🪨 Crushed Stone Calculator 2026 - Free Tons & Cubic Yards Estimator
Calculate exact crushed stone quantities for any project in seconds. Get tons, cubic yards, delivery trucks needed, and complete cost estimates - all free. Perfect for driveways, drainage, concrete bases, landscaping, and gravel projects. Supports all stone types: #57, #67, crusher run, pea gravel, 3/4 clear stone. Used by 28,000+ contractors, landscapers, and homeowners monthly.
⚡ Key Crushed Stone Facts 2026
Stone Weight
Per cubic yard compacted (1.4 tons or 105 lbs per cubic foot)
Average Cost
2026 delivered pricing (free delivery for 5+ tons within 20 miles)
Driveway Depth
Compacted in 2-3 inch lifts (residential standard)
Delivery Truck
Standard dump truck capacity per load
👥 Who Can Use This Crushed Stone Calculator?
Homeowners
Calculate crushed stone for DIY driveways, walkways, drainage projects, patio bases, and landscaping. Get accurate tonnage to avoid over-ordering or running short mid-project.
Contractors
Estimate gravel and crushed rock for driveway installations, parking lots, building foundations, and site preparation. Create professional material quotes for residential and commercial jobs.
Landscapers
Calculate decorative stone, pea gravel, and drainage rock for landscape projects. Plan material quantities for French drains, dry creek beds, rock gardens, and walkways.
Site Managers
Plan bulk aggregate deliveries for construction sites. Calculate base materials for roads, parking areas, concrete slabs, and site leveling projects. Optimize delivery scheduling.
🧮 Calculate Your Crushed Stone Project Now
Select your project shape, enter dimensions and stone type, get instant results with complete material quantities and cost breakdown.
How the Crushed Stone Calculator Works
Enter Dimensions
Choose rectangle, circle, or irregular area. Enter dimensions in feet and depth in inches for your specific project type and requirements.
Select Stone Type
Choose from crusher run (base), #57 stone (drainage), #67 stone (surface), pea gravel (decorative), or 3/4" clear stone based on your project.
Set Compaction
Add compaction factor (10% standard for driveways), include landscape fabric if needed, choose delivery method, and select your region for pricing.
Get Results
Instant calculation shows tons, cubic yards, delivery trucks, fabric needed, total cost, and project-specific recommendations for proper installation.
Essential Crushed Stone Calculator Guide 2026
Crushed stone and gravel are foundational materials for countless construction and landscaping projects. From driveway bases to French drains, proper material calculation prevents costly shortages or expensive over-ordering. This calculator uses industry-standard formulas accounting for stone density, compaction factors, and real-world installation conditions to provide accurate tonnage and cubic yard estimates.
Understanding Stone Measurements and Weight
Crushed stone is sold by weight (tons) or volume (cubic yards) in the USA. One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet and weighs approximately 2,700-3,000 pounds (1.35-1.5 tons) depending on stone type and compaction. Compacted stone weighs more per cubic yard than loose stone due to reduced air gaps between rocks. For calculation purposes, use 1.4 tons per cubic yard as a reliable average across all common stone types.
Types of Crushed Stone and Their Applications
Stone selection dramatically impacts project performance. Crusher run combines multiple stone sizes that compact into a solid, impermeable base - ideal for driveways and parking areas. #57 stone features uniform 3/4 inch rocks with minimal fines, providing excellent drainage for French drains and septic systems. #67 stone mixes 3/4 inch rocks with smaller stones and dust, compacting well for driveway surfaces and walkways. Pea gravel offers smooth 3/8 inch stones perfect for decorative landscaping and comfortable walkways.
| Stone Type | Size | Best Uses | Cost per Ton |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crusher Run | Mixed (3/4" to dust) | Driveway base, parking lots, solid foundations | $25-35 |
| #57 Stone | 3/4" clean | French drains, septic systems, under concrete | $30-40 |
| #67 Stone | 3/4" minus | Driveway surface, walkways, compactable base | $28-38 |
| 3/4" Clear | 3/4" uniform | Drainage, decorative, around foundations | $35-45 |
| Pea Gravel | 3/8" smooth | Walkways, playgrounds, landscaping | $35-50 |
💡 Pro Tip: Bulk Delivery Economics
Crushed stone is most economical when delivered in bulk by the ton. Pickup at quarries saves $5-10 per ton but requires appropriate heavy-duty truck and multiple trips for larger projects. Most suppliers offer free delivery for 5+ tons within 20 miles, with delivery fees of $50-100 for smaller orders or longer distances. For a typical 20×30 ft driveway at 4 inches deep, you need approximately 10 tons - one delivery truck load at $300-400 total delivered, versus $500-800 for multiple pickup trips including fuel and vehicle wear.
