The Ultimate Guide to Sands & Gravel: Build Better Landscapes
When it comes to landscaping, beauty begins from the ground up, and nothing forms a stronger foundation than high-quality sands and gravel. At Gauld Nurseries, we offer a wide selection of premium materials to help you build outdoor spaces that are as durable as they are stunning.
Whether you’re laying the base for a patio, improving drainage, or adding decorative flair to your garden, choosing the right material makes all the difference.
Click on these links to learn more about each option:
Gauld Nurseries is your go-to destination for high-quality sands and gravel. Let us help you lay the groundwork for a beautiful and functional outdoor space!
1. Why Sand and Gravel Matter in Landscaping
Sands and gravel may seem simple, but they’re essential elements in the structure, style, and longevity of any landscape project.
From driveways and patios to garden paths, fire pits, and drainage systems, these foundational materials help create spaces that are both functional and beautiful.
Structurally, they provide a stable base for pavers, walkways, and retaining walls, preventing uneven settling and erosion over time.
Aesthetically, they add contrast, texture, and definition - whether it’s the crisp lines of crushed stone or the organic curves of river rock.
Functionally, they improve drainage, reduce runoff, and protect plant roots from excess moisture.
At Gauld Nurseries, we don’t just sell sands and gravel - we help you find the right material for the job.
Whether you’re working with clay soil, planning a decorative garden border, or building a high-traffic pathway, our experienced team will match your project to the perfect product, tailored to your landscape’s needs and your design goals.
2. Play Sand
Play sand is specially washed and screened to be safe and gentle, making it ideal for children’s sandboxes, play areas, and sensory gardens.
Its smooth, dust-free texture also makes it perfect for small decorative features or creating naturalistic spaces where safety and cleanliness are top priorities.
Best for: Sandboxes, playgrounds, outdoor play areas, and sensory zones in gardens or daycare centers.
Benefits:
Safe and non-toxic for children and pets
Smooth, dust-free texture for comfort and cleanliness
Easy to shape, mold, and level for creative or structural use
Tip: Add a border around play areas to contain sand, reduce mess, and keep it looking neat all season long.
3. Mason Sand
Mason sand has a fine, consistent texture with just enough grit to provide strength without sacrificing a smooth finish.
It’s commonly used in mortar for brick and stonework, and it’s excellent for preparing level surfaces beneath pavers, pool liners, or even artificial turf.
Best for: Mixing with mortar, bedding for patios, pools, and anywhere a smooth, stable base is needed.
Benefits:
Uniform texture for professional-grade finishes
Excellent for bonding bricks or stones
Provides a smooth yet supportive base layer
Ideal for patios, walkways, or hardscapes that require both beauty and strength underneath.
4. Utility Sand
Utility sand is a practical, cost-effective material with countless uses across landscaping and construction.
From leveling uneven surfaces and filling low spots to providing sub-base support and improving drainage, utility sand brings flexibility to every phase of your outdoor project.
Best for: Drainage improvements, filling holes, leveling foundations, and basic hardscape prep.
Benefits:
Affordable and multipurpose
Ideal for slope correction and water flow management
Adds stability beneath gravel, pavers, and topsoil
Pro Tip: Use utility sand beneath natural stone or patio slabs to create a smoother, more even final surface and prevent long-term shifting.
5. Pea Gravel
Pea gravel is made up of rounded, naturally smoothed stones roughly the size of peas.
It’s ideal for enhancing outdoor aesthetics while maintaining function.
Its comfortable feel underfoot makes it a go-to for garden paths and pet-friendly spaces, while its superior drainage makes it a smart choice for areas with heavy rainfall.
Best for: Garden paths, dog runs, playgrounds, firepit areas, and decorative ground cover.
Benefits:
Provides excellent drainage, even in heavy rain
Soft to walk on and safe for kids and pets
Adds a clean, polished look to any outdoor space
Design Idea: Pair pea gravel with large natural stepping stones for a beautiful, low-maintenance walkway with a modern touch.
6. River Stone
River stone is a landscape favourite thanks to its smooth, rounded appearance and beautiful variety of natural colours.
These stones are perfect for adding organic charm and texture to your design.
Because they’re heavier and less likely to shift, river stones are a great mulch alternative for sloped beds or areas prone to runoff.
Best for: Water features, dry creek beds, garden borders, and erosion control.
Benefits:
Eye-catching, natural texture and colour
Durable and weather-resistant
Helps prevent soil erosion in sloped or exposed areas
Tip: Use river stone around ponds or fountains to create a serene, natural look with minimal maintenance.
7. Crushed Stone
Crushed stone is a hard-wearing aggregate made by breaking down larger rocks into sharp, angular pieces.
It’s ideal for structural applications and heavy-use areas because it compacts tightly and drains efficiently.
Crushed stone is often used for driveways, gravel pads, and as a base layer for retaining walls and patios.
Best for: Driveways, parking pads, road base, and sub-surface foundations.
Benefits:
Superior load-bearing capability
Controls water flow and prevents puddling
Long-lasting and low-maintenance surface
Use crushed stone under interlock or concrete to ensure stability and extend the life of your hardscape.
8. HPB (High Performance Bedding)
High Performance Bedding (HPB) is a clear, angular limestone chip that’s engineered to provide the perfect balance of drainage and load support.
Unlike traditional gravel, HPB doesn’t require compaction and won’t shift over time, making it the preferred base for precision patio or walkway projects.
Best for: Patios, walkways, retaining wall bases, and flagstone installations.
Benefits:
Exceptional drainage for water-sensitive areas
No compaction required—saves time and effort
Provides a level, stable surface that resists settling
Perfect for patios where long-term drainage and stability are a must.
Why Choose Gauld Nurseries for Sands & Gravel
When you choose sand or gravel from Gauld Nurseries, you're not just getting materials—you’re getting trusted local expertise and high-quality products tailored to Southern Ontario landscapes.
Reliable performance for both structural and decorative projects
Locally sourced materials compatible with Niagara’s soil and weather
Expert guidance from a team that understands your vision and project needs
Whether you’re a seasoned landscaper or a weekend warrior, we’re here to help you get it done right.
Come explore our full selection of sands and gravel at Gauld Nurseries. Our friendly team is ready to help you select the right material and arrange for pickup or delivery.
Build a better base. Create a lasting impression.
Contact us now or stop by the nursery to get your project off to a strong start.
“We recently completed a front yard and back yard refresh with Paula @ Gauld Nurseries & Landscaping.
Have to say the installation crew are simply outstanding. They arrived early morning as expected and proceeded with their work in an organized and earnest fashion. I was kept informed throughout the day of their progress and was kindly prompted to ask questions. They worked together diligently and well, and were conscientious and mindful of our property. Most impressive of all was that they were so quiet we hardly noticed their dutiful presence.
Thanks so much, Paula! Please keep up the excellent work in beautifying our community with glorious landscapes.”
