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what's the best gravel to use?

GiantBread

Member
Joined
Mar 25, 2025
Messages
14
City & State/Province
Texas
I'm planning to put a concrete slab in a really wet area, right? Like, really wet. I want to use drain tiles to help get rid of the water.
Here are my questions: What's the best gravel to use? I know that I need gravel that drains well and doesn't hold water. Is 5/7 Pea gravel a good idea? I'm thinking about crush and run it would create a very strong base. Please tell me if I'm in the right direction here
 
TBF I'm not sold on pea gravel for this job since it doesn't compact well, which might lead to trouble down the road. Crush and run is a much better bet because it forms a stable base and allows decent drainage. Have you made sure the drain tiles channel water far enough away from the slab to avoid pooling nearby? That part's key in a wet area like yours.
 
First, you need to assess your existing ground and figure out the soil type and how deep it's saturated, so as to know your excavation depth and the best base material. Whatever base you come to choose, compact it thoroughly. For real, use a smaller ride on roller if possible, it makes a difference especially in wet conditions. After the base is solid, put down a good 10 mil visqueen vapor barrier, then a few inches of sand, after that go build and place your rebar cage (make sure it's supported off the sand), and finally, pour your floor using at least 3000 psi concrete.
 
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