Proper Depth Requirements by Project Type
Project depth determines both material quantity and long-term performance. Driveways require 4-6 inches of compacted crushed stone - 4 inches minimum for light residential use, 6 inches for standard traffic, 8-10 inches for heavy vehicles or poor soil conditions. Concrete slab bases need 4 inches of compacted #57 stone or crusher run for proper drainage and crack prevention. French drains use 3-4 inches of 3/4" clear stone around perforated pipe. Walkways and landscaping typically need 2-3 inches of pea gravel or decorative stone for appearance and weed suppression.
⚠️ Compaction is Critical for Structural Applications
Crushed stone must be compacted in 2-3 inch lifts to achieve proper density and prevent future settling. Use plate compactor (rentals $40-60/day) for areas under 500 sq ft or vibratory roller for larger projects. Compact each lift to 95% density before adding the next layer. Uncompacted stone settles 10-20% over time, causing driveways to develop ruts and concrete slabs to crack. Never skip compaction for structural applications - proper compaction extends project life by 50-100% and prevents costly repairs.
Landscape Fabric: Essential for Long-Term Success
Landscape fabric (geotextile) installed between soil and crushed stone prevents three major problems: stone sinking into soft soil, soil migration up through stone, and weed growth. Use non-woven geotextile for driveways and parking areas (allows water drainage while providing separation), or woven geotextile for maximum strength under heavy loads. Install on compacted subgrade, overlap seams 12 inches, and secure with landscape staples every 3-4 feet. Add minimum 2-3 inches of stone over fabric - thinner layers allow fabric to show through and reduce weed suppression.
Real Crushed Stone Project Examples
🚗 Residential Driveway
Size: 20 ft × 30 ft × 6 inches deep
Area: 600 square feet
Volume: 11 cubic yards
Stone Type: 4" crusher run + 2" #67 stone
Total: 15.4 tons
Cost: $460-770 delivered
Standard single-car driveway using two-layer system. Crusher run base provides solid foundation that compacts tight. #67 stone top layer offers clean appearance and good traction. Install over geotextile fabric on compacted subgrade. Compact base in two 2-inch lifts, then add surface layer. Total depth 6 inches prevents rutting under vehicle weight. Regrade surface annually and add 1-2 tons top dressing every 3-5 years to maintain appearance.
💧 French Drain System
Size: 50 ft long × 1 ft wide × 18 inches deep
Trench Volume: 75 cubic feet (2.8 cubic yards)
Stone Type: 3/4" clear stone (no fines)
Total: 3.9 tons
Cost: $140-175 plus delivery
Typical French drain along foundation or yard drainage issue. Use 3/4" clear stone only - fines clog drainage. Excavate 18" deep trench, line with non-woven geotextile fabric, add 3" stone base, install 4" perforated pipe (holes down), surround pipe with stone to 3" below grade, wrap fabric over stone, backfill top 3" with soil. Stone allows water to flow freely to pipe while fabric prevents soil infiltration. Never use crusher run or #67 for drainage - they don't drain.
🏡 Concrete Slab Base
Size: 12 ft × 16 ft × 4 inches deep
Area: 192 square feet
Volume: 2.4 cubic yards
Stone Type: #57 stone or crusher run
Total: 3.3 tons
Cost: $100-135 plus delivery
Stone base under concrete shed slab or patio. Four inches of compacted #57 stone provides drainage to prevent concrete cracking from ground moisture and freeze-thaw cycles. Excavate 4" below final slab height, compact subgrade, install geotextile fabric, add stone in two 2" lifts compacting each to 95% density, screed level. #57 stone drains well and provides stable base. Crusher run also works but drains slower. Never pour concrete directly on soil - always use proper stone base for crack prevention and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate how much crushed stone I need?
To calculate crushed stone needed: (1) Measure length and width in feet, (2) Determine depth in inches (4-6 inches for driveway base, 2-3 inches for drainage), (3) Calculate volume: length × width × depth (in feet) = cubic feet, (4) Convert to cubic yards: cubic feet ÷ 27, (5) Convert to tons: cubic yards × 1.4 (stone weighs ~2,800 lbs/yard = 1.4 tons). For a 20 ft × 30 ft driveway at 4 inches: 20 × 30 × 0.33 = 200 cubic feet ÷ 27 = 7.4 yards × 1.4 = 10.4 tons. Add 5-10% for compaction loss.
How much does crushed stone cost per ton in 2026?
In 2026, crushed stone costs $25-50 per ton delivered, depending on type and location. Crusher run (base): $25-35/ton, #57 stone (3/4 inch): $30-40/ton, #67 stone (3/4 inch minus): $28-38/ton, Pea gravel: $35-50/ton, 3/4 inch clear stone: $35-45/ton. Prices include delivery within 20 miles for 5+ tons. Pickup at quarry saves $5-10/ton. Regional variations: Midwest baseline, Northeast +20%, South -10%, West Coast +25%. Minimum order typically 1-3 tons with delivery fee $50-100.
