Aggregates & Hardscape Calculators

Gravel, sand, mulch and pavers are ordered by volume, weight or piece, so a project needs a conversion from the area and the depth you want. The tools here work out cubic yards, tons or pieces and add an allowance for waste.

Which tool answers which question

• Gravel Calculator: Area and depth to tons and cubic yards of gravel needed, and cost.
• Mulch Calculator: Bed area and depth to cubic yards or bags of mulch needed, and cost.
• Paver Calculator: Patio area and paver size to number of pavers needed, with a waste allowance.
• Sand Calculator: Area and depth to tons and cubic yards of sand needed for a paver base or play area.

Depth, compaction and weight

Area times depth gives volume, and cubic feet divide by 27 for cubic yards. Gravel is often sold by the ton, and a cubic yard weighs roughly 1.3 to 1.5 tons depending on the type and moisture, so check with your supplier. Base material compacts, so order a little extra, and a paver patio generally needs a compacted base several inches deep under a layer of bedding sand.

Mulch and pavers

Mulch is typically spread two to three inches deep, and piling it against tree trunks or house walls causes problems. Pavers are ordered by the square foot, with extra for cuts, and edge restraints hold the pattern together.

Common mistakes

• Ordering by area alone. Depth turns area into volume.
• Forgetting compaction. Loose material settles.
• Mixing yards and tons. Ask what the supplier uses.
• Skipping the base. A thin base makes pavers settle.