Quarry Fines, also known as 1/4-inch Minus or Blue Dust, is a finely crushed aggregate blend containing small rock chips and stone dust. This compactable material is ideal for creating semi-smooth, stable surfaces and is commonly used in walkway projects in Vacaville, patio sub-bases in Sonoma, flagstone setting, and under artificial turf constructions in San Rafael. The fine texture and angular shape allow the material to lock tightly when compacted, providing excellent stability and preventing weed growth. It is a top choice for projects requiring a clean, uniform finish and solid base structure.
 
Common Applications
Pathways & Walkways – Creates smooth, compacted surfaces ideal for foot traffic in gardens, parks, and residential landscapes.
Driveways & Parking Areas – Provides a stable, compactable base that reduces shifting and washouts.
Paver & Flagstone Base – Acts as a reliable bedding layer under patio pavers, bricks, or natural stone.
Backfill & Utility Trenches – Excellent for pipe bedding, electrical trenches, and other utility projects requiring fine, compactable fill.
 
Material Specs & Technical Notes
Type: Quarry fines, screened and crushed rock byproduct (¼" minus with fines).
Texture: Fine, sandy consistency with small angular particles; compacts tightly.
Color: Predominantly gray/blue (varies by quarry source in Marin, Napa, Sonoma, and Solano counties).
Gradation: Contains a mix of fines and small rock dust for compaction.
Compaction: Moderate — locks in place when compacted, making it suitable for pathways, bases, and backfill.
Permeability: Low — designed to compact, which reduces water infiltration.
Durability: Weather-resistant, suitable for both residential and light commercial applications.
Weight Per Cubic Yard: ~1.3 to 1.5 tons.
Standards: Meets common local construction and landscape specifications (specific sieve analysis available upon request).
Packaging: Sold per cubic yard, delivered loose in bulk via dump truck.
 
Coverage Per Cubic Yard
~ 300 sq ft 1" depth
~ 150 sq ft 2" depth
~ 100 sq ft 3" depth
(Coverage may vary depending on compaction, surface preparation, and moisture content.)
 
Delivery Notes
Service Area: Bulk delivery available across Marin, Sonoma, Napa, and Solano counties.
Delivery Method: Dump truck — material is delivered loose in bulk.
Order Minimum: 3 cubic yard per order
Truck Access Requirements:
Minimum 12 ft wide entry clearance.
Firm, level ground required for safe unloading.
Lead Time: Standard delivery within 0–3 business days. Contractor priority scheduling available.
Multi-Load Orders: For larger projects requiring more than 17 cubic yards, multiple trips may be arranged.
Special Orders: Quarry-direct scheduling may be required for large quantities.
 
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are Quarry Fines (¼" Minus) best used for?
A: Quarry Fines are ideal for pathways, compacted bases under pavers or flagstone, and light-duty driveways. Because the material includes fine particles, it compacts firmly for a smooth and stable surface.
 
Q: Can I use this material for drainage?
A: Quarry Fines are not recommended for drainage since the fine particles reduce water permeability. For drainage applications, use a washed angular product such as ¾” Drain Rock.
 
Q: How much material do I need for my project?
A: Use our Material Volume Calculator to estimate coverage. As a general rule:
1 cubic yard covers ~300 sq ft at 1” depth.
1 cubic yard covers ~150 sq ft at 2” depth.
1 cubic yard covers ~100 sq ft at 3” depth.
 
Q: Will the fines track onto shoes or into the house?
A: Some loose fines may stick to shoes, especially when dry. Light watering or sealing can help reduce dust and tracking in high-traffic areas.
 
Q: Do Quarry Fines harden over time?
A: Yes — when compacted and lightly watered, Quarry Fines bind together to create a semi-solid surface. For even greater durability, a stabilizer additive can be mixed in during installation.