Frequently Asked Questions

General Products & Ordering

Q: What products does A A & Bob Allen, Inc. offer?
A: We supply landscape materials, decorative rock, sand, gravel, soil, mulch, construction aggregates, masonry materials, tile supplies, sealers, tools, and specialty contractor products for residential and commercial projects.
Q: Do you sell to homeowners or only contractors?
A: We serve both. Contractors benefit from bulk pricing and volume availability, while homeowners can purchase smaller quantities for DIY or landscaping projects.
Q: Do you offer bulk delivery?
A: Yes. We provide delivery for soil, gravel, rock, sand, mulch, and other bulk materials to jobsites, homes, and commercial properties throughout the Stockton area.
Q: Can I pick up materials myself?
A: Absolutely. Our yard is set up for quick load-outs so customers can pick up materials using trucks or trailers.

Q: What is the difference between gravel, crushed rock, and road base?
A: Gravel is typically rounded stone for drainage and decoration. Crushed rock is angular for compaction and stability. Road base is a blended aggregate designed for structural support under paving.
Q: Which soil is best for planting?
A: Garden mix or planter mix is best for planting. Loam blends work well for lawns and general landscaping, while fill dirt is best for grading and leveling—not planting.
Q: Do you carry decorative rock in different sizes and colors?
A: Yes. We stock multiple rock sizes, colors, and textures including cobbles, crushed rock, lava rock, DG, and flagstone for landscaping and hardscape projects.

Q: What setting materials do I need for tile installation?
A: Most tile installations require thinset mortar, spacers, leveling compounds, backer pads, and sealers. The exact products depend on tile type and substrate.
Q: Do you sell professional masonry tools?
A: Yes. We carry floats, trowels, mud boxes, mortar hoes, sponges, and other contractor-grade masonry tools designed for durability and jobsite performance.
Q: What is the purpose of plaster sand vs regular sand?
A: Plaster sand is finely graded for smooth finishes in stucco or masonry. Regular sand is coarser and used for concrete, fill, or drainage.

Q: Do I need to seal tile or stone?
A: Most natural stone and grout should be sealed to prevent staining, moisture intrusion, and discoloration. Sealers extend surface life and simplify maintenance.
Q: What’s the difference between penetrating sealers and surface sealers?
A: Penetrating sealers absorb into porous surfaces for invisible protection. Surface sealers create a visible protective coating and may add sheen.

Q: Do you carry masking and surface protection materials?
A: Yes. We stock masking tape, rosin paper, plastic sheeting, and jobsite protection materials used during painting, remodeling, and construction.
Q: Do you sell specialty contractor tools?
A: We carry staple guns, spacers, wedges, polishing pads, diamond blades, and other professional tools used by tile installers, masons, and builders.

Q: Do you offer contractor pricing or bulk discounts?
A: Yes. Contractors, builders, and repeat customers can receive volume pricing depending on order size and material type.
Q: Are your products always in stock?
A: We maintain large inventory levels, but availability may vary by season and demand. Calling ahead is recommended for large orders.

Q: What areas do you serve?
A: We primarily serve Stockton and surrounding communities, with delivery available throughout the region depending on order size.
Q: Can your team help me choose the right material?
A: Yes. Our staff can recommend the best materials based on your project type, budget, and installation requirements.