Landscaping Rock Calculator
Calculate tons of rock, gravel, and stone for landscaping. Coverage by depth. Free calculator.
Choosing Landscape Rock by Weight
Rock weight varies wildly by type. Pea gravel runs about 1.4 tons per cubic yard — fill a pickup truck bed 2 inches deep and you are hauling over a ton. River rock is heavier at 1.5 tons per yard because of its density and rounded shape that packs tightly. Lava rock is the lightweight option at just 0.5 tons per yard, making it easier to spread but prone to washing away in heavy rain. For most garden beds and pathways, figure on 2 inches of depth for decorative coverage or 4 inches for functional drainage areas like French drains.
Buying Tips That Save Money
Bulk delivery beats bags every time once you need more than half a ton. A ton of pea gravel delivered costs $35-60. That same amount in bags from a home center runs $120-180. The catch: delivery trucks need access and may dump on your driveway if they cannot reach the project area. Call your local landscape supply yard directly — prices are 30-50% lower than big box stores, and they will help you calculate quantities over the phone.
Landscape fabric under rock seems like a good idea, but most professionals skip it. It degrades within 3-5 years, prevents organic matter from enriching the soil, and becomes an ugly mess when exposed. Use 4 inches of rock directly on graded soil — weeds that do grow pull out easily from loose rock.
