#789 Stone (Pea Gravel / ⅜″ Washed Granite Gravel)

About #789 Stone (Pea Gravel / ⅜″ Washed Granite Gravel)

#789 Stone - also called “#7 Stone,” “7/789”, often referred to locally as pea gravel, is a clean, washed granite aggregate with particle sizes ranging between ⅜″ and ½″. Unlike natural pea gravel, which is typically rounded, #789 Stone is crushed granite with angular edges that help it interlock while still providing a smooth surface.

This material is one of the most versatile aggregates available in the Upstate SC region. Because of its small size and clean gradation, it is frequently chosen for driveway top layers, walkways, and drainage systems. It offers a finer finish than #57 Stone while still providing the drainage performance required in many residential and commercial applications.

Coverage and Density: One ton of #789 Stone covers roughly 140 square feet at 2″ depth or about 90 square feet at 3″ depth. With a planning density of approximately 20 cubic feet per ton, contractors can estimate tonnage with reasonable accuracy.

Common Applications in Upstate SC:

• Driveways & Parking Areas: Often used as a top dressing over Crusher Run, providing a smoother, finer finish that reduces tire chatter.

• Walkways & Paths: Its small size makes it more comfortable underfoot than larger stone.

• Drainage Systems: Clean gradation allows water to flow freely, making it a go-to choice for French drains, trench drains, and pipe backfill.

• Retaining Walls & Foundations: Helps relieve hydrostatic pressure by allowing water to pass through freely.

• Landscaping: Offers a neat, decorative look around gardens, stepping stones, and flower beds.

Local Performance: In clay-rich soils common to Spartanburg and Greenville counties, #789 Stone (or #7 Stone)is often installed over a geotextile fabric to prevent the stone from sinking into the subgrade. For driveways, many contractors recommend a base layer of Crusher Run for compaction, followed by a 2–3 inch cap of #789 Stone for surface smoothness and drainage.

Compared to Crusher Run, #789 Stone does not compact as tightly but provides better drainage and a finer surface. Compared to #57 Stone, it produces a smoother finish, making it better suited for pedestrian areas and decorative applications.

FAQs

1) What size is #789 Stone?

#789 Stone - sometimes sold as “#7 stone” or “7/789” - consists of washed granite particles sized ~⅜″–½″.

2) Is #789 Stone the same as pea gravel?

Locally it’s called pea gravel, but unlike rounded river pea gravel, it is angular crushed granite, which interlocks better.

3) How does #789 compare with #57 Stone?

#789 is smaller (~⅜″–½″ vs. ~½″–1″ for #57 Stone). It creates a smoother finish, while #57 is better for heavy-duty driveways and concrete mixes.

4) How does #789 compare with Crusher Run?

Unlike Crusher Run, #789 contains no fines, so it drains better but does not compact tightly. It is usually used as a top layer.

5) How much does one ton cover?

~140 sq ft at 2″ depth or ~90 sq ft at 3″ depth.

6) Is #789 Stone good for driveways?

Yes. It is commonly placed as a top dressing over a Crusher Run base.

7) Can #789 Stone be used for drainage?

Yes. It is widely used in French drains, trench drains, and pipe backfill.

8) Should I use fabric under #789 Stone in clay soils?

Yes. In clay-heavy soils, geotextile fabric prevents sinking and migration.

9) Is #789 comfortable for walkways?

Yes. Its smaller size makes it easier to walk on than larger stones like #57.

10) What color is typical in Spartanburg and Greenville quarries?

Expect granite gray. Shade differences occur depending on quarry and moisture.

11) Will #789 wash away in rain?

It resists movement due to its angular shape. Proper slope and edging further prevent washout.

12) How often should a #789 driveway be topped off?

Every 1–3 years depending on usage and rainfall.

13) Will weeds grow through #789 Stone?

Weeds are rare when installed at proper depth with fabric beneath.

14) Can #789 Stone be used in concrete?

It can, but #57 Stone is the preferred coarse aggregate.

15) What is the minimum delivery order?

Material is sold by the ton. Free delivery applies at 15+ tons. Smaller orders include a delivery fee.

16) Do you tailgate spread #789 Stone?

Yes, at no extra cost. Perfectly even distribution cannot be guaranteed.

17) Is #789 better than Screenings (Granite Dust) under pavers?

Yes. Screenings are used for bedding; #789 is typically used above as a surface or drainage layer.

18) Is #789 Stone used for retaining wall backfill?

Yes, its drainage properties relieve hydrostatic pressure behind walls.

19) Can #789 Stone be used for septic or utility trench backfill?

Yes. It is commonly used in Spartanburg and Greenville for septic drain fields and utility trench backfill.

20) Is #789 Stone suitable for steep driveways?

Yes, especially when installed over Crusher Run. Its angular edges provide traction.

21) How much #789 Stone fits in a triaxle dump truck?

A triaxle typically carries 20–22 tons depending on weight limits.

22) Do you offer same-day or next-day delivery?

Delivery is typically scheduled within 1–2 business days. Contact us for current availability.

23) Is #789 Stone available year-round in the Upstate?

Yes. It is stocked consistently at local quarries and delivered year-round.

Disclaimer

Natural products vary in size and color. Quantities are approximate. See our Disclaimer & Terms of Delivery page for full details.