A tool that determines the quantity of aggregate material needed for a specific project, considering the material’s density and the area to be covered. For example, it calculates how much of a particular crushed rock, sized at three-quarters of an inch after being washed to remove fines, is required to fill a driveway or create a drainage bed.
This type of calculation is important because it prevents over- or under-ordering materials. Accurate estimates save money, reduce waste, and ensure project efficiency. The practice of estimating material needs evolved alongside the growth of construction and landscaping industries, becoming increasingly sophisticated with the advent of digital tools.