Clear Stone
Drainage aggregate that allows water to flow freely - essential for proper water management behind walls and in drainage systems.
What is Clear Stone?
Clear stone (also called "drainage stone," "clear crush," or "washed stone") is crushed aggregate that has been screened to a uniform size and washed to remove fine particles and dust. Unlike crusher run or screenings, clear stone contains no fines - it's just the stone itself.
Common sizes include 3/4-inch, 1-inch, and 2-inch clear stone. The absence of fines creates void spaces between the stones that allow water to flow through freely. This makes clear stone essential for drainage applications where water needs to move from one place to another.
In Northumberland County, clear stone is used extensively behind retaining walls, in French drains, and as a decorative ground cover. Its excellent drainage properties prevent water buildup that could cause damage to structures or create soggy areas in the landscape.
Key Properties
- Maximum drainage: Water flows through freely
- No fines: Clean, washed stone only
- Does not compact: Maintains void spaces
- Structural support: Provides stability while draining
- Versatile sizes: Available in multiple sizes
Quick Facts
| Particle Size | Uniform (3/4", 1", 2") |
| Density | ~1.4 tonnes/cubic yard |
| Best For | Drainage, behind walls |
| Compaction | Does not compact |
| Drainage | Excellent |
Calculate Clear Stone Needs
Use our calculator to determine exactly how much clear stone you need for your drainage project.
Gravel Calculator →Common Uses for Clear Stone
Behind Retaining Walls
Essential for drainage behind all retaining walls. Prevents hydrostatic pressure buildup that can cause wall failure.
French Drains
The fill material for French drain systems. Allows water to flow to perforated pipes while filtering out sediment.
Foundation Drainage
Placed around building foundations to direct water away from the structure and prevent basement moisture.
Decorative Ground Cover
Clean, uniform appearance makes clear stone attractive for mulching garden beds and xeriscaping projects.
Weeping Tile Bedding
Surrounds perforated drainage pipe to create a pathway for water while preventing soil intrusion.
Infiltration Beds
Used in rain gardens and infiltration systems to store and slowly release stormwater into the soil.
Installation Tips
1. Use Geotextile Fabric
Always separate clear stone from soil with geotextile fabric. Without this barrier, soil will migrate into the void spaces and eventually clog the drainage system.
2. Proper Depth
Behind retaining walls, clear stone should extend from the base of the wall to at least 6 inches below grade, or to the height of any drainage pipe. Minimum 12 inches depth behind the wall.
3. Drainage Pipe Placement
Install perforated drainage pipe at the base of clear stone zones, surrounded by at least 4 inches of stone on all sides. Pipe should drain to daylight or storm system.
4. No Compaction
Do NOT compact clear stone - the void spaces are what provide drainage. Simply place and level by hand or with light equipment.
5. Slope for Flow
Ensure clear stone zones slope toward drainage pipes at a minimum 1% grade (1/8 inch per foot) to promote water movement.
⚠️ Critical Warning
Never skip the fabric: Installing clear stone without geotextile separation is a waste of money. Within one season, soil will fill the voids and eliminate drainage capacity.
Where to Buy Clear Stone in Northumberland County
Clear stone is available from most aggregate suppliers:
- Aggregate supply yards
- Landscape material suppliers
- Building supply centers
- Direct from quarries
Note: We do not sell materials. Contact local suppliers for current pricing and availability.
✓ Size Selection
3/4" clear: Most versatile, good for walls and drains
1" clear: Better flow rates, good for large drains
2" clear: Maximum drainage, decorative use
Clear Stone vs Other Aggregates
| Feature | Clear Stone | Crusher Run | HPB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drainage | Maximum | Good | Excellent |
| Compaction | None | Excellent | Self-compacting |
| Load Capacity | Low | High | Medium |
| Best Use | Drainage | Driveways | Paver base |
| Contains Fines | No | Yes | No |