Decomposed Granite Weight Calculator

Estimate the weight of decomposed granite needed for your project.

Decomposed Granite Weight Calculator

Typical Decomposed Granite Coverage & Weight per Cubic Yard

Depth (Inches)	Coverage per Cubic Yard (sq ft)	Weight per Cubic Yard (lbs)
2	54	~2000-2400
3	36	~2000-2400
4	27	~2000-2400
5	21.6	~2000-2400
6	18	~2000-2400

What is Decomposed Granite?

Decomposed granite (DG) is a type of gravel composed of granite that has been weathered and broken down into smaller particles. It's a popular material in landscaping for pathways, patios, garden beds, and as a base for pavers. Its key characteristics include a natural, earthy appearance, good drainage, and a tendency to compact well, creating a stable surface. Unlike larger gravel, DG has a fine, sand-like consistency that binds together when wet, providing a firm, walkable surface once installed and compacted. This binding quality makes it an excellent alternative to concrete or pavers in many applications. Common misconceptions about decomposed granite include thinking it's just loose gravel or that it will wash away easily; however, when properly installed and compacted, it forms a durable and stable ground cover. Understanding the weight of decomposed granite is crucial for effective project planning and budgeting, as it directly impacts transportation and material costs. Many homeowners and landscape designers rely on a decomposed granite weight calculator to accurately estimate their material needs.

Decomposed Granite Weight Calculator Formula and Mathematical Explanation

The calculation for decomposed granite weight is straightforward and relies on fundamental geometric and physical principles. We first determine the volume of decomposed granite needed, and then use its density to find the total weight. This process ensures you order the correct amount, avoiding costly overages or insufficient material.

Step-by-Step Calculation:

1. Calculate Area: The area of your project is found by multiplying the length by the width.
2. Convert Depth to Feet: The desired depth is typically given in inches, but for volume calculations, it needs to be in feet. Divide the depth in inches by 12.
3. Calculate Volume: Multiply the area (in square feet) by the depth (in feet) to get the volume in cubic feet.
4. Calculate Weight: Multiply the total volume (in cubic feet) by the density of the decomposed granite (in pounds per cubic foot).

Variable Explanations:

Understanding each variable is key to using the decomposed granite weight calculator accurately:

Variables in Decomposed Granite Weight Calculation

Variable	Meaning	Unit	Typical Range
Area Length	The longest dimension of your project area.	Feet (ft)	1+
Area Width	The shortest dimension of your project area.	Feet (ft)	1+
Desired Depth	The planned thickness of the decomposed granite layer.	Inches (in)	2 – 6 (common)
Depth (ft)	Desired depth converted to feet for volume calculation.	Feet (ft)	0.167 – 0.5 (common)
Area (sq ft)	The total surface area to be covered.	Square Feet (sq ft)	Calculated
Volume (cu ft)	The total amount of space the decomposed granite will occupy.	Cubic Feet (cu ft)	Calculated
Density	The weight of the decomposed granite per unit volume. Varies by type and compaction.	Pounds per Cubic Foot (lbs/cu ft)	90 – 120 (typical)
Total Weight	The estimated total weight of decomposed granite required.	Pounds (lbs)	Calculated

The calculation for weight is: Weight = (Area Length × Area Width × (Desired Depth / 12)) × Density.

Practical Examples (Real-World Use Cases)

To illustrate the utility of a decomposed granite weight calculator, let's consider two common landscaping scenarios:

Example 1: Creating a Garden Pathway

Sarah wants to build a 50-foot long, 4-foot wide pathway in her garden. She plans for a compacted depth of 4 inches. She contacts her local supplier and learns their decomposed granite has an estimated density of 110 lbs/cu ft.

• Inputs:
• Area Length = 50 ft
• Area Width = 4 ft
• Desired Depth = 4 inches
• Density = 110 lbs/cu ft

Using the calculator:

• Area = 50 ft * 4 ft = 200 sq ft
• Depth (ft) = 4 inches / 12 = 0.333 ft
• Volume = 200 sq ft * 0.333 ft = 66.6 cu ft
• Total Weight = 66.6 cu ft * 110 lbs/cu ft = 7,326 lbs

Interpretation: Sarah will need approximately 7,326 pounds of decomposed granite for her pathway. She can then use this weight to order the appropriate amount from her supplier, often expressed in tons (7,326 lbs / 2000 lbs/ton ≈ 3.66 tons).

Example 2: Building a Small Patio Area

Mark wants to create a small patio measuring 12 feet by 10 feet. He desires a depth of 3 inches for a stable base layer. The decomposed granite he plans to use weighs approximately 105 lbs/cu ft.

• Inputs:
• Area Length = 12 ft
• Area Width = 10 ft
• Desired Depth = 3 inches
• Density = 105 lbs/cu ft

Using the calculator:

• Area = 12 ft * 10 ft = 120 sq ft
• Depth (ft) = 3 inches / 12 = 0.25 ft
• Volume = 120 sq ft * 0.25 ft = 30 cu ft
• Total Weight = 30 cu ft * 105 lbs/cu ft = 3,150 lbs

Interpretation: Mark requires about 3,150 pounds of decomposed granite for his patio. This quantity helps him get an accurate quote for material and delivery. For related calculations, consider exploring a soil moisture calculator for understanding ground conditions.

