3/4″ Clean Gravel (#57 Stone): Uses, Coverage & Calculator
The most-ordered stone on Simple Gravel: washed, angular 3/4″ rock that drains freely and locks together under traffic.
What is 3/4″ Clean Gravel (#57 Stone)?
#57 stone is crushed rock screened so most pieces fall between about 1/2″ and 1″, then washed to remove dust and fines. The open spaces between stones let water pass straight through, which is why it is the standard choice for drainage work.
Because the pieces are angular rather than round, they interlock and stay put better than smooth gravel. That makes #57 a popular top layer for gravel driveways and a common aggregate in concrete.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Gradation | ASTM #57 (mostly 1/2″–1″) |
| Shape | Angular, crushed |
| Fines | Washed, very few fines |
| Color | Gray to blue-gray, varies by quarry |
| Approx. weight | 1.40 tons (~2,800 lbs) per cubic yard |
Best uses
- French drains and drainage trenches
- Top layer on gravel driveways
- Backfill behind retaining walls
- Base under sheds and AC pads
- Concrete aggregate
- Pipe and culvert bedding
Not ideal for
- Barefoot paths and play areas (sharp edges)
- A smooth base directly under pavers (use 1/4″ minus or stone dust)
- Steep slopes without edging, where loose stone migrates
How much 3/4″ Clean Gravel (#57 Stone) do I need?
Enter your area and depth to get cubic yards and tons. Results update as you type.
You'll need about
Based on about 1.40 tons (~2,800 lbs) per cubic yard. Actual weight varies with moisture and source, so treat results as an estimate.
Recommended depth by project
Typical installed depths for 3/4″ Clean Gravel (#57 Stone). Check local codes or your contractor for structural work.
| Project | Depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Driveway top layer | 3″ | Over a compacted base of crushed run or road base |
| French drain fill | 12″ | Wrap the trench in filter fabric first |
| Shed or AC pad | 4″ | Contain with timber or paver edging |
| Retaining wall backfill | 12″ | At least 12″ behind the wall, full height |
How to install 3/4″ Clean Gravel (#57 Stone)
A few steps make a big difference to how long it lasts.
- Prepare the groundRemove grass and soft soil, then grade so water runs away from buildings.
- Add fabric and edgingLandscape fabric keeps soil from mixing in; edging keeps stone from spreading.
- Spread and levelSpread in 2–3″ lifts and rake level. Run a plate compactor over driveway layers.
3/4″ Clean Gravel (#57 Stone) questions
Quick answers to what customers ask most.
Is #57 stone good for a driveway?
Yes, as the top 2–3″ layer over a compacted base. On its own over soft soil it can shift and rut, so most driveways use crushed run or road base underneath.
How much does a cubic yard of #57 stone weigh?
About 1.4 tons, or roughly 2,800 lbs. Wet stone weighs a little more.
What is the difference between #57 and #67 stone?
They are similar sizes. #67 includes a few more smaller pieces, so it packs slightly tighter; #57 is a bit more open and drains a little faster.
Does #57 stone need to be compacted?
It settles and locks together under traffic, but it does not compact into a hard surface like stone with fines. For a firm driveway, compact the base layer underneath.
Related materials
Not sure this is the right one? Compare similar options.
Gravel & Crushed Stone#67 Crushed StoneGraded 3/4″-and-down stone for driveways, drainage and concrete.
Read guide & calculator →
Gravel & Crushed Stone1 1/2″ Clean RockLarge washed rock for drainage, dry wells and erosion control.
Read guide & calculator →
Drainage & BaseCrushed Run Base MaterialDense stone-and-fines blend for driveways and foundations.
Read guide & calculator →Ready to order 3/4″ Clean Gravel (#57 Stone)?
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