Crushed Granite Calculator
Results:
Total Volume: Cubic Yards
Estimated Weight: Tons
Estimated Material Cost:
Understanding Crushed Granite Coverage and Calculation
Crushed granite is a popular choice for driveways, walkways, and xeriscaping due to its durability and natural aesthetic. However, ordering the correct amount is crucial to avoid mid-project delays or unnecessary expenses. Using a crushed granite calculator helps you determine the volume in cubic yards and the weight in tons, as most quarries sell the material by weight.
How to Calculate Crushed Granite Needs
To find out how much crushed granite you need, you must measure the area of your project and decide on the desired thickness. Follow these steps for an accurate estimate:
- Measure Length and Width: Measure the square or rectangular area in feet. For irregular shapes, it is best to divide the area into smaller sections and add them together.
- Determine Depth: For foot traffic (walkways), 2 to 3 inches is usually sufficient. For driveways or heavy-use areas, a depth of 4 to 6 inches is recommended.
- Calculate Cubic Volume: Multiply Length × Width × (Depth in feet).
- Convert to Yards: Since there are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard, divide your total cubic feet by 27.
- Convert to Tons: Crushed granite generally weighs about 2,700 lbs per cubic yard, or approximately 1.35 tons. Multiply your cubic yardage by 1.35 to get the tonnage.
Practical Example Calculation
Imagine you are building a crushed granite driveway that is 40 feet long and 12 feet wide, with a recommended depth of 4 inches.
- Convert 4 inches to feet: 4 / 12 = 0.333 feet.
- Calculate Cubic Feet: 40 ft × 12 ft × 0.333 ft = 160 cubic feet.
- Convert to Cubic Yards: 160 / 27 = 5.93 cubic yards.
- Convert to Tons: 5.93 × 1.35 = 8.01 tons.
In this example, you should order approximately 8 tons of crushed granite. It is always wise to add a 10% buffer for compaction and edge loss.
Factors Affecting Granite Quantity
Several variables can influence the final amount of material you receive and how it performs on-site:
Compaction: Crushed granite, especially "Decomposed Granite" (DG) with fines, will compact significantly when rolled or tamped. You may need up to 20% more material if you are aiming for a highly compacted, solid surface.
Gradation Size: Larger crushed stones have more air gaps than smaller particles or "minus" blends. If you are using 3/4″ crushed granite without fines, the weight per cubic yard may differ slightly compared to a granite crusher run.
Subgrade Conditions: If the ground underneath is soft or uneven, some of the granite will be pressed into the soil, requiring more material to reach your desired surface height.
Benefits of Using Crushed Granite
Unlike standard gravel, crushed granite has angular edges that allow the pieces to lock together. This makes it more stable for walking and driving. It also offers excellent drainage properties, making it an ideal choice for areas prone to heavy rain or for use around permanent fire pits and outdoor living spaces.