Material-Specific Calculators
Choose the right calculator for your specific material. Each calculator includes specialized features, weight conversions, and material-specific tips.
Concrete Calculator
Calculate cubic yards for driveways, patios, foundations, and sidewalks. Includes bag conversions and strength recommendations.
- Project type presets
- Thickness recommendations
- Bag quantity calculations
- Weight estimates
- Cost estimation tools
Gravel Calculator
Calculate gravel and stone for driveways, walkways, and drainage projects. Multiple gravel types and compaction factors.
- Multiple gravel types
- Compaction calculations
- Weight conversions
- Depth recommendations
- Drainage applications
Mulch Calculator
Calculate mulch for garden beds, landscaping, and plant protection. Includes coverage charts and bag conversions.
- Different mulch types
- Coverage calculations
- Bag conversions
- Depth guidelines
- Seasonal recommendations
Soil Calculator
Calculate topsoil, fill dirt, and compost for gardens, raised beds, and landscaping projects.
- Soil type selection
- Settling calculations
- Weight estimates
- Garden depth guides
- Amendment ratios
Material Comparison Guide
| Material | Weight (tons/CY) | Common Depth | Best For | Compaction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete | 1.8-2.0 | 4-8 inches | Permanent structures | None |
| Gravel | 1.2-1.3 | 2-6 inches | Driveways, drainage | 15-20% |
| Mulch | 0.4-0.6 | 2-3 inches | Garden beds | Minimal |
| Topsoil | 1.0-1.1 | 6-12 inches | Planting, gardens | 10-15% |
| Fill Dirt | 1.1-1.2 | As needed | Grading, leveling | 15-20% |
General Material Tips
Always Order Extra
Add 10-20% extra material to account for waste, compaction, and measurement variations. Better to have too much than too little.
Check Delivery Options
Confirm delivery methods and access requirements. Some materials require special equipment or have minimum order quantities.
Consider Timing
Order materials close to your project start date. Some materials can degrade or become difficult to work with over time.
Verify Quality
Ask about material specifications, especially for concrete strength, gravel size, or soil composition to ensure it meets your needs.
Material Calculator FAQ
Which calculator should I use?
Use the material-specific calculator that matches your project. Each calculator includes specialized features and recommendations for that material type.
Can I calculate multiple materials for one project?
Yes, use each relevant calculator separately. For example, use the concrete calculator for a patio and the mulch calculator for surrounding garden beds.
Do the calculators include waste factors?
Yes, each calculator automatically adds appropriate waste factors based on the material type and typical installation requirements.
Are weight estimates accurate?
Weight estimates are based on industry averages and are suitable for planning purposes. Actual weights may vary based on moisture content and specific material composition.