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The Versatility of #4 Ballast in Construction

Our #4 ballast rock, created from pulverized Lime Rock, provides remarkable stability and drainage across construction applications. With stone fragments ranging from 1 to 2.5 inches, #4 ballast refers to crushed rock near the smaller end of the spectrum. But its uses punch far above its size.



Applications & Advantages

  • Railroad Sub Ballast - Excellent filler subsurface under tracks allowing load distribution and drainage

  • Construction/Mining Entrances - Durable surface for equipment ingress/egress of muddy or unpaved job sites

  • Foundation Bases - Angular rock pieces interlock to form reinforced bases for structures to rest atop

  • Retaining Wall Backfill - Permits seepage flow to counteract pressure which could compromise wall integrity

  • Septic System Lines - Ideal non-degrading gravel choice surrounding drain fields and septic lines

The angularity of the crushed limestone allows the #4 ballast fragments to firmly lock together and resist unwanted settling. Though not ideal for bare feet, the spaces between the sharp rock pieces channel flow. This drainage capacity fortifies installations against erosion and pooling issues.


With higher durability and less maintenance demands than smooth gravel, #4 ballast offers long-term performance. And compared to finer gravels and crushed rock, the baseball-sized 1 to 2.5 inch pieces provide greater structural stability where needed. Yet #4 ballast avoids becoming uncomfortably large or unwieldy to work with.


For most home driveways, we recommend the #57 standard sized gravel for typical vehicle use and comfort. But the smaller yet mightier #4 ballast remains versatile beyond belief for construction’s toughest reinforcement, drainage and stabilization challenges.




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