River Rock Archives - A&A Materials Inc

How Smooth River Rock Can Enhance Your Arizona Garden

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

30 December 2025

How Smooth River Rock Can Enhance Your Arizona Garden

People in Arizona like to use smooth river rock in their landscaping because it looks natural, lasts a long time, and can be used in many different ways. In a place where the weather is really hot, there isn’t much rain, and the soil is hard to work with, picking the correct ground cover can make a big difference in how it looks and how well it works. Smooth river rock is a good choice for many Arizona gardens since it looks well and works well. Read on to learn more.

What Is Smooth River Rock?

Smooth river rock is made up of stones that have been sculpted over time by flowing water. River rock comes in a range of sizes and natural earth tones, and its surface is smooth and polished. This is different from crushed gravel, which has jagged edges.

Benefits of Heat and Durability

Arizona landscapes have to deal with very high and low temperatures and a lot of sun. Unlike organic materials, smooth river rock doesn’t break down, fade, or degrade. All stone absorbs heat, but smooth river rock lets air flow between the stones, which helps keep heat from building up as much as solid surfaces do. It can be part of a good desert landscaping plan if you utilize it carefully, especially around plants that don’t need a lot of water.

Saving Water and Getting Rid of It

One of the best things about smooth river rock is that it helps with water management. This is why river rock is so helpful in dry creek beds, swales, and places where stormwater needs to be managed. River rock also helps keep water from evaporating by covering exposed soil. When placed in the right parts of the garden, this can cut down on the need for irrigation.

Arizona Gardens: Design Flexibility

In many different types of landscapes, smooth river rock looks great. People sometimes use it to make paths, borders for gardens, accent areas, and around trees or shrubs. Its natural colors go well with desert plants, succulents, and native plants, making the whole thing look balanced and put together. River rock is also great for decorative things like water features, Zen gardens, and dry riverbeds that seem like natural desert washes.

A Comparison of River Rock and Mulch

Smooth river rock does not contribute nutrients to the soil like organic mulch does. Because of this, it works best in places where improving the soil is not the main purpose. Compost mulch might be a preferable choice for plants that need more organic matter.

River rock, on the other hand, lasts a long time and stays clean. It doesn’t blow away, attract bugs, or need to be replaced often. When put over a good weed barrier, it can greatly cut down on weed growth and the need for continuous maintenance.

A Good Choice for Desert Landscapes

Smooth river rock makes Arizona gardens better by adding natural beauty and durable performance. It can be utilized as a beautiful accent or a practical ground cover. It helps with water-efficient gardening and fits well with the desert environment. Call or email us today, we would be happy to help you!

Landscaping Materials Phoenix by A&A Materials, Inc.

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers Landscaping Materials for your landscaping needs. Call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

Landscape, Landscape Rocks, River Rock, Smooth River Rock

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

17 April 2025

River Rock Landscaping Ideas

Add a natural feel to your outdoor area with river rock landscape ideas. From little pea gravel to stones, boulders and bigger rocks, river rocks attain their smooth, rounded shapes from the water’s movement in natural rivers. Use river rock landscaping to add an organic feel to outdoor features like pathways, edging, flower beds or boxes, gravel verandas, and more.

Below are some river rock landscape ideas in a range of settings and designs for inspiration.

Stone Pathways

Stone pathways combine two sizes and colors of river rock with large natural pavers. Dividers split up mulched spaces from gravel for keeping things looking orderly.

Gravel veranda

Seating areas that highlight a long fire feature and contemporary wicker chairs on a simple pea gravel veranda. Placing landscape edgings made of granite and slabs for steps makes for a slick, streamlined look.

Dry Riverbed for Drainage

When your property has drainage problems, or sloping areas where run-off is an issue, creating a dry riverbed could help, as well as being an appealing to your landscape. Some versions use different sizes of river rock to create a stable bed and are anchored additionally with lush plantings.

Gravel Fire Pit Area

Somewhat like the veranda, except this one features an ending with a fire pit. Placing landscape edgings made of granite makes for a slick, streamlined look.

Patio Container Garden

If you wish for an outdoor garden area but don’t have fertile soil or the time for its upkeep, think about a gravel patio sitting area with potted plants. This one also has oblong wood planters with Mediterranean herbs.

Pea Gravel Pathway

Once your area is level, creating a gravel pathway only requires some landscaping fabric, an optional covering of sand, some rocks or bricks as edging, and a rake for spreading the pea gravel.

