Calculator Inputs
Example Data Table
These examples show how thickness and factors change ordering volume.
| Project | Area (ft²) | Base Thickness | Compaction | Waste | Order Volume (yd³) | Est. Tons* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Patio 12×10 ft | 120 | 4 in | 10% | 5% | 1.73 | 2.60 |
| Path 30×3 ft | 90 | 6 in | 10% | 7% | 2.20 | 3.30 |
| Fire pit circle 10 ft dia | 78.54 | 4 in | 8% | 5% | 1.31 | 1.97 |
Formula Used
- Rectangle: Area = Length × Width
- Circle: Area = π × (Diameter ÷ 2)²
- Direct: use your measured area
- Convert inches to feet: Thickness(ft) = inches ÷ 12
- Compacted volume: V = Area(ft²) × Thickness(ft)
- Order volume: V × (1+Compaction%) × (1+Waste%)
- yd³ = ft³ ÷ 27 and m³ = ft³ × 0.0283168
- Tons = yd³ × Density(tons/yd³)
- Density varies by quarry, moisture, and gradation.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select your project shape and measurement units.
- Enter dimensions (or area) and your base thickness.
- Set compaction and waste allowances for ordering.
- Adjust density if your supplier provides a number.
- Press Calculate to see results above the form.
- Use the download buttons to save a CSV or PDF.
Base Thickness Targets for Pavers
Most residential patios use 4–6 inches of compacted crushed stone, while driveways often need 6–10 inches depending on soil and vehicle loads. A common stack is 1 inch bedding sand over the compacted base, plus the paver thickness. On clay or poorly drained soil, adding depth and simple drainage paths helps reduce settlement and frost movement.
Crushed Stone Density and Conversions
Base stone may be sold by volume (cubic yards/meters) or by mass (tons). Typical bulk density for graded crushed stone is about 1.4–1.7 tons per cubic yard (about 1,660–2,020 kg/m³). Moisture and gradation change this, so enter your supplier’s number if available. Use tons for weight-based quotes and volume for truck capacity planning.
Compaction Allowance and Waste Planning
Loose stone shrinks after compaction. Many projects plan for 10–15% compaction allowance so you do not run short. Waste factors of 5–10% cover hand spreading losses, uneven subgrade, and edge trimming around curves. Highly detailed layouts with many cuts often justify the higher end of the range. When placing in lifts, keep each lift 2–3 inches and compact with a plate compactor or roller for uniform density across the entire area.
Excavation Depth and Layer Stack-Up
Excavation depth equals base thickness + bedding sand + paver thickness, plus a small grade allowance to achieve final slope. Many installers target a 1–2% slope away from structures for drainage. If using a geotextile separator, place it on the prepared subgrade before stone to limit soil mixing. Anchor edge restraints into the base to lock the border.
Ordering Checklist for Smooth Delivery
Confirm the exact gradation your supplier calls “base” (for example, 3/4-inch minus) and the density shown on their ticket. Verify minimum quantities, truck access, and dump location to reduce re-handling. For multiple loads, keep one consistent product to avoid compaction differences. Re-check your dimensions and units before exporting a PDF or CSV for records.
FAQs
What type of base stone works best under pavers?
Use well-graded crushed stone, commonly called “road base” or “3/4-inch minus,” that compacts tightly while still draining. Avoid rounded pea gravel for the structural base because it shifts and won’t lock together.
Does the calculator include bedding sand in the stone total?
No. Base stone and bedding sand are separate layers. Enter base thickness for stone only, then add your bedding sand and paver thickness to plan excavation depth and final grade.
What density should I use if my supplier doesn’t provide one?
Start with 1.5 tons per cubic yard (about 1,780 kg/m³) for typical crushed stone. If your yard sells by ton, compare the calculator’s volume to the truck size your supplier uses and adjust if needed.
How much compaction allowance is reasonable?
For most projects, 10–15% is a practical range because loose stone settles when compacted. If you compact in multiple thin lifts and your subgrade is firm, you can lean toward the lower end.
Can I estimate irregular areas with this tool?
Yes. Switch to “Area input” and enter the measured square footage or square meters, then set thickness. For complex layouts, break the project into zones, calculate each zone, and sum the totals.
Why do driveway bases usually need more stone than patios?
Driveways carry higher loads and repeated wheel traffic. Increasing base depth spreads loads, reduces rutting, and improves long-term levelness—especially on weaker soils or regions with freeze–thaw cycles.