Crushed Stone Calculator
Free Crushed stone Calculator for driveway projects. Enter dimensions to get material lists and cost estimates. Get results you can export or share.
Formula
Volume (cu yd) = L x W x (Depth / 12) / 27; Tons = Cu Yd x Density
Multiply length (ft) by width (ft) by depth (converted from inches to feet by dividing by 12). Divide by 27 to convert cubic feet to cubic yards. Multiply cubic yards by the stone density (tons per cubic yard) to get the weight in tons. Crushed stone densities range from 1.30 to 1.55 tons per cubic yard depending on rock type.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Driveway Base Layer
Problem: Calculate crushed limestone needed for a 30 ft x 12 ft driveway base at 6 inches deep.
Solution: Volume = 30 x 12 x (6/12) = 180 cu ft\nCubic yards = 180 / 27 = 6.67 cu yd\nTons = 6.67 x 1.35 = 9.00 tons\nCost at $32/ton = $288.00
Result: 6.67 cubic yards, 9.00 tons, $288.00
Example 2: Patio Foundation
Problem: Calculate crushed granite for a 15 ft x 15 ft patio base at 4 inches deep.
Solution: Volume = 15 x 15 x (4/12) = 75 cu ft\nCubic yards = 75 / 27 = 2.78 cu yd\nTons = 2.78 x 1.42 = 3.95 tons\nCost at $40/ton = $158.00
Result: 2.78 cubic yards, 3.95 tons, $158.00
Frequently Asked Questions
How much crushed stone do I need per square foot?
The amount of crushed stone needed per square foot depends on the depth you require. At a standard 4-inch depth, you need approximately 0.012 cubic yards or about 0.017 tons per square foot. For a 6-inch depth, that increases to roughly 0.019 cubic yards or 0.025 tons per square foot. These figures assume typical crushed limestone with a density of 1.35 tons per cubic yard. Always order 10-15 percent extra to account for compaction and irregular subgrade surfaces.
What is the difference between crushed stone sizes?
Crushed stone is classified by size numbers defined by ASTM standards. Number 57 stone ranges from 3/4 inch to 1 inch and is commonly used for driveways and drainage. Number 411 stone, also called quarry process, contains fine dust mixed with 3/4-inch pieces and compacts very well for base layers. Number 1 stone is 2 to 4 inches and used for large drainage projects. Number 8 stone is 3/8 to 1/2 inch and works well for walkways and between pavers. The right size depends on whether you need drainage, compaction, or a finished surface.
How much does a cubic yard of crushed stone weigh?
A cubic yard of crushed stone typically weighs between 2,600 and 3,100 pounds, or roughly 1.3 to 1.55 tons, depending on the type of rock. Crushed limestone averages about 2,700 pounds (1.35 tons) per cubic yard. Crushed granite is heavier at roughly 2,840 pounds (1.42 tons) per cubic yard. Trap rock is the densest common option at approximately 3,100 pounds (1.55 tons) per cubic yard. Moisture content can add 5 to 10 percent to these weights.
Can I use crushed stone as a driveway base?
Yes, crushed stone is one of the best materials for driveway base construction. The angular edges of crushed stone interlock when compacted, creating a stable and durable surface. A typical driveway requires a 4 to 6 inch compacted base layer of larger crushed stone (number 2 or number 3), followed by a 2 to 3 inch layer of finer material like quarry process or number 57 stone. Proper compaction with a plate compactor or roller is essential to prevent settling. Crushed stone driveways can last 10 to 15 years with periodic regrading and top-dressing.
How much does crushed stone delivery cost?
Crushed stone delivery typically costs between $50 and $200 depending on distance from the quarry and the quantity ordered. Most suppliers charge a flat delivery fee for loads within a 10 to 20 mile radius, with additional per-mile charges beyond that. Ordering full truckloads of 10 to 20 tons usually gets the best per-ton pricing and may include free delivery within a set radius. Smaller loads under 5 tons often carry higher per-ton prices plus a minimum delivery surcharge. Getting quotes from multiple local quarries and aggregate suppliers can save significantly on larger projects.
How accurate are the results from Crushed Stone Calculator?
All calculations use established mathematical formulas and are performed with high-precision arithmetic. Results are accurate to the precision shown. For critical decisions in finance, medicine, or engineering, always verify results with a qualified professional.