base, firmly compacted, to provide a rock-solid foundation that prevents settling. Top it with a 2-3 inch layer of #57 stone for improved drainage and a sleek finish. This combination delivers:

• Unmatched Durability: The road base supports heavy loads, while #57 stone protects against surface wear and erosion.
• Optimal Drainage: #57 stone allows water to pass through, with road base directing it away from the driveway.
• Long-Term Savings: A layered driveway minimizes maintenance, extending its lifespan and reducing costs.

Why Long Beach Site Materials?Long Beach Site Materials is dedicated to supplying premium aggregates tailored to your project’s needs. Our road base and #57 stone are sourced for quality and consistency, ensuring a driveway that lasts. With reliable delivery and expert guidance, we make your project seamless.

Ready to build your dream driveway? Visit longbeachsitematerials.com or call 888-237-2746 to order. For inquiries, email [email protected].

Media Contact:
Megan Foster
888-237-2746
[email protected]

About Long Beach Site Materials
Long Beach Site Materials is a leading supplier of construction aggregates, serving homeowners and contractors in Long Beach and surrounding areas. Committed to quality, value, and customer satisfaction, we provide the materials to turn your vision into reality.