How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the total area of your project in square feet. This is the surface area where you'll be applying the aggregate.
- Specify the desired depth of aggregate coverage in inches. A typical base layer is 2-4 inches deep.
- The coverage rate (sq ft per ton) is pre-filled for common aggregate types. You can adjust this based on the specific material you're using. Common values range from 80-150 sq ft per ton depending on aggregate size.
- Click the "Calculate" button to determine how many tons and cubic yards of aggregate you need.
Understanding the Results
The calculator provides two measurements:
- Tons Needed: The total weight of aggregate required for your project in tons.
- Cubic Yards Needed: The total volume of aggregate required in cubic yards, which is often how materials are sold.
Example Application
For a driveway project that's 500 square feet with a 3-inch base layer:
1. Enter 500 in the Area field
2. Enter 3 in the Depth field
3. Use the default coverage rate (100 sq ft per ton)
4. The calculator will show approximately 5.56 tons (or 0.21 cubic yards) of aggregate needed.
Tips for Using Aggregate
- Avoid ordering too little material - it's better to have a small surplus than to run out mid-project.
- Consider ordering an extra 10-15% of material to account for settling or spillage.
- Most suppliers sell aggregate by the ton or cubic yard. Check with your supplier for their delivery options.