ð Quick Start - Project Presets
Select a common project type to quickly load dimensions and recommended material:
Units
Material Type
Project Areas
Add multiple sections to calculate irregular or multi-area projects. Total: 1 section(s)
Section 1
Pricing
Adjust based on local prices. Delivery typically adds $50-150.
Quick Answer
To calculate gravel: multiply area (length x width in feet) by depth in feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by 1.4 for tons (average gravel weight). Formula: (Length x Width x Depth) / 27 x 1.4 = Tons. For a 20x30 ft driveway with 4 inches of gravel: (20 x 30 x 0.33) / 27 x 1.4 = 10.3 tons. Gravel weighs approximately 2,800 lbs (1.4 tons) per cubic yard.
Key Facts
- Formula: Cubic Yards = (Length x Width x Depth in feet) / 27
- Average gravel: 1 cubic yard = ~2,800 lbs (1.4 tons)
- Driveway recommended depth: 4-6 inches (base + top layer)
- Walkways and patios: 2-3 inches depth
- Pea gravel weighs less: ~2,400 lbs per cubic yard
- Crushed stone weighs more: ~2,700-3,000 lbs per cubic yard
- 1 ton of gravel covers approximately 80-100 sq ft at 2" depth
- Add 10% extra for compaction and spreading loss
Frequently Asked Questions
How much gravel do I need?
Measure your area's length, width, and desired depth. For driveways, use 4-6 inches depth; for pathways, 2-3 inches; for drainage, 6-12 inches. Calculate cubic yards: (Length à Width à Depth in feet) / 27. Add 10-15% for compaction and waste.
How much does gravel weigh?
Gravel typically weighs 2,800-3,000 lbs per cubic yard (about 1.4-1.5 tons). One cubic foot weighs 95-105 lbs depending on type. Pea gravel is lighter (~96 lbs/cu ft), while crushed stone is denser (~100 lbs/cu ft).
What depth of gravel should I use?
Driveways: 4-6 inches (minimum 4" for vehicle traffic). Walkways/patios: 2-3 inches. Decorative landscaping: 2-3 inches. French drains: 6-12 inches. Under pavers: 4-6 inch base. Always compact gravel in 2-inch layers.
What type of gravel should I use?
Crushed stone: driveways, paths (angular, locks together). Pea gravel: landscaping, patios (smooth, decorative). River rock: drainage, xeriscaping. Limestone: base material. Choice depends on appearance, function, and traffic.
How much does gravel cost?
Bulk gravel costs $15-75 per cubic yard or $30-80 per ton, depending on type. Pea gravel: $30-40/ton. Crushed stone: $35-50/ton. Decorative stone: $50-150/ton. Delivery adds $50-100. Bagged gravel costs more ($4-6 per 50lb bag).
How do I calculate gravel for irregular shapes?
Break irregular areas into rectangles and triangles, calculate each separately, then add together. For curves, approximate with a circle or series of smaller shapes. Always round up and add 10-15% extra material.