How Much Limestone Aggregate Do I Need?

Covering

• For a basic covering of limestone aggregate over the ground, aim for several inches of fill to keep the limestone from washing away in the rain or getting stamped into the ground over time. One ton of type 1 limestone aggregate can fill about 10 square yards at this rate. Keep in mind that you can also use granite and other types of rock for these ground covers if limestone does not meet the demands of your project.

Slabs

• Limestone aggregate can also help prepare areas for a foundation. In this case, the foundation slab needs a strong substrate of aggregate materials that will keep moisture away and provide a surface that is easy to level out when the concrete is curing and will not unexpectedly settle over time. Here depth is more important than when using limestone for simple ground covers. One ton of limestone aggregate will fill about 2 cubic yards, and at least several tons are needed for large slab projects.

Variables

• Variables can affect how much limestone is needed for any project. Geology, for example, can change how much limestone is needed for foundation projects, as can the thickness and weight of the slab itself. For a patio project, borders around the aggregate can help contain it and prevent the necessity of adding new aggregate at intervals to keep the height and appearance the same. The grade of the aggregate is also key since more materials will be needed for finer grades of aggregate.

Total Work

• In all, the American Geological Institute published a reported that estimated as much as 229 tons of limestone aggregate may be used when building a 2,000- square-foot residential building with two stories and a basement floor. This takes into consideration drainage, support, cement mixing and other activities. If this seems like a lot, the same report estimated that 25,000 tons were needed for one mile of highway with a crushed stone base.