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An aggregate tonnage and gravel calculator computes the weight (in short tons or metric tonnes) and volume of granular materials (crushed stone, sand, asphalt, topsoil, or mulch) required for structural subbases, driveways, or planter beds.
How to Calculate Aggregate & Gravel Weight
Aggregate volume is multiplied by its nominal bulk density to determine payload weight. Compaction reduction factors must be added for load-bearing subbases under concrete slabs [1].
Aggregate Estimation Formulas
- Volume (US): Volume (yd³) = (Length (ft) × Width (ft) × (Depth (in)) ÷ (12)) ÷ (27)
- Weight (US): Weight (tons) = (Volume (cu ft) × Density (lb/ft³)) ÷ (2000)
- Volume (Metric): Volume (m³) = Length (m) × Width (m) × (Depth (cm)) ÷ (100)
- Weight (Metric): Weight (tonnes) = (Volume (m³) × Density (kg/m³)) ÷ (1000)
Sources & References
- AASHTO M 43: Standard Specification for Sizes of Aggregate for Highway Construction Source Link
- ASTM D448: Standard Classification for Sizes of Aggregate for Road and Bridge Construction Source Link
- National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) Density Tables:National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) Density Tables Source Link
- National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) Handbook:National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) Handbook Source Link
- Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Aggregate Guidelines:Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Aggregate Guidelines Source Link
- U.S. Bureau of Reclamation: Concrete Manual aggregate standards Source Link
- USACE EM 1110-3-130: Pavement Design for Roads and Airfields Source Link
- NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) Soil Density Guide:NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) Soil Density Guide Source Link
- Georgia Department of Transportation Aggregate Yield Table:Georgia Department of Transportation Aggregate Yield Table Source Link
- Texas DOT Pavement Design Manual: Densities of Crusher Run Source Link
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many tons does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
Gravel has a typical bulk density of 105 lb/ft³ (1,680 kg/m³). This converts to approximately 2,835 lbs per cubic yard, or 1.4 short tons per cubic yard.
How does moisture affect aggregate weights?
Moisture fills aggregate voids, increasing weight and density (especially in sand, where water film causes bulking). Standard estimations assume dry-to-damp average density values.
What is the difference between gravel, crushed stone, and crusher run?
Gravel is naturally rounded stone. Crushed stone is mechanically broken with sharp edges. Crusher run (crushed stone with dust) is designed to pack tightly into a solid, unyielding subbase layer.
How many square feet does one ton of gravel cover at 2 inches deep?
At 2 inches deep, one ton of gravel covers approximately 100 to 120 square feet, depending on compaction and material density.
What is the bulk density of wood mulch?
Wood mulch is lightweight, with a typical density of 35 lb/ft³ (560 kg/m³). One cubic yard of wood mulch weighs approximately 945 lbs (0.47 tons).
How is bulk density determined for stone?
Bulk density divides the aggregate dry mass by the total container volume (including voids). It is lower than the density of solid granite (~165 lb/ft³) because voids account for 30% to 40% of the volume.
What size aggregate is used under concrete slabs?
Clean 3/4" crushed stone (AASHTO #57) is standard to prevent capillary water rise and provide stable support without settling.
How much does a cubic yard of sand weigh?
Dry sand weighs approximately 2,700 lbs (1.35 tons) per cubic yard. Wet sand can weigh up to 3,200 lbs (1.6 tons) per cubic yard due to absorbed water.
What is aggregate compaction factor?
Compacting gravel reduces voids, increasing the material weight required by 15% to 20%. Estimators multiply net volume by a compaction factor (typically 1.15 to 1.20) for base preparation.
How do you convert cubic meters of gravel to metric tonnes?
Multiply volume in m³ by material density in kg/m³, then divide by 1,000 to find metric tonnes. For standard gravel, multiply m³ by 1.68.