Crushed Limestone Calculator
Calculate cubic yards of crushed limestone (#57 stone) for drainage and base material
Enter Dimensions
Enter your dimensions above to see results
Tips & Notes
- •#57 limestone is the most common size for drainage and base layers — 3/4" nominal.
- •4" depth is standard under concrete slabs and paver bases for drainage.
- •Limestone compacts better than round gravel — good for driveways and base layers.
- •Also sold as 'caliche' in the South and Southwest.
- •Fines (crusher run) are good for compacting; clean stone is better for drainage.
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Pro tips for crushed limestone
- ›#57 limestone is the most common size for drainage and base layers — 3/4" nominal.
- ›4" depth is standard under concrete slabs and paver bases for drainage.
- ›Limestone compacts better than round gravel — good for driveways and base layers.
- ›Also sold as 'caliche' in the South and Southwest.
- ›Fines (crusher run) are good for compacting; clean stone is better for drainage.
Frequently asked questions
What is #57 crushed limestone?▾
#57 is a standard aggregate size — washed crushed stone with pieces from 1/4" up to 1" (3/4" nominal). It's the most common drainage and base stone in the U.S. because it compacts well while still allowing water flow.
How much #57 limestone do I need for a paver base?▾
Standard paver bases use 4" of compacted #57 base. For a 100 sq ft patio, you need about 1.25 cubic yards (the stone compacts 15–20%, so order 1.5 to be safe). The calculator above accounts for compaction automatically.
Is crushed limestone the same as gravel?▾
Limestone is one type of gravel. 'Gravel' is a generic term; #57 limestone is a specific crushed-stone aggregate. Other common gravels include crushed granite, river gravel, and crusher run. Limestone is preferred for base layers because it compacts firmly.
How much does #57 limestone cost?▾
Bulk #57 limestone runs $30–$65/cubic yard delivered locally (varies sharply by region — Midwest is cheapest, coastal areas highest). Retail bags run $5–$8 for 50 lb bags but bulk is far more economical for any project over 1/4 yard.
Limestone vs. crusher run — which should I use?▾
Use clean #57 limestone for drainage and below paver bases (water flows through). Use crusher run (limestone with fines) for driveways and packed surfaces that need to shed water. Crusher run compacts harder but doesn't drain.