Topsoil, Gravel, and More: What You Should Know Before Picking Up Construction Materials
Whether you’re building a new driveway, enhancing your garden landscape, or laying a foundation for a new commercial development, the materials you choose—and how you get them—matter more than you think. From topsoil and gravel to recycled concrete and fill dirt, the success of your project often begins with sourcing the right materials.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before picking up construction materials—especially in regions like Northville, MI, where both residential and commercial development continues to thrive.
Understanding the Basics: Common Materials You Can Pick Up
When visiting a construction material yard, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Piles of different materials—some rocky, some earthy, some finely screened—line the lot, each serving a unique purpose. Here’s a breakdown of various materials available for pickup and their typical uses:
1. Topsoil
Topsoil is the uppermost layer of soil, rich in organic matter and nutrients, making it essential for gardening, landscaping, and turf installation.
- Screened Topsoil: Filtered for debris-free application. Ideal for planting beds, lawns, and raised gardens.
- Unscreened Topsoil: Typically used for large fill areas where perfection isn’t necessary.
Pro Tip: Screened topsoil provides better root penetration and water retention—perfect for healthy plant growth.
2. Gravel
Gravel is one of the most versatile materials in construction, used for driveways, drainage, road base, and pathways.
- Pea Gravel: Small, rounded stones used in walkways or decorative landscaping.
- Crushed Limestone/Gravel: Sharp-edged, compactable material great for driveways and as a base layer.
- Oversize Gravel: Often used for erosion control or as decorative features.
3. Crushed Concrete & Recycled Asphalt
Sustainable and cost-effective, these recycled options are made from broken down construction waste like sidewalks and roadways.
- Recycled Concrete: A strong base material for roads, patios, and parking lots.
- Recycled Asphalt: Used in road surfacing or patching, especially where a bituminous base is required.
4. Fill Dirt
Fill dirt is unscreened soil, often containing rocks or clay. It’s used to fill low spots, grade land, or build up elevations.
- Structural Fill: Compacted to support foundations.
- Common Fill: Used for general land leveling or under roads.
5. Sand and Stone Dust
These fine materials are often used in masonry work, under pavers, or to mix with concrete.
- Mason Sand: Clean, fine sand used in mortar or beneath brickwork.
- Stone Dust: Fines from crushed stone—perfect as a paver base or filler.
Pickup vs. Delivery: What Should You Choose?
If you have access to a pickup truck or trailer, collecting your materials directly can save you delivery fees and give you more control over timing. But keep in mind the following before choosing pickup:
Know Your Load Limits
Overloading your truck can damage the suspension and is unsafe on the road. Gravel and soil are heavy—one cubic yard of topsoil can weigh over 2,000 pounds!
Prepare for Safe Loading
Bring tarps, bungee cords, and gloves. If you’re picking up dusty materials like stone dust or topsoil, you’ll want to secure the load to prevent spillage during transport.
Measure First
Know your project’s square footage and desired depth so you can calculate how much material to pick up. Most material yards offer calculators or staff assistance to help you estimate.
Don’t Forget Recycling: Bring in Debris for Disposal
Many construction companies, homeowners, and contractors also deal with demolition debris—which can be both a logistical and environmental challenge.
In places like Northville, MI, responsible demolition debris removal is critical. Instead of dumping materials in a landfill, you can bring them to a certified recycling yard that accepts:
- Broken concrete
- Asphalt shingles
- Dirt and rubble
- Brick and block
These materials can be repurposed into new construction aggregates—contributing to a circular economy and helping to protect the environment.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Project
Every project is different, and choosing the right material ensures durability, efficiency, and a professional finish. Here’s a quick guide:
| Project Type | Recommended Materials | Notes |
| Driveway Installation | Crushed limestone or recycled concrete | Provides a strong, compact base |
| Garden Beds | Screened topsoil | Rich in nutrients; easy to spread |
| French Drains | Pea gravel | Promotes drainage |
| Patio or Walkway Base | Stone dust or crushed gravel | Ensures stability and compaction |
| Land Grading | Fill dirt | Ideal for leveling or raising terrain |
Always consult with a material yard expert or contractor if you’re unsure. Material characteristics vary based on regional geology and supplier processing.
Sustainability: Why Recycled Materials Matter
Using recycled materials like crushed concrete or reclaimed asphalt not only saves you money—it also helps reduce the strain on natural resources. Plus, many municipalities prefer or require recycled base materials for public infrastructure projects.
With construction waste being one of the top contributors to landfills, choosing recycled products is a win-win for your wallet and the planet.
Calo & Sons Construction
At Calo & Sons, we’ve proudly served the Metro Detroit area since 1957—offering reliable, high-quality construction services across multiple industries. Through our family of companies, we offer everything from topsoil and aggregate hauling to demolition debris removal in Northville, MI, and beyond.
Our material yards carry a wide range of materials available for pickup, including screened topsoil, recycled concrete, gravel, and fill dirt. Whether you’re a contractor working on a large commercial project or a homeowner enhancing your backyard, we’re here to provide the right materials—backed by exceptional service and expert advice.
With services like truck rentals with a driver, aggregate hauling, and on-site loading support, we make it easy for you to get in, get loaded, and get back to the job site. Plus, our commitment to sustainable recycling practices ensures that your construction waste is turned into something valuable again.
Conclusion
From planning your pickup to choosing the right material for the job, being informed is the first step toward a successful construction or landscaping project. With the growing availability of various materials available for pickup, it’s easier than ever to get what you need—when you need it.
Whether it’s screened topsoil for your yard, crushed concrete for a solid foundation, or recycled asphalt to resurface a path, you’re investing in both quality and longevity. And by responsibly managing demolition debris removal in Northville, MI, you’re also contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.
Need help or have questions? Stop by Calo & Sons or give us a call—we’re here to help you build it right from the ground up.
