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Decomposed Granite Calculator

Calculate decomposed granite (DG) for paths, patios, driveways, and dry creek beds. Compacts to a firm walkable surface — exact cubic yards, tons, and cost.

You'll need
1.48 cu yd · 20 bags
Cost
$60–$105
Project details
Areas
Area 1
LengthWidthside viewDepth
Area: 160 sq ftVolume: 40 cu ft
Total160 sq ft · 40.00 cu ft
Material
Decomposed Granite · Compacts to firm, walkable surface. Paths, dry creek beds, patios.
Default depth: 3"Density: ~100 lbs/cu ftCompaction: 20% extra
How you'll buy it
💡 Bulk delivery recommended
Your project is ≥1 cubic yard — bulk is usually half the cost of 20 bags.

Leave blank to use estimate

Default: $40–$70/yd

Typical: $50–$120

Extras

Plastic, metal, or stone edging

Cost breakdown

Showing bulk delivery pricing (recommended for your volume).
Decomposed Granite · 1.50 cu yd$60 – $105
Total project cost$60 – $105
💡 Comparison: 20 bags would cost $100 – $180; bulk (1.50 yd) would cost $60 – $105.

Shopping list

Everything you need for this project.
  • Decomposed Granite (bulk delivery)1.50 cu yd
  • Wheelbarrow1
  • Garden rake & flat shovel1 set
  • Gloves1 pair
  • Tamper or hand compactor (for compaction)optional
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Math breakdown

Step-by-step from your inputs.
Area 1 · 20 × 8 × 3"/1240 cu ft
Total volume40.00 cu ft
Cubic yards · ÷ 271.48 cu yd
Bags · ÷ 2 cu ft per bag20 bags
Weight · @ 100 lbs/cu ft4,000 lbs (2.00 tons)

Pro tips

Always factor in compaction. DG compacts 20% — that 3-inch path you measured needs 3.6 inches of loose material before compaction. The calculator handles this when you toggle "Account for compaction."

Stabilized DG resists erosion. Plain DG washes out in heavy rain. Stabilized DG (mixed with a natural binder) costs 2-3× more but holds up for years without re-grading. Worth it for visible paths.

4 inches for driveways. A DG driveway needs 4 inches of compacted depth on a prepared base. Add a 2-inch top layer of fresh DG every 3-5 years to keep it looking sharp.

Frequently asked questions

How much DG for a 100 sq ft path?▾
At 3 inches compacted depth (with 20% compaction allowance): about 1.4 cubic yards. The calculator pre-fills this when you check the compaction box.
Decomposed granite vs. crushed granite?▾
DG is weathered granite that breaks down into small particles (1/4 inch and smaller) — looks earthy. Crushed granite is fresh-crushed in larger chunks (1/2 to 1 inch) — looks more like crushed stone. DG packs tighter.
Can DG be used as a driveway?▾
Yes, with a proper base and 4-inch compacted depth. It performs best in dry climates. Wet climates may want stabilized DG to resist washout.
Does DG get muddy when wet?▾
Plain DG can get a thin mud film after heavy rain — dries fast and brushes off. Stabilized DG stays cleaner. Add a layer of pea gravel on top for the cleanest finish.

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Disclaimer. This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes. Actual material quantities and costs may vary based on site conditions, material availability, and local pricing.