How to Use This Decomposed Granite Weight Calculator

Our decomposed granite weight calculator is designed for simplicity and accuracy. Follow these steps to get your project estimate:

1. Measure Your Area: Accurately measure the length and width of the space you intend to cover with decomposed granite in feet.
2. Determine Desired Depth: Decide on the depth of decomposed granite you need. For pathways, 3-4 inches is common. For patio bases or areas needing significant compaction, 4-6 inches might be better. Remember, this is the *final* compacted depth.
3. Input Area Dimensions and Depth: Enter your measured length and width into the "Area Length" and "Area Width" fields. Enter your desired depth in inches into the "Desired Depth" field.
4. Estimate Density: Input the approximate density of the decomposed granite you plan to use. A common range is 90-120 lbs/cu ft. If you're unsure, check with your supplier or use a conservative estimate (e.g., 100 lbs/cu ft).
5. Click Calculate: Press the "Calculate Weight" button.

How to Read Results:

• The main highlighted result shows the total estimated weight in pounds (lbs) required for your project.
• The intermediate values show:
• Volume in cubic feet (cu ft).
• The total area in square feet (sq ft).
• The desired depth converted into feet.
• Key Assumptions are listed below the results for transparency (e.g., the density value used).

Decision-Making Guidance: This weight is crucial for obtaining quotes from material suppliers and delivery services. Many suppliers sell DG by the cubic yard or by the ton. You can convert pounds to tons by dividing by 2,000. For example, 7,326 lbs is approximately 3.66 tons. Always order slightly more (around 5-10%) than calculated to account for settling, uneven ground, or slight measurement errors. This ensures you have enough material to complete your project without needing a second, potentially expensive, delivery.

Key Factors That Affect Decomposed Granite Results

While our decomposed granite weight calculator provides a solid estimate, several real-world factors can influence the actual amount needed and the final outcome:

1. Compaction Rate: Decomposed granite compacts significantly. The calculator assumes a standard depth, but the actual volume after thorough compaction might be less, meaning you might need more material initially to achieve the desired final depth.
2. Moisture Content: The density of DG can vary slightly with moisture. While the calculator uses an average, very wet or very dry material might have a slightly different weight.
3. Sub-base Preparation: The stability and drainage of the ground beneath the DG layer are critical. A poorly prepared sub-base can lead to sinking or erosion, requiring more DG or more frequent top-ups over time. Exploring soil stabilization techniques can be beneficial.
4. Traffic Load: Areas with heavy foot traffic or vehicular access (if not intended for vehicles) will compact the DG more and may require a deeper base layer or a more robust type of DG.
5. Type of Decomposed Granite: Different granite quarries produce DG with varying particle sizes and mineral compositions, leading to slightly different densities. Always confirm the specific product's density.
6. Installation Method: Whether DG is installed by hand or with mechanical compactors can affect how well it settles. Proper compaction is key to a stable surface and predictable results.
7. Drainage Considerations: While DG drains well, the surrounding landscape's drainage can impact how water behaves around and within the material. Poor drainage in adjacent areas could lead to erosion of the DG.
8. Weather Conditions During Installation: Extreme heat or rain can affect the workability and initial compaction of DG.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much does a cubic yard of decomposed granite weigh?

A: A cubic yard of decomposed granite typically weighs between 2,000 to 2,400 pounds (1 to 1.2 tons). This is because one cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet (3 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft), and using a density of 100 lbs/cu ft, that's 2700 lbs, though compaction and specific gravity reduce this. Our calculator uses lbs/cu ft for more precise calculations based on your project's specific dimensions.

Q2: What is the standard depth for decomposed granite pathways?

A: For most garden pathways, a compacted depth of 3 to 4 inches is standard. For areas with higher traffic or needing greater stability, 4 to 6 inches is recommended. Our calculator allows you to input your desired depth.

Q3: How do I convert cubic feet to cubic yards?

A: There are 27 cubic feet in 1 cubic yard. To convert cubic feet to cubic yards, divide the total cubic feet by 27.

Q4: What is the typical density of decomposed granite?

A: The density of decomposed granite typically ranges from 90 to 120 pounds per cubic foot (lbs/cu ft). This can vary depending on the specific type of granite and its moisture content. Always try to confirm with your supplier.

Q5: Should I order extra decomposed granite?

A: Yes, it's generally recommended to order an extra 5-10% of decomposed granite. This accounts for settling, uneven subgrades, and potential measurement inaccuracies, ensuring you have enough to complete your project without running short.

Q6: Does decomposed granite need a base layer?

A: Yes, for best results, especially for patios or high-traffic areas, a compacted base layer (like gravel or crushed stone) beneath the decomposed granite is recommended for stability and drainage. However, DG itself can serve as a decorative top layer or a standalone surface for lighter-use paths.

Q7: Can decomposed granite be used for driveways?

A: While some decomposed granite products are designed for driveways, it's generally not recommended for heavy vehicular traffic unless specifically engineered and installed with a very robust base. For standard DG, pathways and patios are more suitable applications. Consider consulting experts on driveway materials if this is your goal.

Q8: How does the calculator handle different types of DG?

A: The calculator uses a user-inputted density value (lbs/cu ft). This allows you to adjust for the specific type of decomposed granite you are using. If your supplier provides a specific density, use that for the most accurate results. If not, using a typical range (90-120 lbs/cu ft) is advised.

Related Tools and Internal Resources

• Gravel CalculatorEstimate gravel needs for driveways, bases, and other landscaping projects.
• Paver CalculatorCalculate the number of pavers needed for patios, walkways, and other hardscape areas.
• Soil Moisture CalculatorUnderstand how soil moisture affects compaction and stability.
• Concrete CalculatorDetermine the amount of concrete required for foundations, slabs, and other structures.
• Mulch CalculatorEstimate mulch quantities for garden beds and tree surrounds.
• Soil Stabilization TechniquesLearn methods to improve the load-bearing capacity and durability of soil.