Crushed Stone Calculator
Quickly estimate the volume, weight, and cost of crushed stone needed for your construction or landscaping project. Perfect for driveways, foundations, drainage, and more.
Crushed Stone Calculator Guide
Types of Crushed Stone
Crushed stone comes in various sizes and types, each suited for specific applications. Here are the most common types:
The most versatile and commonly used size. Ideal for driveways, drainage, and as a base for concrete slabs.
Larger stones used for drainage applications, erosion control, and as a base layer for larger projects.
Smaller stones often used for walkways, decorative landscaping, and as a top dressing.
Fine crushed stone used for paver base, leveling material, and as a joint filler between pavers.
Recommended Depths for Different Applications
| Application | Recommended Depth | Stone Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driveways | 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) | #57 Stone | Add 2" of stone dust on top for a smoother finish |
| Walkways | 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) | #8 Stone or Stone Dust | Compact well for stability |
| Drainage Areas | 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) | #1 Stone or #57 Stone | Larger stones allow better water flow |
| Paver Base | 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) | #57 Stone + 1" Stone Dust | Stone dust provides a smooth, level surface |
| Landscaping | 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) | #8 Stone or Decorative Stone | Use landscape fabric underneath to prevent weed growth |
Coverage Estimates
Here's a quick reference for how much area one cubic yard of crushed stone will cover at various depths:
Note: These are approximate values. Actual coverage may vary based on compaction and stone type.
Installation Tips
- Prepare the Base:
Remove all vegetation, topsoil, and debris from the area. Grade the soil to ensure proper drainage away from structures.
- Use Landscape Fabric:
Install landscape fabric to prevent weed growth and keep the stone from mixing with the soil below.
- Proper Compaction:
Use a plate compactor or roller to compact the stone, especially for driveways and walkways. This increases stability and reduces settling.
- Edging:
Install edging to contain the crushed stone and prevent it from spreading into surrounding areas.
How to Use This Calculator
Select Measurement System
- •Choose Imperial (feet, inches) for US projects
- •Choose Metric (meters, cm) for international projects
- •Calculator automatically converts between systems
Select Stone Type
- •#57 Stone (3/4" to 1") for driveways and drainage
- •#1 Stone (2" to 4") for large drainage projects
- •#8 Stone (3/8") for walkways and decorative areas
- •Stone Dust for paver base and joint filling
Enter Dimensions
- •Choose the shape that best matches your project area
- •Enter length, width, or diameter as appropriate
- •Specify the depth of crushed stone needed
- •Set compaction factor (typically 10-15%)
View Results
- •See volume in cubic yards/meters
- •View weight in tons/tonnes
- •Check estimated cost and truck loads
- •Download results for your records
Frequently Asked Questions
Crushed stone typically costs between $30-$50 per ton, depending on your location, stone type, and quantity ordered. Delivery fees may apply for smaller orders. Prices tend to be lower when ordering larger quantities.
Coverage varies based on stone type and depth. As a general rule, one ton of crushed stone will cover approximately 70-80 square feet at a 2-inch depth, 35-40 square feet at a 4-inch depth, or 23-25 square feet at a 6-inch depth.
The density of crushed stone varies by type. #57 stone has a density of about 115 pounds per cubic foot (1,840 kg/m³). #1 stone is around 110 pounds per cubic foot (1,760 kg/m³). #8 stone is approximately 120 pounds per cubic foot (1,920 kg/m³). Stone dust is the densest at about 125 pounds per cubic foot (2,000 kg/m³).
Crushed stone is mechanically crushed from larger rocks, resulting in angular, jagged pieces that interlock well for stability. Gravel is typically naturally formed, often from river or stream beds, and has smoother, rounded edges. Crushed stone is generally better for driveways and construction applications due to its superior compaction and stability.
The compaction factor accounts for the settling and compression of crushed stone after installation. Without considering compaction, you might underestimate the amount of material needed. A typical compaction factor is 10-15%, meaning you should order 10-15% more material than your initial calculations suggest to achieve your desired final depth.
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