The DG (Decomposed Granite) Calculator helps homeowners, landscapers, and construction professionals estimate the amount of decomposed granite needed for a specific project. Whether it’s a pathway, driveway, or garden landscaping, this calculator provides an accurate volume and weight estimate to ensure efficient material usage and cost-effective planning.
Formula of Dg (Decomposed Granite) Calculator
The decomposed granite volume can be calculated using the formula:
Decomposed Granite Volume = (Length × Width × Depth)
where:
- Length is the measured length of the area in feet or meters.
- Width is the measured width of the area in feet or meters.
- Depth is the desired thickness of the decomposed granite layer in inches or centimeters.
To convert volume into weight:
Total Weight = Decomposed Granite Volume × Material Density
where:
- Material Density is typically 1.35 to 1.75 tons per cubic yard (varies by composition and moisture content).
This calculation helps users determine the correct amount of DG to purchase, avoiding overordering or underordering.
Decomposed Granite Reference Table
This table provides estimated amounts of decomposed granite required for various project sizes and depths.
| Project Area (sq. ft.) | Depth (inches) | Volume (cubic yards) | Estimated Weight (tons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 | 2 | 0.62 | 0.84 – 1.09 |
| 200 | 3 | 1.85 | 2.50 – 3.24 |
| 500 | 4 | 6.17 | 8.33 – 10.80 |
| 1000 | 6 | 18.52 | 25.00 – 32.41 |
| 1500 | 8 | 30.86 | 41.67 – 54.02 |
These values offer a quick reference for material estimation based on typical DG density ranges.
Example of Dg (Decomposed Granite) Calculator
A landscaper is planning to install a 2-inch thick decomposed granite layer over a 500 square foot area. Using the formula:
Decomposed Granite Volume = (500 × 2) ÷ 324
= 3.09 cubic yards
Now, calculating weight:
Total Weight = 3.09 × 1.35 to 1.75
= 4.17 to 5.41 tons
This means the landscaper needs approximately 4.17 to 5.41 tons of DG to complete the project.
Most Common FAQs
The depth depends on the type of project. 2-3 inches is ideal for pathways, while 4-6 inches is recommended for driveways or heavy-use areas.
Yes, DG is permeable, making it a great choice for areas that require water drainage while maintaining a stable surface.
For a 2-inch depth, approximately 0.016 cubic yards per square foot is needed. Multiply this by your total square footage to estimate volume.