Estimate crushed stone — cubic yards and tons — for a base, path, or drainage layer from the area and depth.
yd³ = (L × W × depth) ÷ 27; tons = yd³ × density
Crushed stone is sold by the ton or cubic yard. Multiply volume by density to convert.
Used for driveway bases, French drains, paver bases, and drainage — depth depends on the application.
For a 12 x 16 ft patio needing a 4-inch crushed-stone base: 192 square feet x 0.333 ft = 64 cubic feet, or 2.4 cubic yards. At 1.4 tons per cubic yard that's about 3.3 tons, plus 5% for compaction loss makes about 3.5 tons.
Crushed stone compacts significantly — that 4-inch loose layer becomes thinner once tamped, so many installers order based on the compacted target and add 10-15% rather than 5%. Ask your supplier whether their tonnage assumes loose or compacted volume.
Density varies by stone size and type, around 1.4 tons/yd³ for typical crushed stone. Verify with your quarry.
About 1.4 tons, varying with stone size and moisture.