The DG (Decomposed Granite) Coverage Calculator helps landscapers, homeowners, and construction professionals determine how much decomposed granite is needed to cover a given area at a specific depth. This ensures proper material estimation, avoiding overordering or underordering for pathways, driveways, patios, and landscaping projects.
Formula
The coverage area of decomposed granite is calculated using the formula:
Coverage Area = (Weight of DG in Tons) / (Density of DG per Square Foot or Square Yard)
where:
- Total DG Quantity is the amount of decomposed granite available, typically measured in cubic feet, cubic yards, or tons.
- Depth is the desired thickness of the decomposed granite layer, typically measured in inches or feet.
- Density of DG varies, but a general estimate is 1.35 to 1.75 tons per cubic yard.
Standard DG Coverage Estimates:
- 1 cubic yard of DG covers 100 square feet at 2 inches deep.
- 1 ton of DG covers 80 to 100 square feet at 2 inches deep.
DG Coverage Reference Table
This table provides estimated DG coverage for different quantities and depths.
| DG Quantity (tons) | Depth (inches) | Coverage Area (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | 2 | 80 - 100 |
| 2.5 | 3 | 67 - 83 |
| 5.0 | 4 | 50 - 65 |
| 7.5 | 5 | 40 - 55 |
| 10.0 | 6 | 33 - 50 |
These values provide a quick reference for estimating DG requirements based on typical densities.
Example of Dg Coverage Calculator
A homeowner wants to install decomposed granite on a 200 square foot patio at a depth of 3 inches. Using the standard coverage estimates:
- 1 cubic yard of DG covers 100 square feet at 2 inches deep.
- At 3 inches deep, 1 cubic yard covers approximately 67-83 square feet.
For 200 square feet:
Total DG needed = 200 ÷ 67 to 83 cubic yards
= 2.41 to 3.0 cubic yards
Weight conversion:
Total Weight = 2.41 to 3.0 × 1.35 to 1.75
= 3.25 to 5.25 tons
This means the homeowner needs approximately 3.25 to 5.25 tons of DG to cover the area effectively.
Most Common FAQs
The depth depends on the type of project. 2-3 inches is ideal for pathways and patios, while 4-6 inches is recommend for driveways or heavy-use areas.
Yes, decomposed granite can absorb moisture, increasing its weight and density. It's recommend to factor in slightly higher amounts to account for compaction and moisture content.
For a 2-inch depth, approximately 0.0125 cubic yards or 0.0135 tons per square foot is needed. Multiply this by your total square footage for accurate estimation.