1. What is the River Rock Calculator?

The River Rock Calculator estimates the amount of river rock needed for landscaping projects. It calculates the weight in tons based on the area's dimensions and desired depth of coverage.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Length \) — Length of the area in feet
• \( Width \) — Width of the area in feet
• \( Depth \) — Desired depth of river rock in feet
• 27 — Conversion factor from cubic feet to cubic yards
• 1.4 — Average weight of river rock in tons per cubic yard

Explanation: The formula first calculates the volume in cubic yards, then multiplies by the average weight of river rock per cubic yard to determine the total tons needed.

3. Importance of Accurate Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation ensures you purchase the right amount of river rock, avoiding both shortages that delay projects and excess that wastes money and materials.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure the length and width of your project area in feet. Determine the desired depth of river rock coverage (typically 2-4 inches, converted to feet). Enter all values as positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What depth should I use for river rock?
A: For most landscaping applications, 2-4 inches (0.17-0.33 feet) is sufficient. For high-traffic areas, consider 4-6 inches.

Q2: Does the calculation account for compaction?
A: The 1.4 factor includes typical compaction, but you may want to add 5-10% extra for settling over time.

Q3: How do I convert inches to feet for depth?
A: Divide inches by 12. For example, 3 inches = 3/12 = 0.25 feet.

Q4: What if my area isn't rectangular?
A: For irregular shapes, break the area into smaller rectangles, calculate each separately, then sum the results.

Q5: Does river rock weight vary by type?
A: Yes, different types of river rock have slightly different densities. The 1.4 factor is an average; consult your supplier for specific weights.