Base Rock Tonnage Calculator
Convert paved or graded area and compacted thickness into tons of aggregate base. Density defaults to 125 lb/ft³, a common compacted crushed-rock value, and can be changed to match the quarry or mix sheet.
Enter your values, then press Calculate.
How to calculate
Enter the area and compacted thickness of the base rock layer. Use the supplier density when you have it. The calculator converts thickness to feet, finds cubic feet, multiplies by density, then divides by 2,000 pounds per ton.
Formula
Volume (ft³) = area (ft²) × thickness (ft). Weight (lb) = volume × density (lb/ft³). Tons = weight ÷ 2,000. Waste multiplies the neat tonnage. Cubic yards = ft³ ÷ 27.
Common use cases
- Driveway and parking-lot base
- Road aggregate base course
- Pad and sidewalk base
- Comparing 4 in vs 6 in sections
Worked example
Example: 1000 sf at 6 inches and 125 pcf
1. Volume in cubic feet
1,000 ft² × 0.5 ft = 500 ft³
2. Convert to cubic yards
500 ft³ ÷ 27 = 18.5185 yd³
3. Weight in tons
500 ft³ × 125 lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000 = 31.25 tons
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FAQ
What density should I use for crushed base?
Compacted crushed rock is often 120–140 lb/ft³. 125 lb/ft³ is a common estimating default. Use the quarry ticket when you have it.
How many tons per cubic yard?
At 125 lb/ft³, one cubic yard is about 1.69 tons (27 × 125 ÷ 2,000).
Disclaimer
These calculators are estimating tools for planning and field checks. They are not a substitute for approved plans, specifications, licensed professional engineering, or governing standards. Confirm densities, waste factors, and yields with your supplier and project documents.