Gravel Calculator

Calculate how much gravel you need for your project. Get volume in cubic yards, weight in tons, number of bags, and estimated cost for driveways, pathways, and landscaping.

Gravel Needed

Volume

2.47

cubic yards

Weight

3.33

tons

Cubic Feet66.7 cu ft
Weight (lbs)6,667 lbs
50lb Bags134
40lb Bags167
Truck Loads (10T)1
Estimated Cost

$133

Based on $40/ton for Crushed Stone

Units

Area Shape

Dimensions

Gravel Type

Price Per Ton

$40/ton
$20/ton$150/ton

Adjust based on local prices. Delivery typically adds $50-100.

Coverage Guide

How much area 1 cubic yard of gravel covers at different depths:

DepthCoverage (sq ft)Best For
2 inches162 sq ftDecorative landscaping
3 inches108 sq ftPathways, patios
4 inches81 sq ftDriveways, parking
6 inches54 sq ftHeavy traffic, base

Installation Tips

Order Extra

Add 10-15% extra for compaction, uneven ground, and waste.

Use Landscape Fabric

Prevents weeds and keeps gravel from sinking into soil.

Edge Restraints

Install edging to keep gravel contained and tidy.

Compact in Layers

Add gravel in 2-inch layers, compacting each layer.

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

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 × Width × Depth in feet) / 27. Add 10-15% for compaction and waste.
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).
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.
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.
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).
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.