Crushed Stone Calculator - Estimate How Much Stone You Need
Use this free crushed stone calculator to estimate the volume and weight of stone needed for your project. Enter your area dimensions, depth, and stone type to get cubic yards, tons, and pounds instantly.
Types of Crushed Stone
Understanding the different types of crushed stone helps you choose the right material for your project. Each type has specific characteristics, sizes, and ideal applications.
#57 Stone (3/4 Inch to 1 Inch)
#57 stone is the most versatile and commonly used crushed stone size. The pieces range from 3/4 inch to 1 inch in diameter. It is ideal for driveways, drainage behind retaining walls, French drains, pipe bedding, and as a base for concrete slabs. It drains well and compacts reasonably, though not as tightly as smaller aggregates. The density of #57 stone is approximately 1.4 tons per cubic yard.
#411 Stone
#411 stone is a blend of #57 stone and stone dust. This combination provides excellent compaction properties because the smaller dust particles fill the gaps between the larger stones. It is commonly used for driveways, parking areas, and as a base material where a firm, stable surface is needed. The density of #411 stone is approximately 1.35 tons per cubic yard. It creates a smoother surface than #57 stone alone.
#2 Stone (2.5 Inches to 4 Inches)
#2 stone consists of larger pieces ranging from 2.5 to 4 inches in diameter. It is used primarily for drainage applications, erosion control, railroad ballast, and as a base for large construction projects. Due to its larger size, it does not compact well and leaves significant gaps for water flow. The density of #2 stone is approximately 1.5 tons per cubic yard. It is an excellent choice for areas where drainage is the primary concern.
Crusher Run
Crusher run, also known as quarry process or dense grade aggregate, is a blend of crushed stone and stone dust that ranges from 3/4 inch down to fine particles. It compacts extremely well, creating a firm, stable surface. Crusher run is the preferred material for driveways, road bases, and building pads. Its density is approximately 1.6 tons per cubic yard, making it the densest common aggregate. When properly compacted, it creates a surface nearly as hard as concrete.
Depth Recommendations by Use
The proper depth of crushed stone depends on the application. For a driveway base, use 4 inches of compacted crusher run or #411 topped with 2 to 3 inches of #57 stone for the surface. For walkways and patios, 4 inches of compacted base is sufficient. For drainage applications, 6 to 12 inches of #57 or #2 stone is typical. For French drains, fill the entire trench depth with #57 stone wrapped in landscape fabric.
Compaction Factor
Crushed stone compacts when installed, reducing in volume by approximately 10 to 15 percent. This means you should order 10% more material than your calculated volume to account for compaction. Our calculator provides the uncompacted volume; add 10% to your order to ensure you have enough material after compaction. It is always better to have a small surplus than to run short and need an additional delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is #57 stone?
#57 stone is a popular crushed stone aggregate with pieces ranging from 3/4 inch to 1 inch in diameter. The number 57 comes from the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) stone sizing classification system. It is one of the most widely used stone sizes for residential and commercial construction. Common applications include driveways, drainage, concrete mixing, pipe bedding, and landscape borders. It weighs approximately 1.4 tons per cubic yard.
How much does crushed stone cost?
Crushed stone typically costs between $25 and $50 per ton, with the exact price depending on the stone type, your geographic location, and the quantity ordered. Crusher run tends to be the cheapest at $25-35 per ton, while specialty or decorative stones can cost $50-75 per ton. Delivery typically adds $50-150 per load depending on distance. Ordering larger quantities often reduces the per-ton price, with significant discounts available for orders of 10 tons or more.
How deep should a crushed stone base be?
For most residential applications, a 4 to 6 inch crushed stone base is standard. For driveways, use 4 inches of compacted base material (crusher run or #411) topped with 2-3 inches of surface stone. Walkways and patios need at least 4 inches of compacted base. Areas with heavy vehicle traffic or soft soil may require 6 to 8 inches. Always compact the base in 2-inch lifts with a plate compactor for the best stability.
How many tons of crushed stone are in a cubic yard?
The weight per cubic yard varies by stone type. #57 stone weighs approximately 1.4 tons per cubic yard. #411 stone is about 1.35 tons per cubic yard. #2 stone is approximately 1.5 tons per cubic yard. Crusher run is the heaviest at about 1.6 tons per cubic yard. These are approximate values and can vary slightly depending on the source quarry and moisture content of the stone.