Landscape Rock & Stone Calculator
Estimate landscape rock and decorative stone for garden beds, borders, dry creek beds and ground cover. Enter the area and depth to get the rock needed in tonnes, cubic yards and cost.
Landscape Rock & Stone Calculator Tool
How much landscape rock do I need?
Decorative landscape rock and stone is estimated like gravel: area × depth gives the volume, then multiply by density (≈1.5 t/m³ for most landscape rock, ≈1.44 t/m³ for river rock).
- Decorative ground cover: 5 cm (2 in) over landscape fabric.
- River rock beds / borders: 5–7.5 cm (2–3 in).
- Larger feature stone: roughly the diameter of the stone.
Landscape rock coverage per tonne
| Depth | Coverage (m²) | Coverage (ft²) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 cm (2 in) | ≈ 13 m² | ≈ 140 ft² |
| 7.5 cm (3 in) | ≈ 8.9 m² | ≈ 96 ft² |
| 10 cm (4 in) | ≈ 6.7 m² | ≈ 72 ft² |
Frequently asked questions
How much landscape rock do I need?
Multiply the bed area by the depth (usually 2–3 inches), then by the rock density (~1.5 t/m³). The calculator returns tonnes and cubic yards. Lay landscape fabric underneath to limit weeds and sinking.
How much does landscape rock weigh?
Most decorative landscape rock weighs about 1.5 tonnes per cubic metre; smooth river rock is lighter at about 1.44 t/m³.
How deep should decorative rock be?
About 2 inches (5 cm) for ground cover, or 2–3 inches for river rock beds and borders.
How much area does a tonne of landscape rock cover?
Roughly 13 m² (140 ft²) at a 2 inch depth.
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Disclaimer: Results are estimates based on the values you enter and typical material densities. Actual quantities vary with gravel type, particle size, moisture and compaction. Cost estimates cover material only and exclude labour, delivery and taxes. Confirm quantities with your supplier.