Use this free stone calculator to estimate how many cubic yards, tons, and bags of crushed stone, river rock, limestone, or decomposed granite you need for driveways, walkways, patios, and landscaping. Supports 7 common stone types with the right density built in. Enter dimensions — get quantities and cost instantly.
Stone Calculator
How to use this stone calculator
- Measure your area. Length and width for rectangular areas, or diameter for circles. For irregular shapes, break them into rectangles.
- Pick your depth. 2–3 inches for decorative ground cover. 4 inches for walkways and patios. 4–6 inches for driveways (with a compacted base).
- Choose your material. The calculator preloads common densities — crushed stone #57 (the most common aggregate), river rock, limestone, decomposed granite, and sand. Different materials pack differently, so the tonnage calculation adjusts automatically.
- Add waste. 10% is standard for crushed stone which compacts significantly. 5% is enough for river rock or decorative stone.
Frequently asked questions
What does 1 cubic yard of stone weigh?
Most landscape stones weigh 1.3–1.6 tons per cubic yard. Crushed stone #57 is about 1.4 tons/yd³. River rock and limestone are slightly heavier at 1.5–1.55 tons/yd³. Sand varies 1.35–1.45 depending on moisture.
How much area does 1 ton of stone cover?
At 2 inches deep, 1 ton of crushed stone covers about 100 square feet. At 3 inches deep, 70 square feet. At 4 inches deep, 50 square feet. Coverage decreases with depth, so double the depth roughly halves the coverage.
What is the difference between #57 and #8 crushed stone?
#57 stone has pieces 1/2"–1" across and is the most common all-purpose aggregate — used for driveways, drainage, and concrete mix. #8 stone is smaller (3/8"–1/2") and typically used as a bedding layer or for decorative landscaping. #8 compacts tighter than #57.
Can I mix different stone types?
Yes, but layer them rather than mixing. A typical driveway uses a base of 3"–4" of larger crushed stone (like #3 or #4) topped with 2" of #57 or #8 for a smoother surface. Decorative pea gravel can sit on top of a crushed-stone base.
Do I need a base under crushed stone?
For walkways and patios, a 2–3 inch compacted gravel base is recommended. For driveways, a 4–6 inch crushed-stone base is standard. Landscape fabric below the base prevents weeds and soil migration.