🪨 Limestone Calculator
Calculate limestone needed for your project
Common depths: 4 inches (driveways), 2 inches (walkways), 6-8 inches (base material)
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Area Dimensions
Input the length and width of your area in feet. Measure the total area where you'll be installing limestone (driveway, walkway, base material, etc.).
Specify Depth
Enter the depth in inches. Common depths: 4 inches for driveways, 2 inches for walkways, 6-8 inches for base material under concrete or pavers. Deeper layers provide better stability.
Calculate Limestone
Click "Calculate Limestone" to see the volume needed in cubic yards, cubic feet, tons, and bags. The calculator accounts for standard limestone density.
Order Materials
Use the cubic yards result to order from suppliers. Limestone is typically delivered by the cubic yard. Add 10% extra for waste, compaction, and settling. Order larger quantities for better pricing.
Formula
Depth (feet) = Depth (inches) ÷ 12
Volume (cubic feet) = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (ft)
Cubic Yards = Cubic Feet ÷ 27
Weight (tons) = Cubic Yards × Density (1.45 tons/yd³)
Example 1: Driveway (20 ft × 10 ft × 4 inches)
Step 1: Convert depth: 4 inches ÷ 12 = 0.333 feet
Step 2: Calculate volume: 20 × 10 × 0.333 = 66.67 cubic feet
Step 3: Convert to yards: 66.67 ÷ 27 = 2.47 cubic yards
Step 4: Calculate weight: 2.47 × 1.45 = 3.58 tons
Step 5: Add waste: 2.47 × 1.10 = 2.72 cubic yards (with 10% waste)
Example 2: Base Material (30 ft × 15 ft × 6 inches)
Step 1: Convert depth: 6 inches ÷ 12 = 0.5 feet
Step 2: Calculate volume: 30 × 15 × 0.5 = 225 cubic feet
Step 3: Convert to yards: 225 ÷ 27 = 8.33 cubic yards
Step 4: Calculate weight: 8.33 × 1.45 = 12.08 tons
About Limestone Calculator
The Limestone Calculator is an essential tool for homeowners, contractors, landscapers, and DIY enthusiasts who need to accurately determine how much limestone is required for their projects. This calculator eliminates guesswork by providing precise measurements in cubic yards (the standard unit for limestone delivery), cubic feet, tons, and bags, helping you order the right amount of materials without waste or shortages.
When to Use This Calculator
- Driveway Construction: Calculate limestone needed for new driveways, parking areas, or access roads
- Base Material: Determine material requirements for base material under concrete, pavers, or asphalt
- Walkway Projects: Estimate limestone for pathways, walkways, or garden paths
- Drainage Solutions: Calculate materials for drainage systems, French drains, or foundation drainage
- Landscaping: Plan limestone for decorative features, garden beds, or outdoor areas
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Accurate Measurements: Precise calculations prevent over-ordering or running short
- ✅ Multiple Units: Get results in cubic yards (for delivery), cubic feet, tons, and bags
- ✅ Weight Estimates: Provides weight calculations for shipping and handling
- ✅ Compaction Factor: Accounts for compaction when calculating weight (limestone compacts 10-15%)
- ✅ Cost Savings: Order the exact amount needed plus waste allowance to avoid excess material
- ✅ Time Efficient: Instant calculations save hours of manual math and measurements
Common Applications
Driveway Projects: Homeowners and contractors planning limestone driveways use this calculator to order the correct quantity of limestone. Standard driveways require 4-6 inches of compacted limestone, which this calculator helps determine accurately.
Base Material: Contractors and builders planning base material installations use this tool to estimate limestone quantities needed. Base material typically requires 6-8 inches of limestone under concrete, pavers, or asphalt for proper support.
Walkway Projects: Landscapers and homeowners planning walkways use this calculator to determine limestone quantities needed, ensuring sufficient materials are on-site before starting work.
Tips for Best Results
- Add Waste Allowance: Always add 10% extra to account for compaction, settling, and waste
- Standard Depths: Use 4 inches for driveways, 2 inches for walkways, 6-8 inches for base material
- Compaction Factor: Limestone compacts 10-15% when compacted, account for this in depth calculations
- Limestone Grades: Different grades (57, 411, 304) have similar weights (~1.4-1.5 tons/yd³)
- Order by Volume: Limestone is typically ordered in cubic yards; verify with supplier for weight-based orders
Frequently Asked Questions
How much limestone do I need for a 20×10 foot driveway at 4 inches deep?
A 20×10 foot driveway at 4 inches deep requires approximately 2.47 cubic yards of limestone, weighing about 3.58 tons. Always add 10% extra for compaction and waste, so plan for about 2.72 cubic yards or 3.94 tons.
What's the difference between limestone and crushed stone?
Limestone is a specific type of rock (calcium carbonate) that is crushed. Crushed stone is a general term that can include limestone, granite, trap rock, or other types. Limestone is commonly used for driveways and base material. Both have similar weights (~1.4-1.5 tons/yd³).
How deep should limestone be for a driveway?
Standard limestone driveways require 4-6 inches of compacted limestone. The base layer should be 4-6 inches of larger limestone (Grade 57 or 411), then topped with 2-3 inches of smaller limestone for smooth driving. Check local building codes for requirements.
Do I need to add extra limestone for compaction?
Yes! Limestone compacts 10-15% when compacted. Always add 10% extra to account for compaction, settling, and waste. If you need 2.5 yards after compaction, order about 2.75 yards.
How much does a cubic yard of limestone weigh?
A cubic yard of limestone typically weighs 1.4-1.5 tons (2,800-3,000 pounds), depending on the grade and compaction. Limestone Grade 57 and 411 weigh about 1.45 tons/yd³. Weight may vary slightly by grade and supplier.
What grade of limestone should I use?
Common limestone grades: Grade 57 (1-2 inch stones) for base material, Grade 411 (1/2-3/4 inch stones) for top layer or driveways, Grade 304 (fine material) for leveling. Check with your supplier for the best grade for your application.