Free construction calculator
Gravel Calculator
Estimate gravel volume, weight, bulk yards, bags, and material cost for driveways, walkways, patios, drainage, and landscaping projects.
Estimated order quantity
0.00 cubic yards
Round up to the supplier’s available delivery increment. Density, moisture, compaction, and local product specifications affect the final quantity.
How to calculate how much gravel you need
Measure the project area, choose the finished gravel depth, and convert the volume to cubic yards. The calculator then applies an approximate material density to estimate weight in US tons.
Circle: π × Radius² × Depth = Volume
Because excavation edges, grading, compaction, and delivery quantities are rarely exact, adding 5% to 15% is common. A 10% allowance is a practical starting point for most residential projects.
Recommended gravel depth by project
| Project | Typical compacted depth | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Walkway or garden path | 2–3 inches | Use landscape fabric where appropriate. |
| Patio base | 4–6 inches | Compact in lifts for a stable base. |
| Residential driveway | 6–12 inches | Base and surface layers may use different stone sizes. |
| Drainage trench | Project specific | Follow the drainage design and local requirements. |
| Decorative landscaping | 2–3 inches | Depth depends on stone size and desired coverage. |
Gravel density and weight
Bulk density varies by stone type, gradation, moisture, and compaction. For estimating, one cubic yard of gravel commonly weighs about 2,600 to 2,800 pounds, or roughly 1.3 to 1.4 US tons. Confirm the supplier’s product weight before ordering a large load.
Example calculation
A 20 ft × 10 ft area at 4 inches deep has a base volume of approximately 2.47 cubic yards. Adding 10% waste produces an order estimate of about 2.72 cubic yards. At an estimated density of 2,800 lb/yd³, that is approximately 3.81 US tons.
Common questions
Gravel calculator FAQ
How many square feet does one ton of gravel cover?
Coverage depends on depth and density. At 2 inches deep, one ton of typical gravel may cover roughly 80 to 100 square feet. Supplier specifications provide the best estimate.
How many cubic yards are in a ton of gravel?
There is no single conversion because densities vary. Typical gravel is often about 1.3 to 1.4 US tons per cubic yard.
Should I order gravel by the ton or cubic yard?
Use the unit offered by your local supplier. This calculator shows both so you can compare quotes and delivery options.
How much extra gravel should I order?
For many residential projects, 10% is a practical allowance. Irregular areas, deeper excavation, or uncertain grading may justify 15%.
Does gravel need to be compacted?
Base material for driveways and patios usually requires compaction in layers. Decorative stone may only need light settling. Follow the project design and product guidance.