Crushed Stone Calculator
Find the cubic yards and tons of crushed stone for a base layer.
Estimate crushed stone for a driveway base, French drain or backfill — in cubic yards and tons.
How the Math Works
The Crushed Stone Calculator uses a formula that converts dimensions into tons and cubic yards. The calculation starts with multiplying length (L) and width (W) in feet by the depth in inches divided by 12 to convert it to feet, giving the volume in cubic feet. This is then multiplied by the material's density (in pounds per cubic foot) to find total weight in pounds. Finally, dividing by 2000 converts pounds to tons. The result provides both cubic yards (volume) and tons (weight), accounting for material density variations.
Practical Applications
To apply this calculator, measure the area's length and width in feet and determine the required depth in inches based on project needs (e.g., 4-6 inches for a driveway). Select the crushed stone type to input its density. The formula automates unit conversions, allowing you to quickly estimate material quantities without manual calculations. This ensures you order the correct amount for bases in patios, walkways, or roadways, minimizing waste and extra costs.
Day-to-Day Use
This tool simplifies everyday projects by providing accurate material estimates for home improvements. Whether building a garden path, installing a shed foundation, or resurfacing a driveway, knowing the exact crushed stone volume and weight helps you budget effectively. It prevents over-ordering (saving money) and under-ordering (avoiding project delays), making tasks like DIY landscaping or construction more efficient and stress-free.
Worked example
30×12 ft at 4 in → 120 ft³ = 4.44 yd³ ≈ 6 tons.
FAQ
How deep for a driveway base?
4–6 in of compacted crushed stone is typical, sometimes more for heavy vehicles.