Clean Stone vs. ¾-Inch Minus
Understand washed aggregate, fines and graded base blends before ordering.
The number is not the full specification
Two products described as 3/4-inch can perform very differently. Clean stone typically has limited fines; minus generally includes smaller particles and fines. Local naming varies, so request the supplier’s grading and intended application.
Open voids versus dense compaction
Clean coarse stone is often specified where open voids are useful. A well-graded blend can pack more densely, and controlled fines help some road-surface products bind. Do not substitute a dense-graded base blend into a drainage system without checking the design.
Buying checklist
Ask whether the product is washed, what proportion passes the fine sieves, and what specification it meets. For a compacted layer, confirm required lift thickness and the supplier’s loose-to-finished quantity guidance.
Quantity example
For the same geometric 2 yd³ volume, a density assumption of 1.40 gives 2.80 US tons while 1.50 gives 3.00 US tons. These are illustrative densities, not a universal clean-versus-minus conversion.
Sources and methodology
Our volume and weight formulas are documented in the calculation methodology. Material densities are editable planning assumptions, not measured product specifications. For road selection and drainage principles, see Penn State Extension. For sand product distinctions, see QUIKRETE Mason Sand and All-Purpose Sand. Follow local and manufacturer specifications.