Common Construction Material Densities (Yards to Tons)
Ordering aggregate from quarries and landscape yards requires converting volumetric estimates into purchase tonnages, as gravel scales bill strictly by the ton.
| Material | Lbs per Cubic Yard | Tons per Cubic Yard | Typical Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crushed D-1 Gravel | 2,900 lbs | 1.45 tons | Driveways, road sub-base, parking pads |
| Washed Drain Rock (1.5-inch) | 2,700 lbs | 1.35 tons | Septic leach fields, french drains |
| Coarse Sand (Washed) | 2,600 lbs | 1.30 tons | Paver bedding, pipe bedding |
| Screened Garden Topsoil | 2,200 lbs | 1.10 tons | Lawn seeding, flower beds |
| Cedar Wood Mulch | 800 lbs | 0.40 tons | Weed suppression, moisture retention |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions regarding this calculation and code compliance
One cubic yard of typical crushed gravel weighs roughly 1.35 to 1.45 US tons (approximately 2,700 to 2,900 pounds), depending on moisture level and rock compaction.