It’s a project that can be accomplished in a day and is going to vastly improve the form and function of your area. Pea gravel makes for comfy, user-friendly walking surfaces also.

Colorful River Rock Garden

Your local material supplier may have an assortment of sizes, colors, and textures available for your rock garden, including matte surfaced river rock or gleaming stones, and colors varying from black to white, greys, purple, tans, blue, or even pink.

Pea Gravel Driveway

Gravel is perfectly easy to use material for driveways or pathways and can be easier to maintain than black top in places that freeze during winter. The gravel’s lighter coloring also provides a diverse and somewhat warmer attractiveness compared to asphalt. The pea gravel works well with the larger slates for creating a patio area at the entrance of houses.

Rock Gardens + Groundcovers

A simple and attractive garden design can be created with pea gravel, larger river rocks, and an assortment of low growing groundcovers.

Select groundcovers that appreciate good drainage and don’t require too much water, such as creeping sedums, creeping phlox, creeping bellflowers/campanula, and dianthus. All of these are perennials that can be removed and divided effortlessly.

Weedless Flower Beds

These flower beds use landscaping fabric with preferences for plants and river rock gravel rather than mulch for an appealing look that works for keeping weeds at a minimum.

Not all plants are appropriate to this type of planting and favor a more conventional soil culture. However, a lot of plants adjust comfortably, including a lot of shrubs, and most drought-tolerant plants like salvia and sedums.

Landscape River Rocks Phoenix by A&A Materials, Inc.

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers River Rock for your landscaping needs. Call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

River Rock

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

3 March 2025

River Rock Cost

River rock prices range from $45 to $130 per ton or $50 to $160 per yard. With an average cost of $105 per yard. River rock prices in 2025 are going to depend on several factors, including the type, size, and source of the rocks.

Size of the River Rock: Smaller rocks such as pebbles usually cost less than larger stones or boulders.
Type of River Rock: Premium options such as black river stones or Tennessee river rock r are more costly.
Availability: Rocks locally sourced are typically more budget friendly than imported materials.
Quantity: Purchasing river rocks in bulk usually decreases the per-unit cost.
Supplier: Retailers such as Lowe’s, Menards, and local stone yards have differing price points.

Types of River Rock and Their Costs

Below are some examples of river rock cost and some of their uses. Keep reading to learn more.

Small River Rocks and Pebbles

Small river rocks and pebbles are a favorable choice for gardens, walkways, and focal points. They are cost friendly and available in differing colors and sizes.

Average Cost: $50-$150 cubic yard or $100-$300 for each ton.

Typical Uses: Garden beds, water features, and decorative walkways.

Large River Rocks

Larger river rocks are perfect for landscaping projects that require structural or decorative aspects.

Average Cost: $150-$400 for each ton.

Typical Uses: Retaining walls, large-scaled landscaping projects, and erosion management.

Specialty River Rocks

Alternatives like black river stones, Tennessee river rock, or crushed river rock add distinct appeal however, come at a price.

Black River Stones: $300 to $700 each ton.
Tennessee River Rock: $200 to $500 each ton.
Crushed River Rock: $50 to $150 each cubic yard.

Landscape River Rock Phoenix by A&A Materials, Inc.

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers Landscape Boulders for your landscaping needs. Call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

Gardening, Landscape Materials, River Rock

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

28 February 2025

What Are River Rocks?

River rock’s smooth texture, organic look, and adaptability have made it a mainstay in landscaping. River rock has both practical and decorative uses, whether it is to create dry river beds, line garden pathways, or improve the appearance of outdoor areas. However, where is the source of this material? The natural journey of river rock will be discussed in this blog, with particular attention paid to how it is formed by water erosion, the kinds of rock it comes from, and the geographic areas where it is most frequently found.

River Rock: What is it?

Natural forces have sculpted and smoothed river rock, especially as a result of water flowing through rivers, streams, and other bodies of water. These rocks vary in size, color, and composition and are frequently rounded, oval, or egg-shaped. River rocks provide a vast array of options for landscaping applications, ranging in size from tiny pebbles to massive boulders.

River rocks, which are mostly made of granite, basalt, limestone, and sandstone, are chosen for their strength and beauty. They are popular for outdoor designs because of their smooth surfaces and distinctive colors, which give any area a polished, organic appearance.

What Causes River Rock Formation?

