An application designed to estimate the volume of aggregate material needed for a subsurface drainage system is essential for proper installation. These tools typically require input such as the desired length, width, and depth of the trench, and then calculate the required amount of gravel or stone in cubic yards or tons. An example includes a user specifying a trench 50 feet long, 1 foot wide, and 2 feet deep, and the application returning an estimated volume of aggregate necessary to fill that trench.
Accurate estimation of materials is vital to minimize waste, control project costs, and ensure proper functionality of the drainage system. Historically, these calculations were performed manually, which introduced a higher probability of error. The availability of digital tools streamlines the process, resulting in more precise material estimations and reducing the likelihood of over- or under-ordering aggregate.