When it comes to construction or landscaping the hunt for cost-effective alternatives to traditional paving materials is constant. However, decomposed granite has emerged to capture the attention of the market and offers a surprising range of uses for your garden. If you want to add beauty and functionality to your outdoor space then this versatile, budget-friendly material is what you’re looking for. It might seem like just another path material but the satisfying crunch you hear on walkways, parks, and trails will prove you otherwise.
What is Decomposed Granite?
Granite happens to be the most common igneous rock on Earth, it is forged from cooled magma or lava. Unlike volcanic rock which cools rapidly, granite on the other hand cools slowly underground and forms large crystals in the process. It is the strength and beauty of granite that has made it a valuable material for both tools and countertops for centuries now.
From Mighty Rock to Tiny Particles
Granite is a blend of minerals: feldspar which happens to be the most abundant mineral on Earth’s crust, quartz (second most abundant mineral), and micas. Over time, through weathering and erosion, granite breaks down into even smaller pieces. Along with crushing and screening, this natural process creates decomposed granite in various sizes for its different uses and applications. Another interesting fact is that feldspar plays a role in its own breakdown, as feldspar weathers, it turns into kaolin clay, which can further weaken the rock when it is exposed to water.
10 Uses and Applications of Decomposed Granite
1. Pathways: Decomposed Granite can be used to craft charming walkways. You can choose between fine or crushed granite, depending on your desired texture. Make the material compact and edge it with a bender board or rocks for a clean finish.
2. Driveway: Similar to walkways and pathways, crushed DG is ideal for creating driveways. When compared to the traditional materials it offers a more natural aesthetic and can be easily widened in case you need extra parking space.
3. Emphasise space: Use DG to elevate the look of your trees by creating a clean and finished tree ring which not only adds visual interest but also helps suppress weeds.
4. Patios: Since DG is a cost-effective option building beautiful patios on a budget is not challenging. You get to choose from a variety of colours that complement your garden’s style. Besides, DG prevents puddles due to its natural drainage properties.
5. Mulch Magic: Replacing wood mulch every year can be a challenging task. DG has emerged as a permanent, low-maintenance alternative. It not only suppresses weeds and retains moisture it also adds a touch of elegance to your garden beds.
6. Create boundaries: You can define your garden borders with a strip of DG. This simple yet effective technique creates a clean line and acts as a visual separator between your plants and walkways.
7. Material Matchmaker: DG is known to play well with others! In the sense that combining it with pavers, flagstone, or tiles can give you a unique and stylish patio design.
8. Road: In desert areas with arid climates and sandy roads, decomposed granite can be mixed with water to form a stable and levelled surface for roads. By compacting the moistened decomposed granite, it creates a durable pathway that can withstand the harsh desert conditions.
9. Fire Pit: By using Decomposed Granite as a base material you can create a safe and stylish fire pit area. The natural drainage properties of DG prevent any accumulation of water near the fire pit.
10. Underwater Oasis: Decomposed granite can be used beyond gardening. When it comes to aquascaping DG can create natural-looking underwater landscapes in aquariums.
Decomposed granite is a versatile and affordable material that can elevate the look and functionality of your garden. So, ditch the ordinary and embrace the possibilities of DG!