Landscape Stone Installation: Cost Estimation and Sourcing

Switching from mulch to landscape stone for entire perimeter and island beds. Cost estimation and installation basics.

Cheapest Approach

• Free local rock (creek, old gravel pit—with permission)
• DIY installation (wheelbarrow + shovel)

Commercial Stone Estimation

1. Contact local stone supplier
2. Ask coverage (sq ft/ton or CY) for your selected stone
3. Measure total bed area (length × width)
4. Calculate quantity needed

Installation Basics

• Weed fabric first (polypropylene, not plastic)
• 3+ inch stone depth
• Edging to contain stone
• Wheelbarrow and shovel placement

Pro Tip

Stone is priced by weight but sold by volume. Coverage varies significantly by stone type and size.