Fine Texture. Volcanic Origins. Natural Performance.
Red Lava Sand – 1/8" Minus is a finely crushed volcanic material ideal for soil amendment, topdressing, and permeable pathway construction. With its vibrant reddish-brown hue and gritty texture, this material is valued by landscapers and gardeners alike for both its aesthetic and functional benefits.
 
Sourced from weathered lava rock, this sand-grade aggregate improves drainage, enhances soil aeration, and blends beautifully with decomposed granite and native soil mixes.
 
Key Benefits & Common Applications
Natural Soil Amendment - Red Lava Sand breaks up clay soils and improves water penetration, making it a popular addition to planting beds, native gardens, and organic soil blends.
Pathway & DG Stabilizer - Its gritty texture and particle size make it ideal for blending with decomposed granite (DG) to enhance compaction and reduce erosion.
Excellent Drainage - Unlike fine sands, lava sand’s porous structure allows for water retention without becoming waterlogged — a key benefit for drought-tolerant landscaping.
Vibrant Color Accent - The rich red-brown tone adds subtle contrast when used in succulent beds, around pavers, or as a surface dressing.
 
Common Uses:
Soil mixes and compost blends
Native and drought-tolerant landscapes
Pathway base stabilizer
Erosion control zones
Decorative ground cover in xeriscaping
Baseball warning tracks and bocce court surfacing
 
Delivered in bulk across Napa, Marin, Sonoma, and Solano counties — from hillside trails to raised garden beds.
 
Material Specs & Technical Notes
Material: Weathered volcanic lava rock
Particle Size: 1/8" minus (includes fines and granules)
Color: Reddish-brown with natural earth tones
Texture: Gritty, porous, lightweight
Weight: Approx. 1,300–1,600 lbs per cubic yard (varies by moisture)
Sold By: Bulk (cubic yard)
Recommended Install Depth:
1–2 inches for soil blending
2–3 inches for surface application or DG stabilization
 
⚠️ This is an unwashed material and contains dust. Apply dry and gently hose down after installation to settle fines.
 
Local Delivery Info – Marin, Sonoma, Napa & Solano
North Bay Materials offers bulk delivery of Red Lava Sand – 1/8" Minus to homeowners, landscapers, and contractors across:
Marin County – Novato, San Rafael, Fairfax, Mill Valley
Sonoma County – Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sebastopol, Rohnert Park
Napa County – Napa, American Canyon, Yountville, St. Helena
Solano County – Vallejo, Benicia, Fairfield, Vacaville
 
Delivery Details:
Minimum: 2 cubic yards
Material is delivered loose pile (not bagged)
Small dump trucks available for tight driveways or hillsides
Same-week delivery often available across North Bay ZIP codes
 
📞 Need help estimating your order? Use our Material Calculator or give us a call for a tailored quote.
 
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between lava sand and regular sand?
A: Lava sand is made from crushed volcanic rock. It’s more porous and nutrient-rich than regular sand, making it better for soil health, drainage, and drought-tolerant landscaping.
 
Q: Can I use red lava sand for topdressing lawns or garden beds?
A: Yes — when applied in thin layers, it improves aeration and helps regulate moisture. It's especially effective in clay-heavy soils found in areas like Napa and Vallejo.
 
Q: Is lava sand safe for pets and plants?
A: Absolutely. Lava sand is 100% natural and safe for plants, trees, pets, and wildlife. It does not contain dyes, chemicals, or synthetic additives.
 
Q: How much lava sand do I need for soil amendment?
A:
For soil blending: 1/4 to 1/2 inch depth
For surface dressing: 1 to 2 inches
Use our Material Calculator to get an accurate estimate for your project in Sonoma or Marin.
 
Q: Will the red color stain walkways or concrete?
A: The color may lightly transfer as dust during handling but washes off easily. After installation, a light watering will help the fines settle and reduce any surface residue.