Crushed Asphalt Calculator

Crushed Asphalt Calculator

Calculation Results:

Total Cubic Yards: 0 yd³

Estimated Tons Needed: 0 Tons

Estimated Total Cost: $0.00

*Note: Calculations are based on a standard density of 1.5 tons per cubic yard (approx. 110 lbs per cubic foot).

function calculateAsphalt() { var length = parseFloat(document.getElementById('length').value); var width = parseFloat(document.getElementById('width').value); var depthInches = parseFloat(document.getElementById('depth').value); var costPerTon = parseFloat(document.getElementById('costPerTon').value) || 0; if (isNaN(length) || isNaN(width) || isNaN(depthInches) || length <= 0 || width <= 0 || depthInches <= 0) { alert("Please enter valid positive numbers for length, width, and depth."); return; } // Convert depth to feet var depthFeet = depthInches / 12; // Calculate Cubic Feet var cubicFeet = length * width * depthFeet; // Convert to Cubic Yards (27 cubic feet in a cubic yard) var cubicYards = cubicFeet / 27; // Average density of crushed asphalt (RAP) is roughly 1.5 tons per cubic yard var totalTons = cubicYards * 1.5; // Total Cost var totalCost = totalTons * costPerTon; document.getElementById('resYards').innerText = cubicYards.toFixed(2); document.getElementById('resTons').innerText = totalTons.toFixed(2); document.getElementById('resCost').innerText = totalCost.toLocaleString(undefined, {minimumFractionDigits: 2, maximumFractionDigits: 2}); document.getElementById('results-area').style.display = 'block'; }

How Much Crushed Asphalt Do I Need?

Crushed asphalt, also known as Recycled Asphalt Product (RAP), is an excellent, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gravel or new hot-mix asphalt for driveways and parking lots. Knowing exactly how much material to order is crucial to staying on budget and ensuring your project is completed correctly.

The Calculation Formula

Calculating crushed asphalt involves three primary dimensions: length, width, and depth. Because most suppliers sell asphalt by the ton, we must first determine the volume and then convert it to weight.

1. Calculate Square Footage: Length (ft) × Width (ft) = Square Feet.
2. Determine Cubic Feet: Square Feet × [Depth (inches) / 12] = Cubic Feet.
3. Convert to Cubic Yards: Cubic Feet / 27 = Cubic Yards.
4. Convert to Tons: On average, crushed asphalt weighs about 1.5 tons per cubic yard.

Realistic Example: A Standard Driveway

Suppose you are surfacing a driveway that is 50 feet long and 20 feet wide. You want a solid base layer of 4 inches of crushed asphalt.

• Area: 50 × 20 = 1,000 sq. ft.
• Volume (Feet): 1,000 × (4 / 12) = 333.33 cubic feet.
• Volume (Yards): 333.33 / 27 = 12.35 cubic yards.
• Weight (Tons): 12.35 × 1.5 = 18.53 Tons.

Why Use Crushed Asphalt (RAP)?

Recycled asphalt is produced by milling existing asphalt pavements. It contains original bitumen (tar), which helps the material bond together when compacted, especially in warmer temperatures. This creates a surface that is more stable than traditional gravel but significantly cheaper than a fresh asphalt pour.

Installation Tips for Best Results

To get the most out of your crushed asphalt project, follow these professional tips:

• Preparation: Clear the area of vegetation and loose topsoil before laying the material.
• Compaction is Key: Unlike gravel, crushed asphalt performs best when heavily compacted with a vibratory roller or plate compactor.
• Heat Helps: If possible, install RAP during the summer months. The heat softens the residual oils, helping the pieces fuse together into a semi-solid surface.
• Drainage: Always ensure the area is graded with a slight slope (1-2%) to prevent water from pooling, which can erode the material over time.

Estimating Costs

The price of crushed asphalt varies by region and proximity to a milling site. Typically, it ranges from $10 to $20 per ton at the yard. Delivery fees often apply and are usually calculated based on the distance from the quarry or recycling center. Using our calculator above, you can input your local rate to get a precise estimate for your total project expenditure.