How many tons of gravel do I need?

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.

How deep should a gravel driveway be?

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.

What is the best gravel for a driveway?

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.

How many square feet does a ton of gravel cover?

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.

Should I put landscape fabric under gravel?

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.

← All calculators

Gravel Calculator

Estimate gravel for driveways, pathways, and drainage

0 calculations

Last verified: February 2026Accuracy tested

Calculated in your browser — we never store your dataIncludes standard waste factors

Length (ft)

Width (ft)

Depth (inches)

Price per Ton ($)

● National avg · updated Feb 20

Calculation Result

0.00 cubic yards

~1.73 tons (using 1.4 tons/yd³)

Estimated cost: $86

Based on standard gravel density

Material Breakdown

Cubic Yards1.23

Tons1.73

Standard gravel weighs ~1.4 tons per cubic yard. Consider adding 10% extra for settling.

Cost by Gravel Type

Pea Gravel

$60

Crushed Stone

$86

River Rock

$130

Decomposed Granite

$104

Sources & Methodology

Formula: Tons = (L × W × D / 27) × Material Density

Volume converted to weight by material type

Source: Aggregate material density standards

Density varies: Gravel ~1.4 tons/yd³, Crushed stone ~1.35 tons/yd³

View full methodology & accuracy testing

Think this result is wrong? Report an error

calc.alsoTry:Concrete Mulch Square Footage Fence

Popular Calculations

Estimate Your Project Cost

See gravel project costs with delivery and spreading →

Gravel Delivery & Spreading Cost on CostOnce.com

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. Need to measure the area first? Use our square footage calculator.

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.

Related Outdoor Calculators

For driveway projects, combine with our concrete calculator for edging or a concrete pad. Add landscaping with our mulch calculator for garden beds, or plan borders with the fence calculator.

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.