Crushed Concrete Calculator: Yards & Tons

This crushed concrete calculator works out the volume and weight of crushed concrete you need for a project. You enter the length, width, and depth of the area to be filled, and it returns the amount in cubic yards and the estimated weight in tons. It uses the standard density of crushed concrete (about 1.35 tons per cubic yard) to convert volume to weight.

Formula

The calculator uses two simple formulas. First, it finds the volume in cubic feet: Volume (cu ft) = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (ft). Since depth is usually measured in inches, you divide by 12 to convert to feet. Then it converts cubic feet to cubic yards by dividing by 27 (because 1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet).

Finally, it estimates weight: Tons = Cubic yards × 1.35 tons/cubic yard.

Variables:

• L = length of the area, in feet
• W = width of the area, in feet
• D = depth of the crushed concrete layer, in inches (converted to feet)
• 1.35 = average density of compacted crushed concrete, in tons per cubic yard

Worked Example

Using the default values: length = 20 ft, width = 10 ft, depth = 4 in.

1. Convert depth to feet: 4 in ÷ 12 = 0.3333 ft
2. Volume in cubic feet: 20 × 10 × 0.3333 = 66.67 cu ft
3. Convert to cubic yards: 66.67 ÷ 27 = 2.47 cu yd
4. Weight in tons: 2.47 × 1.35 = 3.33 tons

So for a 20 ft by 10 ft area at 4 inches deep, you need about 2.5 cubic yards or 3.3 tons of crushed concrete. Most suppliers sell by the ton, so the second number is what you’ll order.

Why Use Crushed Concrete?

Crushed concrete is recycled material made from demolished concrete structures, pavements, and slabs. It’s a popular base material for driveways, parking lots, and patios because it’s cheaper than virgin gravel and keeps construction waste out of landfills. After the concrete is crushed and screened to a uniform size (often 1–2 inches), it compacts well and drains properly.

Common uses include:

• Base layer under new concrete or asphalt
• Driveway and path surfacing
• Backfill for retaining walls
• Drainage layers

Because it’s recycled, the quality can vary slightly with the source, but most crushed concrete has a density close to 1.35 tons per cubic yard when compacted.

How to Measure Your Project Area

Accurate measurements are the key to a good estimate. For a rectangular area, measure length and width in feet. For irregular shapes, divide the area into rectangles, calculate each, and add them together. Depth depends on the purpose:

• Driveway base: 4–6 inches
• Walkway: 3–4 inches
• Patio base: 4 inches
• Drainage layer: 6–8 inches

If you’re ordering from a supplier, they may ask for the volume in cubic yards or the weight in tons. This calculator gives you both, so you can call with confidence.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

The most frequent error is mixing up units. Depth is often given in inches while length and width are in feet—if you don’t convert, you’ll overestimate by 12 times. Another mistake is forgetting that a cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, not 3. Always double-check your numbers with the calculator.

Also, the density of crushed concrete can range from about 1.2 to 1.5 tons per cubic yard depending on the size of the pieces and how much it’s compacted. The 1.35 figure is a good average, but for a more precise estimate, ask your supplier for their specific density. Loose material weighs less than compacted material, so if you’re ordering for a truck, the weight may vary slightly.

Crushed Concrete vs. Gravel vs. Limestone

Crushed concrete is often compared to crushed limestone and natural gravel. The main differences are cost, appearance, and availability.

• Cost: Crushed concrete is usually cheaper because it’s recycled. Prices vary by region, but you might save 20–40% compared to virgin stone.
• Appearance: Crushed concrete has a gray, somewhat dusty look with visible pieces of old concrete. Limestone is lighter and more uniform.
• Durability: All three are strong base materials, but crushed concrete can contain rebar or other debris if not properly processed. Reputable suppliers screen it well.

For many projects, crushed concrete is the best value. Just check with your local supplier to confirm availability and quality.

Ordering and Delivery Tips

Once you have your tonnage, round up slightly to account for compaction and spillage. A good rule of thumb is to add 5–10% extra. When you order, tell the supplier the total tons and your delivery address. They’ll usually ask if you have access for a large truck.

If you’re spreading the material by hand, consider ordering smaller quantities. A standard dump truck holds about 10–15 tons, so for small projects you might pick it up yourself in a trailer. Always check the weight limit of your vehicle and trailer.

For the base layer, you’ll need to compact the crushed concrete with a plate compactor or roller. This reduces voids and increases stability. The calculator’s volume is based on the final compacted depth, so if you’re ordering loose material, it will appear to be more than you need until it’s compacted.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many square feet does a ton of crushed concrete cover?

At a 4-inch depth, one ton of crushed concrete covers about 40 square feet. The math: 1 ton ÷ 1.35 tons/cu yd = 0.74 cu yd, which is 20 cubic feet. At 4 inches deep (0.333 ft), that covers 20 ÷ 0.333 = 60 sq ft. Wait—that’s 60, not 40. Let me recalc: 0.74 cu yd × 27 = 20 cu ft. 20 cu ft ÷ (4/12 ft) = 60 sq ft. So one ton covers about 60 square feet at 4 inches deep. At 6 inches, it covers 40 square feet. The coverage depends on depth.

Can I use crushed concrete for a driveway?

Yes, crushed concrete is a common driveway material. It compacts well and provides a stable surface. For a residential driveway, a 4-inch base of crushed concrete is usually sufficient, but for heavy vehicles, consider 6 inches. Top it with a finer gravel or asphalt if you want a smoother finish.

Is crushed concrete cheaper than gravel?

Generally, yes. Because it’s recycled, crushed concrete often costs less than virgin gravel. The exact price varies by location and supplier, but you can expect to save money. Some suppliers even offer it for free if you haul it yourself, though quality may vary.

How do I calculate the amount for a circular area?

For a circle, use the formula: Volume = π × (radius in ft)² × depth in ft. Then divide by 27 to get cubic yards. For example, a 10-ft diameter circle (radius 5 ft) at 4 inches deep: 3.14 × 25 × 0.333 = 26.2 cu ft, which is 0.97 cu yd, or about 1.3 tons.

What is the difference between crushed concrete and recycled concrete aggregate?

They are essentially the same thing. “Recycled concrete aggregate� (RCA) is the formal term, while “crushed concrete� is the common name. Both refer to concrete that has been crushed and screened for reuse.

Related

• Bolt Length Calculator: How to Choose Correctly
• Bolt Root Area Calculator: Formula & Uses
• Bolt Spacing Calculator: How to Space Bolts

in l | Length | ft | 20 | 0
in w | Width | ft | 10 | 0
in d | Depth | in | 4 | 0
out cubic_yards | Cubic yards | cu yd | l * w * (d / 12) / 27 | 2
out tons | Estimated tons | tons | cubic_yards * 1.35 | 2