Calculater
Calculate Material Using Project Dimensions
Calculate Material Using Area & Depth
Calculate Material Using Volume
Result:
Estimated Gravel Cost
Stone Material Weight Guide
| Stone Material | Tons per Cubic Yard |
|---|---|
| Crushed Stone 1/4″ – 2″ | 1.4 – 1.7 |
| Crushed Stone 2″ – 6″ | 1.5 – 1.7 |
| Cobblestones 4″ – 8″ | 1.3 – 1.6 |
| Rip Rap 6″ – 9″ | 1.7 – 2 |
| Lava Rock 3/8″ – 2″ | 0.65 – 0.9 |
| Boulders | 1 – 1.5 |
FAQs
How do I calculate how much crushed stone I need?
To calculate how much crushed stone you need, start by measuring the length, width, and depth of the area you want to cover. Make sure all measurements are in feet, and if your depth is in inches, divide it by 12 to convert it to feet. Then use the formula: (Length × Width × Depth) ÷ 27 to find the volume in cubic yards. It’s a good idea to add about 10% extra to account for waste, compaction, or uneven surfaces.
If your supplier charges by the ton instead of cubic yards, you can estimate the weight by multiplying the total cubic yards by a factor between 1.4 and 1.7, depending on the type of stone. For example, if your result is 1 cubic yard, you might need around 1.5 tons of crushed stone. This method gives you a clear estimate of how much material to order, helping you avoid shortages or excess.
How many square feet does 1 ton of crushed stone cover?
The number of square feet that 1 ton of crushed stone covers depends on the depth (thickness) of the layer you’re spreading. Here’s a general guide:
✅ Coverage Estimates (per 1 ton of crushed stone):
| Depth | Coverage Area |
|---|---|
| 1 inch thick | ~240 square feet |
| 2 inches thick | ~120 square feet |
| 3 inches thick | ~80 square feet |
| 4 inches thick | ~60 square feet |
| 6 inches thick | ~40 square feet |
How to calculate crushed concrete?
To calculate how much crushed concrete you need, measure the length, width, and depth of the area in feet. Then use the formula: (Length × Width × Depth) ÷ 27 to find the volume in cubic yards. If your depth is in inches, divide it by 12 to convert it to feet first. It’s also a good idea to add about 10% extra for waste and settling. If your supplier sells by the ton, multiply the total cubic yards by around 1.3, since crushed concrete typically weighs about 1.2 to 1.4 tons per cubic yard.
What is 3/4″ crushed stone used for?
3/4″ crushed stone is one of the most commonly used sizes of stone due to its versatility. It is often used as a base material for driveways, roads, walkways, and patios because it provides solid support and good drainage. It’s also used under concrete slabs, for backfilling around foundations, in French drains, and for general landscaping purposes. Its size makes it ideal for compaction while still allowing water to pass through, which helps prevent pooling and erosion.
Is there a difference between stone and gravel?
Yes, there is a difference between stone and gravel, though they are often used interchangeably in everyday language.
Crushed Stone:
- Made by machine: It’s produced by mechanically crushing larger rocks (like limestone or granite) into smaller pieces.
- Angular edges: Crushed stone has sharp, jagged edges which help it lock together when compacted.
- Common uses: Road bases, concrete mix, driveways, foundations, and drainage.
Gravel:
- Naturally made: Gravel is formed by natural weathering and erosion, typically found in riverbeds.
- Rounded edges: Gravel stones are smooth and rounded due to natural movement over time.
- Common uses: Decorative landscaping, walkways, playgrounds, and drainage.
Summary:
- Stone = Crushed, man-made, angular
- Gravel = Natural, rounded
Each has its own best use, depending on drainage needs, compaction, and appearance.