Indiana Driveways: Should You Choose Gravel, Limestone #53, or Asphalt Millings?

When it comes to driveway materials in Indiana, three options dominate: crushed gravel, limestone #53, and asphalt millings. Each has its pros, cons, and ideal use cases. Let's break down which material is right for your property, budget, and maintenance preferences.

Option 1: Crushed Gravel

What It Is

Crushed gravel (typically 3/4" crushed stone with fines) is angular rock that compacts tightly to form a stable surface.

Pros

• Affordable: $28-$38 per cubic yard delivered
• Quick to install: Can be driven on immediately after spreading
• Excellent drainage: Water flows through gravel, preventing puddles
• Easy to repair: Just add more gravel to fill ruts or low spots
• Versatile: Works for driveways, parking areas, and farm roads

Cons

• Requires maintenance: Needs periodic grading and fresh gravel every few years
• Can shift: Heavy traffic or plowing may push gravel around
• Dusty in summer: Can kick up dust on dry days
• Rough surface: Not as smooth as paved options

Best For

• Long rural driveways
• Budget-conscious homeowners
• Properties with good drainage
• Light to moderate traffic

Cost

Material + Delivery: $300-$600 for a typical 10-yard load
Per linear foot (12' wide, 4" deep): $1.50-$2.50/ft

Option 2: Limestone #53

What It Is

Limestone #53 is crushed limestone gravel (3/4" minus) that's extremely popular in Indiana due to local quarry availability. It's similar to crushed gravel but specifically limestone-based.

Pros

• Locally abundant: Indiana has many limestone quarries, keeping costs low
• Compacts extremely well: Forms a rock-solid base when compacted
• Excellent drainage: Water flows through without pooling
• Brighter appearance: White/gray color looks clean and bright
• Reduces erosion: Interlocking particles resist washing away

Cons

• Can be dusty: Fine limestone particles create dust in dry weather
• May track indoors: Light-colored dust is more visible on shoes and cars
• Needs replenishment: Fines wash away over time, requiring fresh material

Best For

• Indiana homeowners wanting a local, affordable option
• Driveways on well-drained sites
• Properties that need a bright, clean appearance
• Base layers for paved driveways

Cost

Material + Delivery: $300-$550 for a typical 10-yard load
Per linear foot (12' wide, 4" deep): $1.40-$2.20/ft

Option 3: Asphalt Millings (Recycled Asphalt)

What It Is

Asphalt millings are recycled asphalt pavement that's been ground up. When compacted, the asphalt particles can re-bond slightly, creating a semi-solid surface.

Pros

• Smoother surface: More comfortable to drive and walk on than gravel
• Compacts tightly: Forms a nearly solid surface over time
• Low maintenance: Doesn't shift as much as loose gravel
• No dust: Unlike gravel or limestone
• Eco-friendly: Recycled material reduces landfill waste
• Affordable alternative to new asphalt: 50-60% cheaper than paving

Cons

• Can soften in extreme heat: Indiana summers can make asphalt sticky
• May track tar indoors: Especially when new or hot
• Not as firm as true asphalt: Can still develop ruts under heavy loads
• Dark color absorbs heat: Gets hot in summer sun
• Variable quality: Depends on source material

Best For

• Homeowners wanting a near-paved look without the cost
• Shorter driveways (less than 200 feet)
• Moderate to heavy traffic
• Properties with good drainage

Cost

Material + Delivery: $350-$700 for a typical 10-yard load
Per linear foot (12' wide, 3-4" deep): $1.80-$3.00/ft

Side-by-Side Comparison

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Crushed Gravel If:

• You want the most affordable option
• You have a long rural driveway
• Drainage is a top priority
• You don't mind periodic maintenance

Choose Limestone #53 If:

• You want a bright, clean appearance
• You prefer locally sourced Indiana materials
• You need excellent compaction and drainage
• You're building a base for future paving

Choose Asphalt Millings If:

• You want a near-paved look without the cost
• You prefer a smooth, dust-free surface
• You have moderate to heavy traffic
• Low maintenance is important

Professional Delivery & Installation

At Mann Hauling, Excavation & Land Clearing, we deliver and spread all three materials throughout Central Indiana. We'll help you choose the right option for your property, calculate the quantity needed, and ensure a professional installation.

Explore our driveway installation and repair services. We deliver and install driveway materials across Hendricks County, including Danville, Avon, and Brownsburg.