Crushed Stone Calculator
To find how much crushed stone you need, multiply your area in square feet by the depth in feet, then divide by 27 to get cubic yards. This calculator sizes a driveway, a paver base layer, or a drainage project, and converts the result to tons and estimated cost.
- Volume
- —
- Weight
- —
How to calculate crushed stone
- Measure the area in square feet (length × width).
- Convert the depth to feet by dividing inches by 12 — a driveway base is usually 4 in (0.33 ft).
- Multiply area × depth to get the volume in cubic feet.
- Divide the cubic feet by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by density to convert to tons.
| Material | Density (lb/ft³) | Tons per cubic yard |
|---|---|---|
| Crushed Stone | 100 | 1.35 |
| Layer | Typical depth | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Base layer | 4 in | Compacted foundation for drainage and stability |
| Top layer | 2-3 in | Wearing surface, replenished as it settles |
| Total (new driveway) | 6-8 in | Combined base and top for vehicle traffic |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much crushed stone do I need for a driveway?
A typical gravel driveway needs a 4-inch compacted base layer plus a 2-3 inch top layer, for 6-8 inches total. For a 10x50 ft driveway at 6 inches deep, that works out to roughly 9.26 cubic yards of crushed stone.
What size crushed stone is best for a driveway base?
Crushed stone in the 3/4 to 1.5 inch range (often labeled #57 or #4) compacts well and is the standard choice for driveway base layers. A smaller, angular top layer such as 3/8 inch minus locks together better for the wearing surface.
How much does a cubic yard of crushed stone weigh?
A cubic yard of crushed stone weighs about 1.35 tons, based on a typical density of 100 lb/ft³. This is close to standard gravel but slightly lighter than dense angular materials.
What's the difference between crushed stone and gravel?
Crushed stone is mechanically crushed from quarried rock, giving it angular edges that lock together for stability, while gravel is naturally weathered with rounded edges. Crushed stone is generally preferred for driveway bases because it compacts and drains better.
How deep should a crushed stone base be?
A 4-inch base layer is standard for most driveways and patios, though heavier vehicle traffic or poor soil drainage may call for 6 inches or more. Walkways and light-use paths can often get by with 2-3 inches.
Sources & references
Related calculators
Last updated: July 2026