Gravel Calculator
Estimate gravel volume and weight for driveways, paths, and drainage projects.
Volume = (10 × 10 × 4) / (27 × 12) × (1 + 0.05) = 1.296 yd³
Weight = 1.296 yd³ × density = 3500 lbs = 1.75 tons
How It Works
- 1
Measure the area
Measure the length and width of your project area in feet. For irregular shapes, break them into rectangles and sum the areas.
- 2
Choose gravel type and depth
Select the gravel type (pea gravel, crushed stone, river rock, etc.) and enter your desired depth in inches. Use 2-4 inches for paths, 4-6 for driveways, 6-12 for drainage.
- 3
Review volume and weight
Read the total volume in cubic yards and weight in tons. Use the tonnage figure when ordering from a supplier, as most sell by weight.
How to Estimate Gravel for Your Project
Gravel serves as a foundation material in driveways, walkways, drainage beds, and building foundations. Unlike soil or sand, gravel provides both structural support and water permeability, making it essential for projects where load-bearing capacity and drainage coexist. The aggregate industry classifies gravel by particle size and shape; ASTM C33 covers graded aggregate specifications for concrete, while landscape and fill applications follow supplier-defined sizing standards. Bulk density varies significantly by type: lava rock weighs roughly 1,500 lbs per cubic yard, while decomposed granite can reach 3,000 lbs per cubic yard depending on moisture content. This difference matters for delivery costs, since most suppliers price by the ton rather than by volume. Standard depth recommendations depend on the application. Paths and garden borders typically need 2 to 4 inches of gravel. Driveways require 4 to 6 inches, often placed in two lifts with compaction between layers. French drains and drainage beds call for 6 to 12 inches of coarse aggregate, usually #57 crushed stone or larger. Always measure the longest and widest points of your area, then add 5 to 10 percent for waste from spreading, compaction settling, and irregular edges. A cubic yard of most gravel covers about 100 square feet at 3 inches deep, which serves as a useful rule of thumb when comparing supplier quotes.
Common Gravel Estimation Mistakes
Skipping compaction reduces effective depth by 20-30%. Crushed stone should be compacted in 4-inch lifts with a plate compactor or roller to reach target density.
Round and decorative stones (pea gravel, river rock) have more void space than angular crushed stone, so they settle more and may need 10-15% extra material.
Heavy rain displaces gravel on slopes steeper than 5% grade. Install landscape edging or a perimeter retaining border before spreading material.
Most suppliers sell by the ton, not by the cubic yard. Always convert your volume estimate to tonnage before calling for a quote to avoid ordering errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much gravel do I need for a driveway?
A standard two-car driveway (12 ft wide, 40 ft long) at 4 inches deep requires about 6 cubic yards or roughly 8 tons of crushed stone. For heavier vehicles or soft subgrade, increase depth to 6 inches, which brings the total to about 9 cubic yards or 12 tons.
How many tons is a cubic yard of gravel?
Most gravel types (crushed stone, pea gravel, river rock, limestone) weigh approximately 2,700 lbs per cubic yard, or 1.35 tons. Decomposed granite is heavier at about 1.5 tons per cubic yard. Lava rock is the lightest at roughly 0.75 tons per cubic yard.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
Driveways typically need 4 to 6 inches of gravel, placed in two lifts of 2 to 3 inches each with compaction between layers. For heavy truck traffic, increase to 8 inches total. The base layer should use angular crushed stone (#57 or #67), while the top layer can use a finer grade for a smoother surface.
What's the cheapest type of gravel?
Crushed stone and limestone are generally the least expensive options at $30 to $50 per ton delivered. Pea gravel runs $35 to $55 per ton. Decorative options like marble chips and river rock cost $50 to $100+ per ton. Decomposed granite falls in the mid-range at $40 to $60 per ton.
How much does a truckload of gravel cover?
A standard dump truck holds 10 to 14 tons (about 8 to 10 cubic yards). At 3 inches deep, that covers roughly 800 to 1,080 square feet. At 4 inches deep, coverage drops to 600 to 810 square feet. Always confirm the truck capacity with your supplier before ordering.
Does gravel need to be compacted?
Yes, for driveways, parking areas, and any load-bearing surface. Compaction increases density, prevents settling, and improves drainage. Use a plate compactor or roller, and compact in lifts of 4 inches or less. Decorative-only applications like garden paths may not require compaction.
What type of gravel is best for drainage?
Clean-washed #57 crushed stone (3/4 to 1 inch diameter) is the standard for French drains and drainage beds. Its angular shape locks together while maintaining large void spaces for water flow. Avoid using pea gravel or fine gravel for drainage, as the smaller particles restrict water movement.
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