Rock Calculator
Estimate decorative rock, river rock, or bulk stone coverage. Enter length × width or total area, depth in inches, and optional density for cubic yards and tonnage.
FAQ for this calculator
- How deep should landscape rock be?
- Many beds use 2–3 inches after settling. Drainage features may need 4–6 inches or more.
- Rock vs stone calculator?
- This tool targets decorative/river rock defaults; use the stone calculator for crushed aggregate with a higher typical density.
- Why add waste?
- Compaction, uneven ground, and spillage mean ordering slightly extra avoids short delivery.
- Tons or yards?
- Suppliers quote both—we show cubic yards and US short tons from your density input.
How to use the rock calculator
Rock volume equals area times depth plus waste. Weight follows volume times material density.
- Measure bed length and width or total square footage.
- Set decorative depth—often 2–4 inches for beds, deeper for dry creek beds.
- Tap Calculate rock for yards and tons.
When to use this calculator
- Mulch replacement with river rock.
- Dry creek bed and drainage swales.
- Playground or pathway base planning.
Examples & walkthrough
- 20 ft × 10 ft × 3 in, 8% waste, 95 lb/ft³ → about 2+ yd³ and several US tons.
- 100 sq ft × 4 in depth → scale volume linearly with area.