Decomposed Granite Calculator

Calculate decomposed granite (DG) for paths, patios and beds from your measurements, with optional weight from your supplier's bulk density.

Decomposed granite volume calculator

Material: Decomposed granite · Calculating another material? Use the Gravel Calculator

Units
Area and depth

Section 1

Shape

For a square, enter the same length and width.

Enter the finished depth you plan to use.

Add another area — a second bed or a path, for example — to calculate a combined total.

Advanced optionsExtra material / handling allowance

Adds the percentage you choose to the order volume for waste, handling or contingency. It is separate from compaction.

Result

Your result will appear here

Enter your measurements and calculate to see volume in cubic yards, cubic feet, and cubic metres.

How this calculator works

The calculator multiplies your area by the finished depth of DG you want, then converts the result to cubic yards, cubic feet and cubic metres.

Volume = Area × Finished depth

This is the volume of the finished layer. The calculator does not apply a compaction adjustment for DG.

About decomposed granite

Decomposed granite — often called DG — is granite that has weathered into small particles and fines. It is used for paths, patios, and the spaces between plants and pavers.

Finished depth versus what to order

DG is often compacted in place, and some products are stabilized. How much loose DG you need for a given finished depth depends on the product and installation. Ask your supplier or installer how much to order for your finished depth; you can add a percentage as an Extra material / handling allowance if they suggest one.

Bag labels are not bulk density

We found no reliable general bulk density for DG. A bag that lists both a weight and a nominal volume does not tell you the density of loose stockpiled DG, so weight here uses only the bulk density your supplier gives for the product.

Planning several beds and paths? Use the Landscape Rock Calculator. For other materials, use the Gravel Calculator.

Worked example

Example: 12 ft × 12 ft patio at 3 in finished depth

  1. Area: 12 ft × 12 ft = 144 ft²
  2. Depth: 3 in = 0.25 ft
  3. Volume: 144 × 0.25 = 36.0 ft³
  4. Cubic yards: 36.0 ÷ 27 = 1.33 yd³

Result: 1.33 cubic yards (1.02 cubic metres) of finished DG. The depth is an example input.

Frequently asked questions

How much extra DG should I order for compaction?

It depends on the product and how it is installed. Ask your supplier or installer; if they give you a percentage, enter it as the Extra material / handling allowance.

How much does a cubic yard of DG weigh?

We found no reliable general figure. Enter the bulk density your supplier gives for the product to get an estimated weight.

Can I use the bag weight to work out bulk density?

Not reliably. A bag’s stated weight and nominal volume do not establish the density of loose, stockpiled DG.

Sources & methodology

Volume is geometry plus unit conversion. Sources relevant to this page: