In Plain English
Quick Answer
Crushed or natural stone used for drainage, road base, and concrete — one of the most common construction materials.
Definition
Definition
Loose aggregation of rock fragments ranging from 2mm to 64mm in diameter, used extensively in construction for drainage, base course aggregate, concrete mix, and erosion control. Crushed stone (angular) and rounded gravel have different properties; angular material provides better interlock and stability for base courses. Gravel is classified by size gradation according to ASTM or local specifications.
Context
Why It Matters in Bidding
Gravel feeds many bid line items at once base course, drainage backfill, pipe bedding, and concrete aggregate so pricing depends on getting the correct gradation, angularity, and quantity right for each use. Because it is sold by the ton or cubic yard with separate haul costs, small errors in volume or conversion factors compound quickly across a large site package.
Example
Example
An estimator prices 1,200 tons of crushed angular base under the parking lot, converting from plan cubic yards using the supplier's compacted density and adding haul from the nearest quarry.
See Also
Related Terms
FAQ
Questions Contractors Ask
How is gravel measured and priced in a construction bid?
Gravel is typically quantified by cubic yard from the takeoff, then converted to tons using the material's density for pricing, since quarries sell by weight. Estimators add compaction allowances for base course, haul cost from the source, and any testing or gradation requirements specified for the application.
What is the difference between crushed stone and rounded gravel for bidding?
Crushed stone is angular and interlocks tightly, making it the choice for structural base course and load-bearing layers, while rounded gravel drains well and suits backfill or drainage applications. Specs usually dictate which to use, and substituting one for the other can cause a base failure and a rejected pay item.
Why does gravel gradation matter on a project specification?
Gradation controls how a gravel compacts, drains, and bears load, so specs reference a defined size distribution. Supplying out-of-spec material risks failed compaction tests and removal at the contractor's expense. Estimators confirm the required gradation with the supplier before bidding to ensure the quoted product actually meets the project's requirements.
Need more than definitions?
Get AI-powered bid alerts, automated form filling, and proposal drafting.
Start Free Trial