Landscaping material calculators for New Mexico
Start by entering the project dimensions for an estimate. For placement depths, coverage details, and sample calculations, use the calculator on the material's page.
Add project measurements
Think of a cubic yard as a cube measuring 3 x 3 x 3 feet. Bulk products are ordered by the cubic yard or by the ton, so you need to turn the area and depth of a project into the applicable unit. These calculators estimate that amount for 24 individual materials using each material's actual cubic-yard weight. Shredded mulch is about 600 lb per yard, while crusher run is about 3,000 lb for the same volume. That cube can weigh roughly five times more depending on the material, which is why material-specific calculations are more accurate than a general aggregate calculator.
Pick a material
Calculation method
Find the square-foot area first by multiplying length and width in feet. Convert the depth to feet by dividing inches by 12, then multiply that depth by the area for cubic feet. Divide that figure by 27 to get cubic yards, then use the material density to determine tons. This is the same math used when measurements are provided by phone.
Tons = cubic yards × density (0.3 for mulch, up to 1.55 for riprap)
Getting the depth right matters. For example, a 10 x 10 patio with 2 inches of stone uses half the amount required at 4 inches. If you are not sure of the depth, check the project guidance on that material page first.
View all 24 materials
The calculators use the figures in this chart. Use it to compare material types or review an estimate from a different yard:
| Material | Weight per yd³ | Tons per yd³ | Typical depth | 1 yd³ covers at 3" | Sold by |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driveway / walkway gravel | ≈ 2,800 lb | 1.40 | 2-4" (6" new drive) | 108 sq ft | Ton |
| Pea gravel (3/8") | ≈ 2,800 lb | 1.40 | 2-3" | 108 sq ft | Ton |
| Crushed stone #57 / 3/4" | ≈ 2,800 lb | 1.40 | 2-4" | 108 sq ft | Ton |
| Crusher run / road base | ≈ 3,000 lb | 1.50 | 4" compacted | 108 sq ft | Ton |
| River rock (1-3") | ≈ 2,700 lb | 1.35 | 2-4" by size | 108 sq ft | Ton |
| Mason / washed sand | ≈ 2,700 lb | 1.35 | 1-6" by use | 108 sq ft | Ton |
| Topsoil (screened) | ≈ 2,200 lb | 1.10 | 2-6" | 108 sq ft | Yard |
| Garden soil (blended) | ≈ 2,000 lb | 1.00 | 4-12" by bed | 108 sq ft | Yard |
| Fill dirt | ≈ 2,400 lb | 1.20 | as needed | 108 sq ft | Yard |
| Shredded mulch | ≈ 600 lb | 0.30 | 2-3" | 108 sq ft | Yard |
| RipRap / armor stone | ≈ 3,100 lb | 1.55 | 12"+ layers | n/a | Ton |
Choosing the right material
- For a driveway or parking pad, figure the crusher run or road base below and the driveway gravel or #57 stone above as separate layers. Use two calculators.
- For standing water, a wet trench, or a French drain, use clean #57 or drain rock at 12 inches or deeper.
- Use shredded mulch around growing plants. Choose river rock for a border that does not need regular replacement.
- Cover a bare or sparse lawn with 4-6 inches of screened topsoil, then install seed or sod.
- To build up a low area or fill a hole, place fill dirt below and reserve topsoil for only the upper 4-6 inches.
- A paver patio has a compacted base and an exact 1 inch bedding-sand layer. The Paver Base and Paver Sand calculators calculate each layer separately.
- For playground fall zones, maintain pea gravel at a depth of 9 to 12 inches.
- For a washing-out bank or shoreline, install riprap over fabric in layers of 12 inches or more.
From estimate to driveway delivery
The materials above are available from New Mexico Rock Supply. Orders throughout New Mexico include free delivery, often within 2 business days. Use the calculator, visit its linked product page, then place your order. If you prefer, share your measurements by phone at (505) 240-8790 and we can help calculate the amount.
Ordering questions and answers
What calculator should I choose?
Should I buy cubic yards or tons?
How precise are the calculator results?
Can one delivery include multiple materials?
Are all calculator materials for sale?
Your estimate includes free shipping
The 24 materials covered by these calculators are available with free delivery across New Mexico.