How much does a cubic yard of crushed stone weigh?
One cubic yard of crushed stone weighs approximately 2,700-3,000 pounds (1.35-1.5 tons) depending on stone type and compaction. Loose stone: 2,700 lbs/yard, Compacted stone: 2,800-3,000 lbs/yard. Specific weights: #57 stone (2,700 lbs/yard), #67 stone (2,750 lbs/yard), Crusher run (2,850 lbs/yard), Pea gravel (2,600 lbs/yard), 3/4 clear stone (2,700 lbs/yard). For calculations, use 1.4 tons per cubic yard as standard. Weight varies with moisture - wet stone weighs 10-15% more than dry stone.
What size crushed stone do I need for my project?
Stone size depends on project: #57 stone (3/4 inch) for driveway top layer and drainage, #67 stone (3/4 inch minus) for driveway surface and compactable base, Crusher run (mixed sizes) for solid base that compacts tight, Pea gravel (3/8 inch) for walkways and decorative landscaping, 3/4 inch clear stone for French drains and septic systems. Driveway base: 4-6 inches crusher run + 2-3 inches #67 top. Concrete base: 4 inches #57 or crusher run. Drainage: 3/4 clear stone (no fines). Landscaping: pea gravel or decorative stone 2-3 inches deep.
How deep should crushed stone be for a driveway?
Crushed stone driveway base should be 4-6 inches deep minimum, compacted in 2-3 inch lifts. Proper depth: Residential light use: 4 inches compacted, Standard residential: 6 inches (4 inches crusher run base + 2 inches #67 top), Heavy use/trucks: 8-10 inches in layers. Install over compacted subgrade with geotextile fabric to prevent sinking. Compact each 2-3 inch lift to 95% density with plate compactor or roller. Deeper base prevents rutting, improves drainage, and extends driveway life. Never install stone over soft, uncompacted soil.
What is the difference between #57 and #67 stone?
#57 stone is 3/4 inch clean stone (single size, minimal fines), while #67 stone is 3/4 inch minus (mixed sizes down to dust). #57: uniform 3/4 inch rocks, excellent drainage, does not compact tight, used for French drains, septic systems, concrete aggregate, and under sheds. #67: mixed sizes 3/4 inch down to dust/fines, compacts well, creates firm surface, used for driveway top layer, walkways, and exposed surfaces. #67 is better for driveways (compacts and locks together). #57 is better for drainage (water flows through easily). Both weigh ~2,700 lbs per cubic yard.
Do I need landscape fabric under crushed stone?
Yes, landscape fabric (geotextile) is highly recommended under crushed stone for most applications. Benefits: prevents stone from sinking into soft soil, stops weeds from growing through, improves load distribution, extends project life by 50-100%. Use for: driveways, walkways, patios, parking areas, under sheds. Fabric type: non-woven geotextile for driveways (allows drainage), woven geotextile for heavy loads. Installation: place on compacted subgrade, overlap seams 12 inches, add 2-3 inches stone minimum over fabric. Skip fabric only for drainage applications where you want water infiltration into soil.
How much crushed stone fits in a pickup truck?
A standard half-ton pickup truck can safely carry 0.5-1 cubic yard (0.7-1.4 tons) of crushed stone without exceeding payload capacity. Three-quarter ton trucks: 1-1.5 yards. One-ton trucks: 1.5-2 yards. Stone is extremely heavy at 2,800 lbs per yard. Most half-ton trucks have 1,500-2,000 lb payload - one full yard exceeds this. Overloading damages suspension, tires, brakes and is dangerous. For projects over 1 yard, rent dump trailer (3-5 yard capacity) or arrange bulk delivery (10-15 yards per truck). Bulk delivery is more economical for 5+ yards and eliminates transport risk.
Data Sources and Accuracy
- Stone specifications: ASTM D2940 (Graded Aggregate Material), AASHTO M43 (Sizes of Aggregate)
- Material density: USGS Mineral Resources, engineering references
- Pricing data: HomeAdvisor, Angi, national quarry surveys (2026)
- Compaction standards: ASTM D1557 (Proctor compaction test)
- Installation guidelines: Industry best practices, contractor associations
Last Updated: January 2026
Disclaimer: All calculations are estimates for planning purposes only. Actual quantities may vary based on site conditions, stone type, compaction methods, and project specifics. Always verify calculations with your supplier and order 5-10% extra for compaction loss and waste. Stone weights assume dry material - wet stone weighs 10-15% more. Consult with local contractors and building codes for structural applications.
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