Home & DIY

Landscaping Rock Calculator

Tons of decorative rock for a bed.

Enter your values

Enter the bed area in sq ft.

Enter the depth in in.

Enter the density in tons/cu yd.

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed. Your values are remembered on this device, and the shareable link reopens the calculator with exactly these numbers.

Results
Rock needed
1.67 tons
Volume
1.23 cu yd
0.5 cu ft bags needed
67

Quick answer

Rock volume is area times depth converted to cubic yards, then to tons using the rock's density.

tons = (area x depth / 27) x density (tons/cu yd)

At a glance

What it doesTons of decorative rock for a bed.
CategoryHome & DIY
Inputs neededBed area, Depth, Density
Main outputRock needed
Formulatons = (area x depth / 27) x density (tons/cu yd)
CostFree — no sign-up, no download

How to use the Landscaping Rock Calculator

  1. 1Measure the bed area and decide a depth, typically 2-3 inches for decorative rock.
  2. 2Use the rock's density, often 1.2-1.5 tons per cubic yard depending on stone size.
  3. 3Order in tons for bulk delivery or bags for small areas.

Inputs explained

Bed area(sq ft)
Enter the bed area in sq ft.
Depth(in)
Enter the depth in in.
Density(tons/cu yd)
Enter the density in tons/cu yd.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • Bed area200 sq ft
  • Depth2 in
  • Density1.35 tons/cu yd

Results

  • Rock needed1.67 tons
  • Volume1.23 cu yd
  • 0.5 cu ft bags needed67

Frequently asked questions

How deep should decorative rock be?

2-3 inches is standard for ground cover rock; deeper for erosion control.

Do I need landscape fabric underneath?

Yes, it is recommended to reduce weed growth and stone sinking into the soil.

What do I need to enter into the Landscaping Rock Calculator?

Just 3 values: bed area, depth, density. Every field starts with a realistic example, so you can change one number at a time and watch the result update instantly.

How does the Landscaping Rock Calculator work out the answer?

Rock volume is area times depth converted to cubic yards, then to tons using the rock's density. It applies the formula tons = (area x depth / 27) x density (tons/cu yd) and shows the working so you can check each step by hand.

Is the Landscaping Rock Calculator free, and do I need an account?

It is completely free with no sign-up, no download and no usage limit. Everything is calculated in your browser, so the numbers you type never leave your device.

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.