If you are buying decomposed granite for the first time, the question is almost always the same: how much do I actually need? Here is the short answer. For a standard pathway or patio at a 2 inch depth, plan on about 1 ton of decomposed granite for every 100 square feet. Go deeper and you need more, go shallower and you need less. The rest of this guide shows you how to get an exact number for your project.
The quick formula
Decomposed granite is sold by weight, but you measure your project by area and depth. Here is how to connect the two:
- Measure the length and width of your area in feet, then multiply them to get square feet.
- Pick your depth in inches and divide it by 12 to convert to feet.
- Multiply square feet by that depth to get cubic feet.
- Divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards, then multiply by roughly 1.4 to estimate tons.
A worked example: a 20 by 10 foot patio is 200 square feet. At 2 inches deep that is 200 multiplied by 0.167, which is about 33 cubic feet, or 1.2 cubic yards, or close to 1.7 tons. If math is not your idea of a good time, our coverage calculator does all of this for you in a few seconds.
Coverage at a glance
Most people land on 2 to 3 inches of depth. This table gives you a starting point at common depths so you can sanity check any quote.
| Area | 2 inches deep | 3 inches deep |
|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft | ~1 ton | ~1.5 tons |
| 250 sq ft | ~2.5 tons | ~3.7 tons |
| 500 sq ft | ~5 tons | ~7.5 tons |
| 1,000 sq ft | ~10 tons | ~15 tons |
Density varies a little by color and screening, so treat these as close estimates and add about 10 percent for compaction and waste.
How decomposed granite is sold
You do not have to commit to a full truckload to get started. Earth Stone Rock sells decomposed granite in sizes that match the job:
- Samples (16oz, 32oz, 64oz): the smart first step. Order the color you are considering and see it in your own light before you buy in bulk.
- 1/2 cubic foot bags: good for small repairs, planters, and touch ups.
- 1,000 lb and 2,000 lb (1 ton): the workhorse sizes for patios, paths, and beds.
- Bulk and truckload: the best price per ton for driveways and large yards.
How deep should decomposed granite be?
Depth depends on traffic. Use this as a rule of thumb:
- Garden beds and decorative cover: 1 to 2 inches.
- Walkways and patios: 2 to 3 inches.
- Driveways and high traffic areas: 3 to 4 inches, ideally over a compacted base.
For surfaces you walk or drive on, a stabilizer mixed into the top layer keeps the DG firm and reduces tracking. We carry stabilizers for exactly this.
Frequently asked questions
How many square feet does a ton of decomposed granite cover?
About 100 square feet at 2 inches deep, or roughly 70 square feet at 3 inches. Shallower applications stretch further.
Does decomposed granite need a base layer?
For beds and light foot traffic, no. For driveways and patios that need to stay firm, a compacted aggregate base under the DG makes the surface last much longer.
Will decomposed granite wash away in the rain?
Loose DG can migrate on slopes or in heavy runoff. Adding a stabilizer and edging holds it in place and keeps your pathway looking finished season after season.
How much extra should I order?
Add about 10 percent to your calculated amount to cover compaction, uneven ground, and the inevitable bit of waste.
Ready to get an exact number?
Run your measurements through the coverage calculator, then browse our decomposed granite colors. Order a sample first if you want to see the color in person, and we will deliver anywhere in the country from our California yards.