Crushed Stone Calculator
Multiply area (length x width) by depth (converted to feet) to get cubic feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by crushed stone’s density (typically 1.35-1.6 tons per cubic yard depending on type) to get tons needed.
Quick Answer
Multiply area (length x width) by depth (converted to feet) to get cubic feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by crushed stone’s density (typically 1.35-1.6 tons per cubic yard depending on type) to get tons needed.
Crushed Stone Calculator
Enter your area dimensions and stone type below for an instant estimate, then see the formula, worked example, and common mistakes.
Enter your values and click calculate.
How to Use This Calculator
Measure length and width in feet; for driveways or paths, measure the full graded width, not just the finished surface width.
A common base depth is 4-6 inches for a driveway sub-base, though requirements vary with soil conditions and expected vehicle loads.
Density ranges from about 1.35 tons/cu yd for crushed granite up to 1.6 tons/cu yd for compacted crusher run, which includes stone dust/fines.
Suppliers publish product-specific density figures that can differ from generic averages, especially important for large orders.
Formula
Cubic yards = (Length(ft) x Width(ft) x Depth(ft)) / 27, where Depth(ft) = Depth(in) / 12. Tons = Cubic yards x density (tons per cubic yard).
Reference Table: Crushed Stone Type vs. Density
| Stone type | Approx. density | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Crushed granite | ~1.35 tons/yd3 | General fill, driveways |
| #57 crushed stone | ~1.4 tons/yd3 | Drainage, driveway base, most common general-purpose grade |
| Crushed limestone | ~1.5 tons/yd3 | Driveway base, walkways |
| Crusher run (compacted) | ~1.6 tons/yd3 | Dense sub-base, heaviest common driveway base material |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using one generic density for all crushed stone types — density realistically ranges from about 1.35 to 1.6 tons per cubic yard depending on stone type (granite vs. limestone) and whether it includes fines (crusher run is denser than clean, screened stone).
- Forgetting to add extra depth (and material) for a compacted sub-base layer under driveways or patios, which is often thicker than the visible top layer.
- Not converting depth from inches to feet before multiplying by area.
- Ordering by cubic yards from a supplier who prices/delivers by the ton (or vice versa) without converting using the correct density for that specific product.
When the Estimate May Be Wrong
Crushed stone density varies with rock type, moisture, and whether “fines” (crushed dust and small particles) are included, as in crusher run vs. clean washed stone — always confirm the exact density figure with your specific supplier’s product sheet for large orders. For driveway or structural base applications, also verify recommended depth with local specifications, since it can vary by soil type and traffic load.
FAQs
How many tons of crushed stone are in a cubic yard?
It depends on the stone type — roughly 1.35 tons/cu yd for lighter crushed granite up to about 1.6 tons/cu yd for dense crusher run, with a common general-purpose figure of about 1.4 tons/cu yd for #57 stone.
What is #57 crushed stone used for?
#57 stone is a common general-purpose crushed stone grade (roughly 3/4 to 1 inch particles) used for drainage, driveway base layers, and drainage around foundations.
What is crusher run and how is it different?
Crusher run is crushed stone that still contains stone dust and fines, which lets it compact into a dense, stable sub-base — this makes it heavier per cubic yard (around 1.6 tons/yd3) than clean, washed crushed stone.
How deep should a crushed stone driveway base be?
A common base depth is 4-6 inches for a driveway sub-base, though specific requirements vary with soil conditions and expected vehicle loads — check local guidance for your project.
Sources and Methodology
Density figures (approximately 1.35 tons/cu yd for crushed granite, 1.4 tons/cu yd for #57 general-purpose crushed stone, 1.5 tons/cu yd for crushed limestone, and 1.6 tons/cu yd for compacted crusher run) reflect published averages from aggregate-supplier and construction-calculator references current as of 2026; always confirm exact density with your specific supplier.
