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Hardscape Calculators

The essential toolkit for contractors, landscapers, and DIY homeowners.
Plan driveways, patios, and retaining walls with confidence. Calculate materials for pavers, concrete, gravel, and drainage instantly to ensure project success and budget accuracy.

💡 Pro Tip: For hardscape projects like patios and driveways, always calculate for “compaction”. Materials like gravel and sand can compress by 20%, so order extra to maintain your target depth.

Why Use Hardscape Calculators?

Hardscaping involves heavy, expensive materials like stone, concrete, and aggregates. Mistakes in estimation can lead to costly re-delivery fees or leftover piles of dirt. Our calculators help you:

  • Minimize Waste: Order exactly what you need for retaining walls and pavers.
  • Ensure Stability: Calculate the correct amount of rebar and base material for a long-lasting structure.
  • Budget Accurately: Convert cubic feet to tons or yards instantly to match supplier pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep should a paver base be?

For a standard patio, a 4-inch gravel base is recommended. For driveways supporting vehicles, increase the base depth to at least 6-8 inches to prevent sinking.

What is the difference between Fill Dirt and Topsoil?

Fill dirt contains rocks and clay, making it ideal for structural fill and leveling. Topsoil is rich in organic matter and is used only for the top 2-3 inches to support plant growth.

How much does gravel weigh?

While it varies by type, a general rule of thumb is that 1 cubic yard of gravel weighs approximately 1.4 to 1.5 tons. Our calculator handles this conversion for you.

Do I need rebar for my concrete slab?

Yes, rebar significantly increases the tensile strength of concrete, preventing cracks from spreading. For driveways and load-bearing slabs, rebar is essential.