I'm working on a hardscaping project in my backyard and need about 5 yards of pea gravel. I've heard that pea gravel is the easiest type to shovel into a wheelbarrow, which is important because I'll be moving it from my driveway to the backyard. I'm 40 and in decent shape, but I'm a bit concerned it might be tougher than I'm anticipating. Has anyone else had regrets with their DIY projects? Any advice? I've also reached out to a couple of landscaping companies for quotes, but neither has responded yet.
3 Answers
Honestly, I'd steer clear of pea gravel. If you're looking for something that stays in place, it might just turn into a bit of a headache down the line. Consider other options based on what you're envisioning for your yard! Just my two cents.
Don't let anyone tell you that gravel is easy to load into a wheelbarrow—it's all a bit of a hassle! In the end, it comes down to what you need it for and the kind of look you're going for. Just be cautious: pea gravel tends to spread out and can end up in your grass, which can be frustrating. If you're really set on this, just brace for a bit of extra work, and make sure you have the right tools!
Pea gravel is indeed easier to shovel than some other types, but remember that easier doesn't always mean better. It really depends on what you're planning to do with it. A heads-up: the reason those landscaping companies may not be getting back to you is that they're probably anticipating a big price difference between what you're expecting to pay and the actual cost. Charging around $1500 for a spring project is pretty normal, so if you're set on doing this yourself, just be prepared for the workload.