Estimate stone weight fast for tidy garden deliveries. Order confidently with waste and thickness included today.
| Project | Area | Thickness | Stone | Waste | Estimated short tons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garden path | 80 ft² | 1.25 in | Sandstone | 10% | ~0.60 |
| Patio pad | 12 × 10 ft | 1.50 in | Limestone | 12% | ~1.30 |
| Round sitting area | 10 ft diameter | 2.00 in | Slate | 15% | ~1.12 |
Area = Length × WidthArea = π × (Diameter ÷ 2)²Volume = Area × ThicknessWeight = Volume × Density × (1 + Waste + Base)Flagstone is typically priced by weight, yet most designs start with area. Converting square footage into tonnage helps you confirm truck capacity, delivery access, and unloading time. It also reduces the risk of under-ordering, which can lead to mismatched color lots and costly return trips. A clear tonnage estimate supports accurate budgeting, because delivery fees and handling equipment are often weight-based.
Walkways often perform well with 1.0–1.5 inch stone, while patios commonly use 1.5–2.0 inches for better load distribution. Steps, caps, and edging may require thicker pieces. Because volume scales linearly with thickness, moving from 1.25 to 1.75 inches increases required weight by about 40% for the same area. When thickness varies, use an average and add waste to cover outliers.
Stone density varies by quarry, porosity, and mineral content. A lighter sandstone may average near 145 lb/ft³, whereas basalt can be close to 190 lb/ft³. Using the correct density improves pallet counts and handling plans. If your supplier provides weight per pallet or weight per square foot at a stated thickness, use that data for best accuracy. For blended pallets, ask whether weights are net stone or include pallet and banding.
Professional takeoffs include waste for trimming, edge fitting, and occasional breakage during transport and placement. Simple rectangular layouts may need 7–10%. Curves, tight borders, and random patterns typically need 12–15% because offcuts are harder to reuse. If you expect heavy shaping or many joints, add a conservative buffer to protect your schedule. Keeping extra pieces also helps future repairs if a stone cracks.
Tonnage affects delivery method and site logistics. Many suppliers palletize near one short ton per pallet, and placement may require a liftgate or forklift access. Confirm driveway width, turning radius, overhead clearance, and soil firmness. Moisture can add weight, and thickness tolerances can shift totals. Plan a staging zone close to the work area to reduce wheelbarrow trips and minimize stone damage. If access is limited, consider smaller drops or a curbside placement plan to keep pathways clear and protect finished beds.
It estimates flagstone weight only. Use the optional compaction/base factor to add a buffer, or calculate gravel separately using base depth and area for a full materials list.
Many U.S. suppliers quote short tons (2,000 lb). Many other regions use metric tonnes (1,000 kg). This calculator shows both so you can match your supplier’s pricing format.
Presets are typical planning values. For purchasing, the best accuracy comes from your supplier’s stated density or pallet weights. Enter a custom density when you have verified data.
For curves, stepping patterns, and tight borders, start around 12–15%. If you expect many custom cuts or complex joints, increase the waste factor to avoid shortages near completion.
Thickness controls volume. Doubling thickness doubles the stone volume and weight for the same area. Measure average thickness of the delivered stone, not only the nominal listing.
Yes. Measure each section and add areas together, then enter the total. For mixed thicknesses or stone types, run separate calculations and combine results for ordering.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.