🪨 Gravel Calculator
Calculate gravel needed for driveways, paths, and landscaping
Enter dimensions to calculate gravel needed
Why Use Our Gravel Calculator?
🎯 Accurate Calculations
Calculate exact gravel amounts needed, preventing over-ordering and waste or under-ordering and delays.
⚡ Multiple Outputs
Get results in tons, cubic yards, and cubic feet – order in whatever unit suppliers use.
🪨 Gravel-Specific
Different gravel types have different densities. Our calculator accounts for 6 common types.
💰 Cost Estimator
Enter local price per ton to estimate total material cost before ordering.
📱 Field Ready
Use on-site with phone or tablet. Perfect for contractors and landscapers.
💯 Free Tool
No registration, unlimited calculations. Save time planning your project.
How to Use the Gravel Calculator
- Measure Your Area: Use a tape measure to find length and width of the area in feet. For irregular shapes, break into rectangles.
- Determine Depth: Choose appropriate depth based on project type – 4 inches for walkways, 6 inches for driveways, 2-3 inches for decorative coverage.
- Select Gravel Type: Choose from 6 common gravel types. Each has different density affecting weight and quantity needed.
- Add Price (Optional): Enter local price per ton from suppliers to see estimated total cost.
- Review Results: See cubic yards, tons, cubic feet, and estimated cost. Add 5-10% extra for settling and waste.
- Order Material: Use calculated tons or cubic yards when ordering from landscape supply companies.
Understanding Gravel Calculations
Gravel is sold by weight (tons) or volume (cubic yards). The conversion depends on gravel density, which varies by type. Heavier stone types like granite require fewer cubic yards to reach one ton.
Volume Calculation
Formula: Cubic Yards = (Length × Width × Depth in feet) ÷ 27
Example: 20 ft × 10 ft × 0.5 ft (6 inches) = 100 cubic feet ÷ 27 = 3.7 cubic yards
Weight Calculation
Formula: Tons = Cubic Yards × (Density in lbs/yd³ ÷ 2000)
Example: 3.7 yd³ × (2800 lbs/yd³ ÷ 2000) = 5.18 tons
Recommended Depths
- Decorative Coverage: 2-3 inches
- Walkways & Paths: 4 inches
- Patios: 4-6 inches
- Driveways (light use): 6-8 inches
- Driveways (heavy use): 8-12 inches
Gravel Types & Densities
| Gravel Type | Density (lbs/yd³) | Best Uses | Tons per Yard |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Purpose | 2,800 | Driveways, bases, fill | 1.4 |
| Pea Gravel | 2,700 | Paths, playgrounds, drainage | 1.35 |
| Crushed Stone | 3,000 | Driveways, drainage, base | 1.5 |
| River Rock | 2,500 | Decorative, gardens, paths | 1.25 |
| Limestone | 2,900 | Driveways, parking areas | 1.45 |
| Granite | 3,100 | High-traffic areas, driveways | 1.55 |
Benefits of Using a Gravel Calculator
💰 Save Money
Order exact quantities needed, avoiding expensive over-ordering or costly under-ordering requiring second deliveries.
⏰ Time Savings
Eliminate manual calculations and conversion lookups. Get all measurements instantly in one place.
📊 Budget Planning
Estimate total material costs before starting your project for accurate budgeting and quotes.
🚛 Proper Delivery
Know if you need one truckload or multiple, helping plan logistics and delivery scheduling.
✅ Professional Results
Proper depth and coverage ensures longevity and functionality of driveways, paths, and landscaping.
🔧 Project Planning
Calculate materials before starting helps plan equipment needs, labor time, and project scheduling.
Practical Applications
🚗 Driveway Construction
Calculate gravel for new driveways or resurfacing. Use 6-8 inch depth for residential, 8-12 inches for heavy vehicle traffic or weak soil.
🚶 Walkways & Paths
Determine amount for garden paths, side yards, or walkways. 4-inch depth provides good coverage and drainage for foot traffic.
🏠 Foundation Drainage
Calculate crushed stone needed for French drains, foundation perimeter drainage, or sump pump pits. Typically 4-6 inches deep.
🌳 Landscaping Projects
Figure quantities for decorative rock gardens, mulch replacement, or ground cover. Use 2-3 inch depth for aesthetics.
🏗️ Base Layer Preparation
Calculate gravel base needed under patios, sheds, or pavers. Proper base prevents settling and ensures level surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does a yard of gravel weigh?
A: Weight varies by type: pea gravel ~2,700 lbs/yd³, crushed stone ~3,000 lbs/yd³. One cubic yard typically weighs 1.25-1.5 tons. Our calculator accounts for different densities automatically.
Q: Should I order extra gravel?
A: Yes! Add 5-10% extra to account for settling, compaction, and uneven ground. Better to have extra than come up short and pay for second delivery.
Q: What depth of gravel do I need for a driveway?
A: Residential driveways need 6-8 inches minimum. Heavy vehicles or soft soil require 8-12 inches. Commercial driveways may need up to 18 inches depending on traffic.
Q: What’s the difference between cubic yards and tons?
A: Cubic yards measure volume (space), tons measure weight. Suppliers sell by either measurement. Use our calculator to convert between them based on gravel type.
Q: Can I use any type of gravel for my driveway?
A: Crushed stone or limestone work best for driveways – they compact well and provide stable surface. Pea gravel rolls under tires. River rock is decorative only.
Q: How do I measure irregular shaped areas?
A: Break the area into rectangles, calculate each section separately, then add totals together. For curves, approximate with rectangles or triangles.
Q: Will gravel compact over time?
A: Yes, gravel compacts 20-40% initially. This is why proper depth is crucial and why adding extra material is recommended. Roll or compact gravel after installation.
Related Construction Tools
Professional Installation Tips
Prepare Base Properly: Remove grass/soil, compact subgrade, use landscape fabric to prevent mixing with soil and reduce weed growth.
Edge Your Area: Install edging or borders to keep gravel contained. Without edges, gravel migrates into lawns and gardens.
Layer and Compact: Apply gravel in 2-3 inch layers, compacting each layer. This creates stable, long-lasting surface.
Grade for Drainage: Slope 1-2% away from buildings. Good drainage prevents water pooling and extends driveway life.
Conclusion
Our Gravel Calculator takes the guesswork out of ordering gravel for driveways, paths, and landscaping projects. By accounting for different gravel types, densities, and providing cost estimates, this tool ensures you order the right amount the first time.
Accurate gravel calculations save time and money while ensuring professional results. Whether you’re a homeowner planning a DIY project or a contractor estimating materials, this calculator provides the precision needed for successful outcomes.
🪨 Calculate your gravel needs now – free, accurate, and designed for real-world construction projects!