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Stone Calculator (Crushed Stone, Riprap, River Rock)

Calculate cubic yards and tons of decorative stone, river rock, and riprap for landscaping.

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How to Use the Stone Calculator

1Select your stone type: Crushed Limestone, River Rock, Pea Gravel, or Riprap.
2Enter the length and width of the coverage area in feet.
3Enter the desired stone depth in inches.
4Review the total volume in cubic yards and weight in US tons.

Formula & How It Works

Stone Coverage Formula

Tons = [ (Area (sq ft) × (Depth / 12) / 27) × Density (lbs/yd³) ] / 2000

Calculates the area in square feet, multiplies by thickness in feet to obtain cubic feet, converts to cubic yards (/27), and applies specific stone density (approx. 2,600–2,800 lbs/yd³).

Worked Examples

River Rock Landscape Bed

Input: 30 ft × 6 ft area, 3 inches deep (River Rock @ 2,700 lbs/yd³)

Explanation: 30 × 6 × (3/12) = 45 cu ft. 45 / 27 = 1.67 cu yd. 1.67 × 2700 / 2000 = 2.25 tons.

Result: Volume: 1.67 cubic yards (~2.25 tons)

Limestone Drainage Trench

Input: 25 ft × 2 ft trench, 6 inches deep

Explanation: 25 × 2 × 0.5 = 25 cu ft. 25 / 27 = 0.93 cu yd.

Result: Volume: 0.93 cubic yards (~1.30 tons)

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep should decorative stone be laid?▼

Medium river rock (1 to 2 inches) should be laid 3 inches deep. Small pea gravel should be laid 2 inches deep to ensure full soil coverage without shifting.

Do I need landscape fabric under decorative stone?▼

Yes, non-woven landscape fabric under stone prevents the stones from sinking into the dirt and discourages weed growth.

Can I enter multiple irregularly shaped beds?▼

Yes, you can sum individual rectangular or circular sections in the calculator.

What is the weight difference between river rock and crushed limestone?▼

Both have similar densities (around 2,600 to 2,800 lbs per cubic yard), with smooth river rock packing slightly tighter.

Last reviewed & updated: 2026-03-29

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