Stone Calculator

Coverage depends on stone size and depth. Small decorative gravel at 2-3 inches covers about 100 sq ft (9 m²) per ton. Large river rocks at 3-4 inches cover 60-80 sq ft (6-7 m²) per ton. Flagstone for patios requires about 100 lb per square foot (500 kg/m²). Always order 10-15% extra for irregular shapes and settling after installation.

For decorative ground cover, 2-3 inches (5-8cm) is sufficient. Walkways need 3-4 inches (8-10cm). Drainage applications require 4-8 inches (10-20cm). Stone over landscape fabric can be thinner. Larger stones (3"+) need deeper application to stay in place. In high-traffic areas, use 4+ inches with compactable base underneath for stability.

Decorative stone prices: USA $30-150/ton; UK £40-120/tonne; EU €35-100/tonne; Australia A$60-200/tonne. Basic gravel is cheapest; river rock, Mexican beach pebbles, and colored stones cost 2-5× more. Delivery adds $50-150. Bagged stone at retail costs significantly more—bulk delivery is economical for projects over 2 tons.

Pea gravel (3/8") works for walkways and patios—smooth underfoot but shifts. River rock (1-3") is decorative but harder to walk on. Crushed stone (3/4") compacts well for driveways and bases. Decomposed granite creates natural-looking, semi-stable paths. Flagstone for patios and stepping stones. Choose based on function, aesthetics, and maintenance preference.

Yes, landscape fabric under decorative stone prevents stones from sinking into soil, reduces weed growth, and separates stone from underlying dirt. Use commercial-grade woven fabric, not plastic sheeting (which doesn't drain). Overlap seams 6 inches and stake edges. Stone over fabric requires less depth and stays cleaner. Skip fabric only if you want stone to eventually integrate with soil.

Divide irregular areas into simple shapes (rectangles, triangles) and calculate each separately. For curved beds, multiply max length × max width × 0.8 as approximation. For kidney shapes, measure at widest points and multiply by 0.75. Add 15-20% extra for irregular areas vs 10% for rectangles. When in doubt, overestimate—leftover stone stores well for future use.