Railroad Ballast in Illinois
At an Illinois shed or garage pad, Railroad Ballast helps form an open stone foundation when prairie clay keeps moisture near a loaded area.
- Size: Roughly 1 inch to 2.5 inches
- Grading: Graded to interlock under load while draining freely
- Type: Large angular crushed stone
From $421 for 1 ton, delivery included (larger loads cost significantly less per ton)
Free delivery included
Free delivery anywhere in Illinois
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Weekday delivery, earliest Nov 3
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Everything You Need to Know About Railroad Ballast
Size and Grading
- Size
- Roughly 1 inch to 2.5 inches
- Grading
- Graded to interlock under load while draining freely
- Type
- Large angular crushed stone
Shed and garage pads on Illinois prairie clay can stay soft when water has nowhere to go. Railroad Ballast creates an open foundation beneath load-bearing work, with angular stone that braces together under weight while allowing water through. It is suited to rail track beds, heavy-use pads, and access roads that need drainage along with support. It is a better fit for that role than for a fine, tightly packed driving surface.
Northern freeze-thaw conditions can put extra stress on a damp base, and southern clay can hold water as well. Set Railroad Ballast in the supporting course beneath the working area so it can help move moisture away from the load. On farm lanes or around a building pad, plan the surface separately if the finished route needs a smoother compacted condition. The open structure of ballast is the reason to use it where drainage is needed.
Quickly Calculate How Much You Need
Material: Railroad Ballast
How to Measure
Measure the length and width of your project area in feet
Decide on depth in inches (2" for landscaping, 4" for driveways)
Enter the values above and we'll calculate the tonnage you need
Need help figuring out the right amount? We can help!
Call or text us at (847) 469-1546 and we'll help you calculate the right quantity for your project.
Not sure how much you need? The Stone Calculator has depth guides, coverage charts and worked examples for this material.
Common Uses
Rail Track Bed
Creates a draining layer that helps keep ties seated along the track.
Heavy Equipment Pads
Forms a firm pad beneath cranes, containers, and industrial weight.
Industrial Access Roads
Provides a durable running surface for frequent truck and equipment use.
Large-Scale Drainage
The angular stone leaves paths for water to flow through under pressure.
Why Choose Railroad Ballast
High Load Capacity
Made to support very heavy weight.
Fast Drainage
Gaps within the angular stone let water drain away promptly.
Interlocks Tightly
The aggregate nests together to help control shifting from traffic.
Long Lasting
Hard stone remains useful through years of service.
