Decomposed Granite Calculator
Calculate how much decomposed granite (DG) you need for your landscaping project. Get accurate estimates in cubic yards, tons, and bags with cost calculations.
Quick Coverage Reference
📐 Area & Depth
Moderate foot traffic
✓ Recommended: Add 15-25% extra for compaction and waste
🪨 Material Needed
You Need
2.13 yd³
cubic yards of decomposed granite
Weight
3.03 tons
(6,069 lbs)
50-lb Bags
122 bags
(if buying bagged)
Project Summary
💡 Coverage: At 3" depth, 1 cubic yard covers ~108 sq ft
📏 Recommended DG Depth by Project Type
| Project Type | Depth | Coverage/yd³ | Best DG Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Garden Beds / Decorative | 2" | 162 sq ft | Natural DG |
| 🚶 Walkways / Paths | 3" | 108 sq ft | Stabilized DG |
| ☕ Patios | 3-4" | 81-108 sq ft | Stabilized DG |
| 🚗 Driveways | 4-6" | 54-81 sq ft | Resin-Coated DG |
| 🅿️ Parking Areas | 6" | 54 sq ft | Resin-Coated DG |
🪨 What is Decomposed Granite?
Decomposed granite (DG) is a naturally weathered form of granite that has broken down into small particles ranging from fine powder to 3/8-inch pieces. Its sandy, gravel-like texture and warm earth tones (tan, gold, brown, gray) make it a popular choice for landscaping, pathways, and outdoor living spaces.
Types of Decomposed Granite
Natural DG is the most affordable option ($40-100/yard), consisting of loose granite particles ideal for garden beds and low-traffic decorative areas. Stabilized DG($100-225/yard) includes binding agents that improve durability and reduce erosion, making it perfect for walkways and patios. Resin-coated DG ($250-350/yard) offers the most durability with an asphalt-like finish, best for driveways and high-traffic zones.
Installation Tips
For best results, always install DG over compacted soil with landscape fabric underneath to prevent weed growth and mixing with native soil. Use metal or plastic edging to contain the material. Compact the DG in 2-inch layers while slightly moist for maximum stability. Plan for 15-25% extra material to account for compaction and settling.
📐 Quick Formulas
Cubic Yards:
(L × W × D) ÷ 324
Tons Needed:
Cubic Yards × 1.4
Coverage:
324 ÷ Depth (in) = sq ft/yd³
✅ DG Benefits
- Excellent drainage
- Natural, rustic appearance
- Low maintenance
- Affordable landscaping option
- Eco-friendly and permeable
- Reduces water runoff
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Frequently Asked Questions
One cubic yard of decomposed granite covers approximately 324 square feet at 1 inch depth, 162 square feet at 2 inches, 108 square feet at 3 inches, or 81 square feet at 4 inches deep. The coverage decreases proportionally as depth increases. For most walkway projects at 3" depth, plan for about 100 sq ft per cubic yard.
Decomposed granite typically costs $40-100 per cubic yard for natural DG, compared to $15-75 for standard gravel. While DG is slightly more expensive, it offers better compaction, a more refined appearance, and excellent drainage. Stabilized DG ($100-225/yard) and resin-coated DG ($250-350/yard) cost more but provide greater durability for high-traffic areas.
At 3 inches depth (standard for walkways), you need approximately 0.009 cubic yards or about 25 pounds per square foot. At 2 inches depth, it's about 17 pounds per square foot. At 4 inches for driveways, plan for 33 pounds per square foot. Always add 10-25% extra for compaction and waste.
Recommended depths vary by use: 2 inches for decorative garden beds, 3 inches for walkways and paths, 3-4 inches for patios, and 4-6 inches for driveways and parking areas. Always install over compacted soil or a gravel base, and use landscape fabric underneath to prevent weed growth and mixing with soil.
One ton of decomposed granite covers approximately 100 square feet at 2 inches deep, 64 square feet at 3 inches deep, or 50 square feet at 4 inches deep. Since DG weighs about 2,700-3,000 pounds per cubic yard (1.35-1.5 tons), one cubic yard equals roughly 0.75 tons.
Decomposed granite (DG) is finer with a sand-like texture that compacts well, making it ideal for pathways and patios. Crushed granite has larger, more angular pieces (typically 1/4" to 3/8") better suited for drainage and base material. DG provides a smoother walking surface while crushed granite offers better drainage but a rougher texture.
🪨 Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes. Actual material requirements may vary based on site conditions, compaction rates, and material density. Prices are approximate averages and vary by location and supplier. Always order 10-25% extra for compaction and waste.