Crushed Stone Calculator

About the Crushed Stone Calculator

Crushed stone is a staple construction material used for road bases, driveways, drainage beds, pipe bedding, and backfill. Unlike natural gravel, crushed stone has angular faces that interlock when compacted, creating an extremely stable base. This makes it the preferred material for structural applications where load-bearing capacity matters.

This calculator converts your project dimensions into both cubic yards and tons, because crushed stone is often sold by weight. Densities range from 1.35 to 1.5 tons per cubic yard depending on the stone type and gradation. Crushed limestone is near 1.5 tons/yd³, while lighter crushed granite is closer to 1.35 tons/yd³.

Whether you're building a road base, lining a drainage swale, or creating a stable pad for heavy equipment, This calculator gives you the numbers you need to order accurately and stay on budget.

When This Page Helps

Crushed stone suppliers typically price by the ton. If you measure your project in cubic yards, you need to convert to tons for an accurate cost estimate. This calculator bridges the gap, showing both units so you can speak the same language as your supplier and get the best price.

How to Use the Inputs

1. Enter the project area in square feet.
2. Enter the desired stone depth in inches.
3. Select or enter the crushed stone density (1.35–1.5 tons/yd³).
4. Review the total volume in cubic yards.
5. Check the weight in tons for ordering.
6. Factor in 10–15% extra for compaction losses.

Example Calculation

Tips & Best Practices

• Use a mix of sizes (e.g., 3/4" down) for base courses — fines fill voids and improve compaction.
• Compact in 3–4 inch lifts with a plate compactor or roller.
• Washed stone costs more but provides better drainage in drainage applications.
• Angular crushed stone locks together better than rounded gravel under load.
• For pipe bedding, use 3/4" clean crushed stone without fines.
• Keep delivery trucks off soft ground to avoid rutting and subgrade damage.

Types of Crushed Stone

Crushed stone is classified by size: #1 (2–4"), #2 (1.5–3"), #3 (0.75–2"), #57 (0.75–1"), #8 (3/8–0.5"), and screenings (dust to 3/8"). Each size has specific applications, from heavy base courses to fine surface finishes.

Base Course Design

A proper base starts with larger stone on the bottom and graduates to smaller stone on top. A typical driveway base uses 4" of #2 stone, topped with 2–4" of #57 stone. Each lift should be compacted to 95% density before the next layer is placed.

Crushed Stone for Drainage

Clean (washed) crushed stone provides consistent drainage when used in French drains, behind retaining walls, and around foundation drain pipes. The void space between angular particles allows water to flow freely while filtering out sediment.

Cost-Saving Strategies

Buy from a local quarry to minimize delivery costs. Compare ton vs. yard pricing from different suppliers. Schedule delivery during off-peak months (late fall/winter) for better rates. Buying in full truck loads is always cheaper per ton than partial loads.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the density of crushed stone?

  Crushed stone typically weighs 1.35 to 1.5 tons per cubic yard. Crushed limestone averages 1.5 tons/yd³, crushed granite 1.35–1.4 tons/yd³, and trap rock 1.45–1.5 tons/yd³.

• What size crushed stone should I use?

  For road and driveway bases, use 3/4" crushed stone with fines. For drainage, use 1–2" clean stone. For pipe bedding, use 3/4" washed stone. For surface driveways, 3/8" to 3/4" stone provides a smooth finish.

• How deep should crushed stone be for a driveway?

  A residential driveway needs 6–8 inches of compacted crushed stone. Use 4 inches of larger base stone (#2) topped with 2–4 inches of smaller surface stone (#57 or #8). Heavy-use driveways may need 8–12 inches.

• How much does crushed stone cost per ton?

  Crushed stone costs $20–$50 per ton depending on type, size, and location. Delivery adds $50–$200 per load depending on distance. Buying in bulk (20+ tons) usually gets a better per-ton rate.

• Does crushed stone compact?

  Yes, crushed stone compacts 10–15% when properly consolidated. This means you need to order extra to achieve the desired final thickness. A 6-inch layer of loose stone compresses to about 5–5.5 inches after compaction.

• Is crushed stone better than gravel?

  For bases and structural applications, crushed stone is superior. Its angular shape interlocks better than rounded gravel, creating a more stable surface. Gravel is cheaper and works well for decorative or light-use applications.

• Can I use crushed stone for drainage?

  Yes, clean crushed stone (without fines) is excellent for drainage applications. It provides a consistent void space for water flow. Use 1–2" stone for French drains and 3/4" stone around drain pipes.

• What is #57 crushed stone?

  #57 stone is one of the most popular sizes, measuring about 3/4" to 1". It's used for driveways, base material, backfill, and drainage. The angular shape provides good compaction and drainage properties.