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Gravel Calculator
Calculate how much gravel, crushed stone, or sand you need in cubic yards and tons. Includes material density options and cost estimates.
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Gravel Calculator
Gravel Calculator Formula
Volume (ft³) = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (ft)
Volume (yd³) = Volume (ft³) ÷ 27
Weight (tons) = Volume (yd³) × Density (tons/yd³)
Volume (yd³) = Volume (ft³) ÷ 27
Weight (tons) = Volume (yd³) × Density (tons/yd³)
Gravel Depth Guide by Application
| Application | Recommended Depth | Coverage per ton |
|---|---|---|
| Residential driveway (base) | 4–6 inches | ~80 sq ft at 4" |
| Driveway surface (top layer) | 2–3 inches | ~160 sq ft at 2" |
| Garden path | 2–3 inches | ~160 sq ft at 2" |
| Landscape beds | 2 inches | ~240 sq ft at 2" |
| French drain / drainage | 6–12 inches | ~40 sq ft at 12" |
| Concrete sub-base | 4 inches | ~80 sq ft at 4" |
Gravel Density Reference
| Material | Tons per Cubic Yard | Lbs per Cubic Foot |
|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel | 1.35–1.45 | 100–107 |
| Crushed Stone (limestone) | 1.4–1.5 | 103–111 |
| Crushed Granite | 1.45–1.55 | 107–115 |
| River Rock | 1.35–1.45 | 100–107 |
| Sand (dry) | 1.3–1.45 | 96–107 |
| Fill Dirt | 1.0–1.2 | 74–89 |
| Mulch (shredded) | 0.35–0.45 | 26–33 |
How to Lay a Gravel Driveway
- Excavate — Remove 6–8 inches of topsoil from the driveway area.
- Grade and compact — Ensure proper drainage slope (at least 2% grade away from structures).
- Install landscape fabric — Prevents weeds without blocking drainage.
- Base layer — Add 4 inches of compacted crushed stone (Class 2 or 3/4" crusher run).
- Middle layer — Add 2 inches of smaller crushed stone (1/2" minus).
- Top layer — Finish with 2 inches of pea gravel or decorative stone.
- Install edging — Metal or plastic edging keeps gravel in place.
? Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of gravel do I need for a driveway?
A standard single-car driveway (10 ft × 20 ft) at 4 inches deep requires about 2.5 cubic yards or 3.5 tons of gravel. A two-car driveway (20 ft × 20 ft) at 4 inches needs about 5 cubic yards or 7 tons. Our calculator handles any size.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
For a residential driveway, use 3–4 inches of compacted gravel as a base layer, plus 2–3 inches of surface gravel on top, for a total of 5–7 inches. For heavy traffic or soft soil, increase the base to 6 inches.
How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
It depends on the type. Pea gravel and river rock: about 1.4 tons per yard. Crushed stone (limestone/granite): 1.5 tons per yard. Sand: about 1.35 tons per yard. Topsoil: 1.1 tons per yard.
How many cubic yards are in a ton of gravel?
Divide 1 ton by the density. For standard gravel (1.4 tons/yard), 1 ton equals about 0.71 cubic yards. For crushed stone (1.5 tons/yard), 1 ton equals about 0.67 cubic yards.
Can I use the gravel calculator for sand?
Yes! Our calculator includes sand as a material option with its specific density (1.35 tons/yard). Just select "Sand" from the material dropdown and enter your dimensions.
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💡 Pro Tips
- ✅ Install landscape fabric first to prevent weeds
- ✅ Use 3 layers for driveways: base, mid, surface
- ✅ Add 10% extra for compaction and settling
- ✅ Slope driveways 2% away from structures