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Gravel Calculator

Find how much gravel you need for a driveway, path, or base layer. Enter the area and depth to get cubic yards and an estimated weight in tons.

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ft
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Cubic yards
Approx. tons
Cubic feet

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Yards, tons, and depth

Gravel is sold by the cubic yard or by the ton; most gravel weighs roughly 1.4 tons per cubic yard, though this varies by stone type and moisture. For driveways, a 3–4 inch layer is typical over a compacted base. Order a little extra for settling and edges.

How it’s calculated

This calculator returns its result directly from the values you enter using standard arithmetic for this calculation; all figures are estimates for general information.

Results update as you type and are estimates, not professional advice β€” verify important decisions with a qualified professional.

Worked example

A 20x10 area 3 inches deep needs about 1.85 cubic yards, roughly 2.6 tons of gravel.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing cubic yards with tons β€” weight depends on the stone.
  • Skipping extra for settling and a compacted base.

Where it is used

  • Ordering gravel for a driveway, path, or base layer.
  • Converting volume to tons for delivery pricing.

Frequently asked questions

How deep should gravel be?

Walkways often use 2–3 inches; driveways 4–6 inches, sometimes in multiple layers over a base.

Cubic yards or tons?

Suppliers quote both. Use cubic yards for volume; tons depend on the specific stone's density (about 1.4 tons per yard is a common estimate).

Should I add extra?

Yes — 5–10% covers settling, uneven ground, and spillage.