Stone Calculator
River rock, 57 stone, and crushed rock use the same volume math with a denser default. Click any i for detail.
Coverage area
Area (sq ft)
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Area
Bed, patio base, or decorative area. |
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Depth (inches)
i
Depth
Installed thickness. Decorative rock is often 2–3 in. |
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Density (tons/yd³)
i
Density
Crushed stone is often ~1.4–1.7 tons/yd³. Wet material runs heavier. |
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Waste (%)
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Waste
Extra for compaction, irregular edges, and settling. |
How to use this calculator
- Enter square footage.
- Set depth in inches.
- Use 1.5 t/yd³ unless your quarry quotes otherwise.
- Add waste for edges and settling.
Results explained
Heavier than mulch or dirt per yard. Decorative river rock and compacted 57 stone still start from the same (area × depth) volume.
Quick reference: stone
One yard of stone is a lot of weight — plan delivery, not bags, above ~0.5 yd³.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| 2 in decorative | ≈ 0.62 yd³ per 100 sq ft |
| 4 in base | ≈ 1.23 yd³ per 100 sq ft |
| Default density | 1.5 tons/yd³ |
| Decomposed granite | Often similar volume, check tons |
Color and size do not change cubic yards; they change tons slightly.
How the estimate is built
cu yd = (sq ft × inches) ÷ 324. Tons = yards × density.
Example scenario
200 sq ft at 3 in, 1.5 t/yd³, 10% waste ≈ 2.04 yd³ / 3.1 tons.
FAQ
Gravel vs stone?
Same math, different default density and typical depth. Use the page that matches what you are ordering.
Bags of river rock?
Convert bag cubic feet into yards (27 ft³/yd) if you must bag a tiny bed.
Base for pavers?
This is quantity. Compaction spec is a separate question for the setter.