Natural Loose DG
Spring 2026 booking · Free estimate in 24 hours · (888) 341-6941
Natural · Permeable · Low-maintenance — built to compact & last
A softer surface, built to last.
Decomposed granite — finely crushed natural rock that compacts into a firm, stable surface while keeping a soft, organic look. Ideal for pathways, patios, courtyards, and drought-tolerant landscapes that need to feel grounded, not paved.
For pathways, patios, courtyards & xeriscapes
Why DG works outdoors.
Decomposed granite is the rare hardscape material that feels at home in both modern courtyards and rustic gardens. It compacts firm underfoot, drains naturally through the surface, and weathers with character instead of cracking.
We install DG with proper grading, an engineered base, and steel or stone edging on every job — so the surface stays where you put it. Stabilized DG with a polymer binder gives you a near-paved feel for high-traffic areas; loose DG keeps the soft, garden-path look. Both are permeable, both are repairable, and both age gracefully.
DG styles & install options
Six finishes, one foundation.
From a loose garden-path feel to a tightly compacted courtyard surface, the right DG depends on how the space gets used. Mix colors and binders to define zones — a stabilized patio with a softer DG path leading away.
Stabilized DG
Compacted DG
Color Blends
Steel-Edged DG
DG with Stone
Engineered specs
The numbers behind a stable DG surface.
2–4"
Compacted depth
Two 2-inch lifts compacted between layers — patios & high-traffic walks.
95%
Compaction target
Plate-compacted to 95% of standard Proctor density for ICPI-grade stability.
10+yr
Stabilized lifespan
Polymer-binder DG resists erosion, weeds, and washout for a decade plus.
100%
Permeable
Drains through the surface — no runoff, qualifies for permeable hardscape credits.
Where DG excels
One surface, four lifestyles.
DG works best in spaces that want to feel natural, not built. It defines a path without breaking the line of the garden, anchors a patio without the weight of a slab, and lets water through to the soil underneath.
Pathways
Pathways & garden walks.
Smooth, compact walking surfaces that guide people through gardens, side yards, and outdoor environments with a natural, grounded feel.
Patios
Patios & seating areas.
A warm, rustic alternative to concrete or pavers — ideal for firepits, outdoor dining spaces, and lounging areas under a tree canopy.
Courtyards
Courtyards & entries.
Adds charm and texture to entryways, courtyards, and transitional areas — complements both modern and classic architecture.
Xeriscape
Drought-tolerant landscapes.
DG is ideal for xeriscaping and eco-friendly designs — beauty without irrigation, runoff, or constant maintenance.
Our installation process
From grading to final compaction.
A long-lasting DG surface depends on prep, not material. Every install gets graded for drainage, edged for containment, and compacted in lifts — that's the difference between a path that lasts a decade and one that washes out the first winter.
01
Site preparation & grading
We clear the area, remove existing materials, and grade the ground to establish proper slope and drainage. Water flows away from structures — no pooling, no erosion.
02
Excavation & base layer
The space is excavated to the correct depth and filled with a compacted base of crushed rock. This foundational layer adds strength, improves longevity, and supports consistent compaction above.
03
Edging installation
Steel, paver, stone, or bender-board edges are installed to frame and contain the DG. Proper edging keeps the surface neat, prevents spreading, and enhances the overall design.
04
DG placement & leveling
Decomposed granite is spread evenly across the area, leveled by hand, and shaped according to your design — pathway, patio, or open landscape area. Two 2-inch lifts.
05
Compaction & stabilization
Mechanical compactors firm the DG into a stable surface. For stabilized DG, a polymer binder is applied and mixed prior to compaction to create greater durability and erosion resistance.
06
Final grooming & clean finish
We smooth the surface, refine edges, and ensure the entire area has a clean, well-defined appearance. The result is a natural-looking, durable DG surface ready for immediate use.
Start with a free site walk.
Natural, clean, and built for long-lasting beauty.
Free estimate in 24 hours. Most DG installations grade, edge, and compact in 2–4 days, with a 5-year workmanship warranty.