Gravel Calculator
Whether you're laying a gravel driveway, creating a drainage bed, or filling a path, you need to know exactly how much material to order. This gravel calculator gives you cubic yards, tons, and bags based on your project's length, width, and desired depth.
Advertisement
Calculator
See your Gravel Calculator results
Enter your email to unlock results — free forever.
No spam, ever. Unsubscribe at any time.
Advertisement
Formula
Volume (cu yd) = L × W × (D/12) / 27; Tons = cu yd × 1.4
L is length in feet, W is width in feet, D is depth in inches. The volume is divided by 27 to convert cubic feet to cubic yards. Multiplying by 1.4 converts to tons (average gravel density is about 1.4 tons per cubic yard).
How to use the Gravel Calculator
- 1
Enter your length (ft)
Value should be in ft.
- 2
Enter your width (ft)
Value should be in ft.
- 3
Enter your depth (in)
Value should be in in.
- 4
Read your results instantly
Results update in real time as you type.
Advertisement
Choosing the Right Gravel
Different gravel types suit different applications. Pea gravel (3/8 inch) is smooth and good for walkways and playgrounds. Crushed stone (#57 or #411) compacts well for driveways. Decomposed granite is ideal for paths and patios. River rock is decorative and good for drainage applications. Always confirm the density of your specific gravel type with your supplier — it affects tonnage calculations.
Driveway Depth Recommendations
A proper gravel driveway typically has two layers: a 4-inch compacted base of larger crushed stone (3/4 inch or larger) and a 2-inch top coat of smaller gravel. For heavy vehicles, increase the base to 6 inches. For foot-traffic-only paths, 2–3 inches of pea gravel is sufficient. Always compact the base layer with a plate compactor before adding the top layer.
Tips & Insights
Compact in Layers
For driveways and structural applications, apply gravel in 3-inch lifts and compact each layer separately. Dumping the full depth at once leads to poor compaction and rutting.
Use Geotextile Fabric
Lay landscape fabric or geotextile beneath gravel to prevent it from sinking into soft soil over time. This is especially important for driveways on clay soils.
Order by the Ton for Large Jobs
For jobs over 3 cubic yards, ordering by the ton is standard practice. Ask your supplier for the density of their specific product to convert back to cubic yards for coverage estimates.
Worked Examples
Gravel Driveway
8.89 cubic yards — order about 12.4 tons from a landscape supply company.
Garden Path
0.37 cubic yards — 20 bags of 50-lb gravel will cover this small path.
Advertisement
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of gravel are in a cubic yard?
On average, one cubic yard of gravel weighs about 1.4 tons (2,800 lbs). This varies by gravel type and moisture content.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
A total of 6 inches is recommended — 4 inches of compacted base material and 2 inches of surface gravel. High-traffic driveways benefit from 8–10 inches total.
How much does a ton of gravel cover?
One ton of gravel covers approximately 100 square feet at 2 inches deep or 50 square feet at 4 inches deep.
What is the difference between gravel and crushed stone?
Gravel is naturally rounded, worn smooth by water. Crushed stone is mechanically broken and has angular edges that interlock and compact better for structural uses like driveways.
Do I need edging for a gravel path?
Yes, edging (plastic, steel, or stone) is strongly recommended to keep gravel in place and give the path a clean, maintained look. Without it, gravel migrates into lawn and garden beds.
Advertisement