Gravel Calculator - Calculate Gravel Tons and Cubic Yards
Free gravel calculator. Calculate exact tons, cubic yards, and cubic feet for driveways, paths, and landscaping. Supports 6 gravel sizes with weight factors.
Area Configuration
Enter the desired final compacted depth
Application & Compaction
12% is typical for angular crushed gravel
Enter all dimensions to see results.
About This Calculator
How to Calculate Gravel Needed
Measuring Tips
- Measure length and width in feet using a tape measure or measuring wheel
- For irregular areas, break into rectangular sections and calculate separately
- Account for slope and drainage when determining depth
- Compact the sub-base before calculating gravel depth
- Order 5-10% extra for compaction and waste
Gravel Size Guide
| Size | Best For | Weight/CY |
|---|---|---|
| #1 (3-4") | Base layer, drainage | ~1.5 tons |
| #3 (1-2") | Driveway base | ~1.4 tons |
| #57 (3/4") | Driveways, paths | ~1.35 tons |
| #8 (3/8") | Walkways, decorative | ~1.3 tons |
| Pea Gravel | Patios, landscaping | ~1.2 tons |
Tips for Best Results
- Install landscape fabric underneath to prevent weed growth
- Use edging to keep gravel contained
- Compact each layer before adding the next
- Consider drainage patterns when planning depth
- Order from local suppliers to reduce delivery costs
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate how much gravel I need?
Measure the length, width, and desired depth of the area in feet. Multiply these together to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. Multiply cubic yards by the gravel weight factor (typically 1.3-1.5 tons per cubic yard) to get tons needed.
How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
A cubic yard of gravel typically weighs 2,400-2,900 pounds (1.2-1.45 tons). The exact weight depends on the gravel size and type. Crushed stone weighs about 2,700 lbs per cubic yard, while pea gravel weighs around 2,400 lbs per cubic yard.
What size gravel should I use for a driveway?
For driveways, #3 gravel (1-2 inches) is commonly used as a base layer, topped with #57 or #411 gravel (3/4 inch) for the surface. This combination provides good drainage and a stable driving surface.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
A gravel driveway should have 4-6 inches of base layer (larger stone) and 2-3 inches of top layer (smaller gravel). Total depth of 6-8 inches provides adequate support for vehicle traffic.
How many tons of gravel do I need for 100 square feet?
For 100 square feet at 4 inches deep, you need approximately 1.23 cubic yards or 1.6-1.8 tons of gravel. At 6 inches deep, you need about 1.85 cubic yards or 2.4-2.7 tons.