materials-guides · 4 min read
California Gold DG Guide
The warm gold DG that shows up in most California front yards — here is exactly how to spec and install it.
California Gold is the default DG color you see across most Mediterranean, Craftsman, and modern-ranch homes in California. Warm gold with tan and rust flecks, it pairs with nearly every stucco and stone color.
It comes screened for pathways at roughly 3/8-inch minus and is sold both loose and pre-stabilized.
Where it shines
- Front-yard pathways and seating patios.
- Around specimen boulders and olive trees.
- As a permeable field material between concrete pavers.
Coverage and order size
| Depth | Coverage per cubic yard |
|---|---|
| 2 inches | ~160 sq ft |
| 3 inches | ~108 sq ft |
| 4 inches | ~80 sq ft |
Pro tip
Plan for 3 inches on any pathway you'll actually walk. 2 inches looks fine at delivery but bares out within a season.
Frequently asked questions
- Is California Gold the same as Madera Gold?
- Similar family but Madera runs darker and more amber. California Gold is warmer with more tan.
Related calculators
Related guides
5 min read
What Is Decomposed Granite?
DG is finely weathered granite — the most popular natural surface for California pathways and Mediterranean landscapes.
3 min read
Stabilized vs Standard DG
Stabilizer costs more up-front and saves annual re-work.
5 min read
DG Pathway Guide
A DG pathway is not just DG — it is a base, an edge, and two compacted lifts.
Stay in the loop
Get new calculators and estimating updates.
Stay updated as Yardexa launches new calculators and estimating tools. One short email per month.
These results are estimates only. Confirm final quantities, compaction, waste, and delivery requirements with Yardexa before ordering materials.