Gravel Calculator
Tons & cubic yards needed
How to Use the Gravel Calculator
Estimate cubic yards and tons of gravel for driveways, pathways, drainage projects, or landscaping. We support both rectangular and circular areas.
Converting to Tons
We use a standard conversion factor of 1.4 tons per cubic yard, which works for most common gravel types. Heavier materials like crusite may weigh more, while lighter decorative gravels may weigh less.
Recommended Depths
- Driveways: 4-6 inches of gravel over compacted base
- Walkways: 2-3 inches
- Drainage: 6-12 inches depending on application
- Decorative: 2-3 inches
Preparation Tips
Always prepare the base properly by removing organic material, grading for drainage, and compacting. Consider using landscape fabric to prevent gravel from mixing with soil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Multiply length x width x depth (all in feet), then divide by 27 for cubic yards. A 50-foot long, 12-foot wide driveway at 4 inches (0.33 ft) deep needs (50 x 12 x 0.33) / 27 = 7.3 cubic yards. Add 10% for compaction and settling.
Multiply cubic yards by 1.4 to convert to tons for most gravel types. If you need 5 cubic yards, order 7 tons (5 x 1.4). Different materials vary - pea gravel is lighter (1.3 tons/yard), while dense crushed stone can be 1.5 tons/yard.
A proper gravel driveway needs 3 layers: 4-6 inches of large crushed stone base, 3-4 inches of medium gravel, and 2-3 inches of fine gravel or stone dust on top. Total depth should be 8-12 inches for vehicles, 4-6 inches for walkways.
Crushed stone (angular edges) packs better than round gravel. Use #3 or #4 stone (1-2 inches) for the base layer, #57 stone for drainage, and #411 or crusher run (stone dust mix) for the top layer. This combination provides stability and drainage.
At 2 inches deep, one ton of gravel covers approximately 100 square feet. At 4 inches deep, coverage drops to about 50 square feet per ton. Coverage varies by gravel size and type - smaller gravel covers more area.
Yes, landscape fabric helps prevent gravel from mixing with soil and reduces weed growth. Use commercial-grade woven fabric, not plastic sheeting, which traps water. In driveways, fabric is optional if using a proper layered stone base.