Stone Calculator
Estimate cubic yards and tons of stone for landscaping, drainage, walkways and garden beds.
This stone calculator converts your project's length, width and depth into the volume and weight of stone you need to buy. It works for landscaping, drainage beds, walkways, garden beds, base layers and decorative rock projects. Enter your dimensions, add a waste percentage for spillage and irregular edges, and optionally add a price per cubic yard to estimate total cost before you order.
Your Estimate
Total Area
200.0 ft²
Cubic Feet Needed
50.0 ft³
Cubic Yards Needed
1.85 yd³
Estimated Weight
2.78 tons
Extra for Waste
0.19 yd³
Total to Order
2.04 yd³
Total Weight to Order
3.06 tons
Based on 27 cubic feet per cubic yard and an average stone density of 1.5 tons per cubic yard. Confirm exact density with your supplier before ordering.
Results Actions
Estimates are approximate. Stone weight can vary by material type, moisture, and compaction.
Common Stone Depths and Thicknesses
How to Use the Stone Calculator
- 1Measure the length and width of your project area in feet.
- 2Determine your target stone depth in inches based on the project type (see depth guide below).
- 3Choose a waste percentage — 10% for simple, straight-edged areas, 15%+ for curves or irregular beds.
- 4Optionally enter a price per cubic yard to see an estimated total cost.
- 5Read your results instantly: total area, cubic feet, cubic yards, tons and total to order.
Example Calculation
Say you're building a 20 ft x 10 ft drainage bed with 4 inches of stone and a 10% waste factor. Total area = 20 × 10 = 200 sq ft. Depth in feet = 4 ÷ 12 = 0.333 ft. Cubic feet = 200 × 0.333 = 66.7 ft³. Cubic yards = 66.7 ÷ 27 = 2.47 yd³. Estimated weight = 2.47 × 1.5 = 3.71 tons. Extra for waste = 2.47 × 0.10 = 0.25 yd³. Total cubic yards to order = 2.47 + 0.25 = 2.72 yd³.
Common Stone Depth Recommendations
Accuracy & Assumptions
- Results are estimates only.
- Stone weight and coverage can vary by material type and supplier.
- Consider ordering an additional 5–10% for spillage and irregular edges.
- Verify all project measurements before purchasing materials.
- Check local building codes and manufacturer recommendations for depth where applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much stone do I need for a drainage bed?
Drainage beds typically need 4-6 inches of stone depth. For a 100 sq ft bed at 4 inches, that is about 33.3 cubic feet, or roughly 1.23 cubic yards before waste.
How deep should decorative rock be in a garden bed?
Decorative rock and mulch-replacement beds usually look best at 2-3 inches deep — deep enough for coverage without smothering plants.
How much does a cubic yard of stone weigh?
This calculator uses an average of 1.5 tons per cubic yard, though actual weight varies by stone type and size — confirm with your supplier for precise orders.
How much waste should I add for a stone project?
Use 10% waste for simple, straight-edged areas, and 15% or more for projects with curves, borders or irregular shapes.
Can I use this calculator for a stone walkway base?
Yes. Enter your walkway length and width and the compacted base depth you plan to use — most walkway base layers run 4-6 inches deep.
This calculator provides an estimate for planning purposes only. Stone density, type and supplier packaging vary — always confirm final quantities with your supplier before purchasing.