Compacted base: 4–6" (10–15 cm).
Bulk landscape material is ordered by volume (cubic yards or cubic metres) or by weight (tons or tonnes). This calculator gives both, using typical dry densities, plus a bag count for smaller jobs.
Typical densities used
| Material | US tons per yd³ | Tonnes per m³ |
|---|---|---|
| Gravel / crushed stone | 1.4 | 1.66 |
| Mulch | 0.4 | 0.47 |
| Topsoil | 1.1 | 1.3 |
| Sand | 1.35 | 1.6 |
Depth guide
- Base under pavers or slabs: 4–6" compacted.
- Gravel path: 2–3" over a base.
- Mulch beds: 2–3".
- New lawn topsoil: 4–6".
Compacted crushed stone shrinks by roughly 15–20%, so add that when the material will be compacted.
Watch: how it is done
Video by MARSHALLTOWN on YouTube. More in our video library.
Frequently asked questions
How many tons is a cubic yard of gravel?
About 1.4 US tons for typical crushed stone, though it ranges from 1.2 to 1.7 depending on stone type and moisture.
How many bags of mulch equal a yard?
A cubic yard is 27 ft³, so about 13.5 bags of 2 ft³ mulch.
Results are planning estimates. For structural work, confirm requirements with your local building authority and a qualified professional. See our disclaimer.