Water erosion, a process known as mechanical weathering, is how river rock is created. Larger rocks are broken down by wind, water, and ice over thousands or even millions of years. When it comes to river rock, water is the primary factor that shapes the substance. Larger rocks collide with sediment and other rocks as they are transported downstream by rivers or streams. The smooth, rounded stones we see today are the result of their rough surfaces and sharp edges being worn down by constant movement and collision.

The procedure is broken down as follows:

First Breakdown: Water erodes large rocks from riverbanks or mountain ranges, breaking them off in pieces.

Transport: The water’s flow carries these pieces downstream, where they continuously roll and bump into other rocks and sediment.

Smoothing and Shaping: River rock gets its distinctive round and smooth look as a result of the erosion of these rocks’ jagged edges over time.

Deposition: These smoothed rocks eventually settle in riverbeds or along the banks as the water flow slows down, making them suitable for gathering and use in landscaping projects.

Where Does River Rock Originate?

Although river rock is found all over the world, it is typically found in areas with sizable water systems and rivers. Among the most well-liked locations for gathering river rocks are:

The Appalachian Mountains: The Appalachian region’s rivers and streams yield a variety of river rocks, which are distinguished by their earth-toned hues and smooth surfaces.

The Rocky Mountains: A wide variety of river rock is produced by rivers that flow from the Rockies and carry granite and other kinds of rock downstream.

The Pacific Northwest is a great place to find basalt and other dark-colored river rocks because of its heavy rainfall and swift-moving rivers.

Southern United States States: Rivers in Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama yield a lot of river rock, especially in gray, brown, and cream hues.

The Effects of River Rock Harvesting on the Environment

Although river rock is a naturally occurring substance, if it is not handled properly, its removal from riverbanks and beds may have an adverse effect on the environment. Overharvesting can disrupt aquatic ecosystems, resulting in habitat destruction and erosion. River rock should therefore be purchased from vendors who use sustainable harvesting practices. You can improve your landscape while preserving the integrity of the environment thanks to the careful selection of our river rocks, which guarantee little disturbance to natural ecosystems.

How to Incorporate River Rock into Your Landscape Designs

One of the most adaptable materials for your outdoor area is river rock. Here are some suggestions for using it in your upcoming project:

Garden Pathways: To create quaint walkways that blend in perfectly with the surroundings, use smaller river rocks.

Dry River Beds: Construct a stunning and useful dry river bed to channel water runoff and give your landscape some texture.

Water Features: Ponds, waterfalls, and fountains that create a peaceful atmosphere in your yard are best designed with large river rocks.

Mulching Alternative: For a durable, low-maintenance option around flower beds and trees, use river rock in place of conventional mulch.

Landscaping Materials Scottsdale, Arizona

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers river rock, rip rap rock, mulch and wood chips for your landscaping or gardening needs. Contact us or call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

Landscape, River Rock

river rock

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

28 February 2025

What is Leach Rock?

Leach rock, sometimes referred to as crushed river rock (57), is frequently used in trenches, septic tanks, driveways, and other locations where it is necessary to help manage mud and water. Any outdoor space can benefit from the distinctive and ornamental touch that this natural and adaptable landscaping material can bring. This rock’s uneven shape and rough texture make it ideal for driveways, walkways, and other landscaping projects that call for a more ornamental and organic appearance. Its combination of earthy, warm hues can go well with both modern and natural landscaping designs. This rock is a low-maintenance choice for your landscaping needs because it is strong and long-lasting.

This rock’s 57 size makes it simple to compact and ideal for laying a sturdy foundation for additional landscaping materials. Crushed River Rock (57) is a fantastic option that can give your project a distinctive and organic feel, whether you’re building a new outdoor area or improving an existing one.

Impact on the Beauty of the Landscape

There is no denying the visual appeal of river rocks in landscaping. In outdoor areas, the range of rock sizes adds a pleasing texture and dimension.

Pathways made of small river rocks can give gardens and outdoor spaces a rustic, natural feel. These rocks are comfortable to walk on due to their smooth, rounded surface, and their size permits easy installation and design flexibility.

River rocks of a moderate size can be used as accents or decorative borders in gardens. These rocks give the landscape structure and definition when they are positioned thoughtfully around trees or along flower beds. Additionally, because of their larger size, they are more noticeable, forming eye-catching focal points that improve the overall aesthetic appeal.

Furthermore, when used as natural steps or focal points in landscaping designs, larger river rocks create a striking impression. Beautiful water features, like tumbling waterfalls or ornamental ponds, can be made with these rocks. Because of their weight and size, they are perfect for building sturdy structures that endure the weather and give any outdoor area a sense of grandeur.

