Aggregate Calculator
Estimate aggregate volume and tonnage for base layers, backfill, and concrete mixing. Enter your dimensions and depth to convert to cubic yards and tons for ordering. Covers crushed stone, road base, and similar granular materials.
Aggregate Cross-Section
How the Formula Works
Convert depth to feet
Depth (ft) = Depth (in) ÷ 12 All dimensions must share the same unit before multiplying
Calculate volume in cubic feet
Volume (ft³) = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (ft) Convert to cubic yards
Volume (yd³) = Volume (ft³) ÷ 27 Aggregate is typically sold by the cubic yard or ton in the US
Calculate weight in tons
Tons = Cubic Yards × Density Crushed stone weighs approximately 2,700–3,000 lbs per cubic yard (1.35–1.5 short tons). This calculator uses 1.5 tons/yd³ as a conservative estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Multiply length × width × depth (in feet) to get cubic feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by 1.5 for tons. For a 10 × 10 ft area at 4-inch depth: 10 × 10 × 0.333 = 33.3 ft³ ÷ 27 = 1.23 yd³ × 1.5 = 1.85 tons. Use the calculator above for any size — it handles the conversions automatically.
Crushed stone weighs approximately 1.35–1.5 short tons per cubic yard, depending on the stone type and grading. #57 crushed limestone runs about 1.4–1.5 tons/yd³; crusher run (compacted base material) is slightly heavier at 1.5–1.6 tons/yd³. This calculator uses 1.5 tons/yd³ as a standard estimate. Multiply your cubic yards by 1.5 to get tons.
A properly built driveway needs a compacted aggregate base of at least 4 inches (100 mm) for light vehicles and 6 inches (150 mm) for heavy vehicles or soft soils. The aggregate base goes under asphalt or gravel surfacing. For new construction over clay or poor soil, increase to 8–12 inches (200–300 mm) and compact in 4-inch lifts.
Gravel refers to naturally rounded stones formed by erosion. Aggregate is a broader term for crushed or screened stone used in construction — it includes crushed limestone, crushed granite, crusher run, #57 stone, and pea gravel. Crushed aggregate has angular edges that interlock and compact better than round gravel, making it preferable for load-bearing base applications. Both are calculated the same way using this calculator.
#57 stone (¾-inch crushed): best for driveways, drainage, and concrete mix. #21A / Crusher run: compactable base for driveways and pads. #4 stone (1.5-inch): large drainage applications, French drains. #89 stone (⅜-inch): small drainage, septic fields. Pea gravel (⅜-inch round): decorative paths, playgrounds. The size affects compaction and drainage — use the right stone for your application.
Crushed stone costs $15–$50 per ton depending on stone type and region. Common prices: #57 limestone $20–$35/ton, crusher run $15–$25/ton, decorative crushed granite $30–$50/ton. Delivery typically adds $50–$150. For a 10 × 10 ft area at 4-inch depth needing 1.85 tons at $25/ton, material cost is about $46 plus delivery. Use the cost estimator in the calculator above to get your project total.
For a French drain or drainage trench, use #57 stone at 6–12 inches (150–300 mm) deep surrounding the perforated pipe. For a dry well (soakaway pit), fill the hole with clean stone. Calculate the volume of the trench or pit using length × width × depth, then convert to tons. Drainage applications typically use more aggregate depth than driveways — 8–12 inches is common.
Order 5–10% extra for compaction loss, uneven ground, and delivery variation. Aggregate compacts approximately 15–25% after installation and traffic, so your finished layer will be shallower than the loose depth measured before compaction. If your calculation gives 5 tons, order 5.5 tons. The cost of the extra material is far less than the cost of a second delivery.