What Is #57 Stone? Uses, Size, and Cost Explained
Everything you need to know about what is 57 stone.
Practical, field-tested guide: what is 57 stone. Pulled from real US installer notes and 2026 supplier price data.
Quick answer
The short version: most homeowners need about 10-15 tons of crushed stone for a typical 1,000 sq ft project at 4 inches deep. Get a free quote with your zip code for delivered pricing.
What you’ll need
- Tape measure
- Wheelbarrow + rake
- Plate compactor (rent for ~$60/day)
- Geotextile fabric (for clay soils)
- Steel or stone edging
Step-by-step
- Measure and stake the project area.
- Excavate 4-6 inches below grade.
- Lay fabric over the subgrade.
- Spread 2 inches of base stone and compact.
- Top with 2 inches of finished material and roll level.
Common mistakes
Skipping the compacted base is the #1 mistake. The second is underestimating tonnage – always order 5-10% extra to cover compaction and edge loss.
Practical, field-tested guide: what is 57 stone. Pulled from real US installer notes and 2026 supplier price data.
Quick answer
The short version: most homeowners need about 10-15 tons of crushed stone for a typical 1,000 sq ft project at 4 inches deep. Get a free quote with your zip code for delivered pricing.
What you'll need
- Tape measure
- Wheelbarrow + rake
- Plate compactor (rent for ~$60/day)
- Geotextile fabric (for clay soils)
- Steel or stone edging
Step-by-step
- Measure and stake the project area.
- Excavate 4-6 inches below grade.
- Lay fabric over the subgrade.
- Spread 2 inches of base stone and compact.
- Top with 2 inches of finished material and roll level.
Common mistakes
Skipping the compacted base is the #1 mistake. The second is underestimating tonnage - always order 5-10% extra to cover compaction and edge loss.
Materials & projects mentioned
Use a calculator
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the short answer to 'what is 57 stone'?
Most homeowners get it done in a single weekend with about 10-15 tons of #57 crushed stone over a compacted base.
How much will it cost?
Materials run $500-$2,000 for a residential job. Installed cost is higher if you hire it out.
Can I DIY this project?
Yes - basic tools (wheelbarrow, rake, tamper) and one helper for a weekend.
What permits do I need?
Usually none for ground-level work on your own lot. Check with your local building office before digging deep or grading near easements.
How long does the project take?
A weekend for under 1,000 sq ft. Bigger jobs or harder soil add a day.
What's the most common mistake?
Skipping the compacted base. Loose subgrade = a wavy, rutted surface within a season.
How deep should the gravel be?
3-4 inches for driveways, 2 inches for patios, 6+ inches for drainage.
Where can I get the material delivered?
Most metro areas have local quarries that deliver same-day. Get 2-3 quotes; prices vary.