Homeowners and landscape professionals can create aesthetically pleasing and harmonious outdoor spaces that foster a connection with nature by knowing the various sizes of river rocks and how they contribute to landscape aesthetics. River rocks add a distinctive and organic element to landscaping designs, whether they are utilized as borders, walkways, or focal points.

Landscaping Materials Scottsdale, Arizona

Landscape, River Rock

river rock

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

19 October 2023

What is River Rock?

River rock, a dark type of rock acquired from stream beds, is a favorable stone product used for landscaping undertakings. It comes in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, making it a very useful landscaping material. It can be utilized for garden areas, hard-scapes, outdoor living areas, water features, leech beds, and other masonry features.

Furthermore, homeowners and contractors choose this kind of rock for its price, availability, and variety. If you want to enhance your landscape’s practicality and beauty without breaking the bank, then choose river rocks. But don’t just purchase from any supplier or big box home improvement stores. Find a supplier that can provide you with top-quality river rocks, for instance us at A&A Materials Inc.

River Rock Landscaping

Many homeowners are now preoccupied with the expense of maintaining landscapes and lawns. A largely green landscaped area is going to require routine irrigation, lawn maintenance, fertilizing, control of weeds, and other pricey maintenance tasks. This can totally be avoided if you are going to choose a more cost-effective landscaping technique or approach.

One favorable option today is river rock landscaping. This technique has many benefits that you are surely going to enjoy. It can help you save on your water bills, improve the appeal of your landscaped area, control water run-off, and lower your maintenance expenses. River rock is also a less costly option in comparison to other landscaping materials.

Gardens

River rocks can easily be integrated into your gardens. They can be used as a useful aesthetic, used as edging materials, applied around flowering shrubs, or for flower gardens, footpaths, and garden areas. You can also use various colors and sizes of river rocks to create contrasting or complementing designs in the garden.

Leech Beds and Septic Systems

We also sell river rocks for leech beds and septic systems. We have carefully chosen three quarters to one and a half inch leach river rocks. A lot of licensed professionals and contractors in the state prefer us due to the quality of stone products we offer.

Landscaping Materials Scottsdale, Arizona

Landscape, River Rock

river rock

Regular Post

Written by Brian B

19 August 2020

River Rock Cost 2020

Of all the types of landscaping rock options offered at A&A Materials, what makes river rocks stand out above the rest? Homeowners starting landscaping projects have an assortment of choices, from boulders, all the way down to cinder rock. But, river rocks can be some of the most sough-after rocks for residential purposes. Here is an overview of average river rock cost in 2020.

River Rock Benefits

River rocks serve many purposes for your landscaping needs. The first obvious benefit is the aesthetically pleasing element they provide for your waterway or walkway. These are typically the smoothest rocks one can find on the market today. The river rocks have been smoothed out over decades by the natural rushing water in which they are generally found. River rocks used for landscaping needs are either fresh out of water or have been sitting in dried up beds. Regardless of the former resting spot, these river rocks will deliver sheer beauty to your landscaping project. If you are deciding between either adding mulch or river rocks to your project, the fact that rocks won’t wear away over time unlike mulch should make the decision easy. The shapes and sizes of these rocks are seemingly limitless. Remember, the more rare the color of the river rocks, the more costly it will be.

River Rock Costs

River rocks cost about $100-$280 per ton.
Cost per yard can vary a lot, usually going between $130-$910 per cubic yard.
Per square foot, the rocks can cost between $1.24-$8.64.
Average costs for typical river rock landscaping projects: $650.
The high cost could come in at more than $1,000.
The lowest possible cost for river rock projects could float around $460.

Costs By Type

As stated above, the rarer the color, the heftier the cost. All pricing listed below is per ton.

Arizona: $150-$200.
Salt and Pepper: $175-$280.
Cherokee: $150-$200.
Colorado: $80-$280.
Rainbow: $100-$200.

Install Costs

Most landscaping companies in Arizona will likely charge by the hour when installing river rocks in your desired areas. Moving river rocks, especially a large bundle, can be time consuming. Customers should expect fees between $50-$100 per hour for these services. Depending on the load size, manual labor may take up to 8 hours.

A & A Materials, Inc., located in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers native compost for your landscaping needs. Call us at 480-990-0557 for more information.

Landscape, River Rock, rocks

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