A decomposed granite patio or path is one of the most forgiving hardscape projects you can do yourself. The short version: excavate about 4 inches, lay and compact a 2 inch base, then add 2 inches of decomposed granite mixed with a stabilizer and compact again. Edge it so it stays put, water it lightly as you compact, and you have a firm, natural surface that holds up for years. Here is the full process.
What you need before you start
Gather your materials and a few tools and the work goes quickly:
- Decomposed granite in the color you want, sized to your area at about 2 inches deep.
- Crushed aggregate base (class 2 road base works well) for the layer underneath.
- A stabilizer mixed into the top of the DG if the surface will see foot traffic.
- Edging such as steel, bender board, or natural stone to contain the edges.
- A plate compactor (rentable), a rake, a wheelbarrow, and a garden hose.
Not sure how much DG to buy? Our coverage calculator turns your measurements into tons, and our coverage guide walks through the math.
Step 1: Mark and excavate
Lay out your shape with marking paint or a garden hose, then dig down about 4 inches. You want enough depth for a 2 inch base plus 2 inches of decomposed granite sitting flush with the surrounding grade. Remove roots and large rocks, and slope the bottom away from any structure by about a quarter inch per foot so water drains.
Step 2: Install edging
Set your edging now, before any material goes in. Edging is what keeps decomposed granite from spreading into the lawn or beds over time. Steel and bender board both follow curves well. Natural stone gives a softer look if you want the path to read as part of the garden.
Step 3: Lay and compact the base
Spread 2 inches of crushed aggregate base across the excavation. Rake it level, mist it with water, and run the plate compactor over it until it stops moving under the machine. A solid base is the single biggest factor in whether your surface stays firm, so do not skip it on patios or anything that carries weight.
Step 4: Add the decomposed granite
Spread the DG about 2 inches deep over the compacted base. If you are using a stabilizer, mix it into the top layer following the product directions, since stabilizer is what binds the fines together and stops the surface from tracking onto shoes. Rake the DG smooth and crown it slightly in the center so water sheds to the sides.
Step 5: Water and compact again
Lightly mist the surface, then compact it in passes. Dampness helps the fines lock together. Repeat the mist and compact cycle until the surface feels firm and even underfoot. Let it cure for a day or two before heavy use, and the patio will set up hard.
How deep should decomposed granite be?
Match the depth to the traffic:
| Use | DG depth | Base needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Garden path, light foot traffic | 2 inches | Optional |
| Patio or seating area | 2 to 3 inches | Yes |
| Driveway | 3 to 4 inches | Yes, compacted |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a stabilizer for a decomposed granite patio?
For a patio or walkway, yes. A stabilizer binds the fine particles so the surface stays firm and does not track onto shoes or wash away. For a purely decorative bed, loose DG is fine without it.
Can I install decomposed granite over grass?
Remove the grass first. Organic material under the DG breaks down and creates soft, uneven spots. Excavate to soil, then build your base and DG layers on top.
How long before I can walk on it?
You can walk on it lightly right away, but give a stabilized surface a day or two to cure before regular use so it sets up to full firmness.
Will the patio get muddy when it rains?
A well compacted, stabilized surface sheds water and stays solid. Crowning the surface and sloping the base so water drains keeps puddles from forming.
Ready to build?
Pick your color from our decomposed granite selection, run your dimensions through the coverage calculator, and order a sample first if you want to see the color in your own yard. We deliver nationwide from our California yards.