Calculate crusher run needed by entering length, width, and depth in your chosen units to find the missing dimension or required tons.
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Crusher Run Formula
The calculator estimates crusher run using area, depth, and an assumed average bulk density of 1.25 short tons per cubic yard. Length and width are converted to feet, depth is converted to inches, and the result is calculated in short tons before any metric ton conversion.
CR = ((L*W*(D/12))/27)*rho
- CR = crusher run needed, in short tons
- L = length, in feet
- W = width, in feet
- D = depth, in inches
- rho = bulk density, 1.25 short tons per cubic yard
- 27 = cubic feet in 1 cubic yard
- 12 = inches in 1 foot
If you leave the crusher run field blank, the calculator uses the formula above to find the tons needed.
L = (CR/rho)*27/(W*(D/12))
If you leave length blank, the calculator rearranges the same formula to find the project length.
W = (CR/rho)*27/(L*(D/12))
If you leave width blank, the calculator solves for the width that can be covered by the entered amount of crusher run.
D = (CR/rho)*27/(L*W)*12
If you leave depth blank, the calculator solves for the material depth in inches.
For metric tons, the calculator converts between short tons and metric tons using:
metric tons = short tons*0.907185
short tons = metric tons*1.10231
Common Crusher Run Depths
Typical crusher run depth depends on the use, soil conditions, and whether the material will be compacted.
| Use | Typical Depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Walkway base | 2 to 3 in | Usually enough for light foot traffic when placed on firm ground. |
| Patio or paver base | 3 to 4 in | Depth may increase for weak soils or poor drainage. |
| Residential driveway top/base layer | 4 to 6 in | Often compacted in lifts for a stronger surface. |
| Heavy-use driveway or road base | 6 to 8 in or more | May require engineering guidance for heavy loads. |
Crusher Run Estimating Values
| Value | Calculator Uses | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1.25 short tons/cubic yard | Yes | Average estimating density for crusher run. |
| 27 cubic feet | Yes | Volume in 1 cubic yard. |
| 1 metric ton | 1.10231 short tons | Used when metric tons are selected. |
| 1 short ton | 0.907185 metric tons | Used to convert the calculated result to metric tons. |
Example Problems
Example 1: Find crusher run needed
You want to cover a driveway that is 40 ft long, 10 ft wide, and 4 in deep.
CR = ((40*10*(4/12))/27)*1.25
CR = 6.1728 short tons
The estimated amount is 6.17 short tons. You may round up when ordering to allow for grading, spreading loss, and compaction.
Example 2: Find length covered
You have 5 short tons of crusher run and want a layer 8 ft wide and 3 in deep.
L = (5/1.25)*27/(8*(3/12))
L = 54 ft
At that width and depth, 5 short tons covers about 54 ft of length.
FAQs
How accurate is a crusher run estimate?
The estimate is only as accurate as the density used. This calculator uses 1.25 short tons per cubic yard, which is a common estimating value. Actual crusher run density can change based on stone size, moisture, quarry source, and compaction. If your supplier gives a specific tons-per-yard value, use that for the most accurate order estimate.
Should you order extra crusher run?
For many projects, ordering about 5% to 10% extra is practical. Extra material can account for uneven ground, low spots, spreading loss, and compaction. Larger projects, rough subgrades, and deeper bases may need a larger allowance.
What is the difference between short tons and metric tons?
A short ton is commonly used in the United States and equals 2,000 lb. A metric ton equals 1,000 kg, or about 2,204.62 lb. The calculator converts between them, so the selected output unit only changes how the same estimated material weight is displayed.
