Gravel Calculator
Calculate cubic yards and tons of gravel for driveways, paths and bases.
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Currency: Amounts are calculated in the currency you select; this site does not convert between currencies and does not use live exchange rates.
What this tool does
The Gravel Calculator gives the cubic yards and tons of gravel for a driveway, patio base or path from its dimensions and depth, using density for pea gravel, crushed stone, crusher run or decomposed granite.
How to use the Gravel Calculator
- Measure the length and width of the area.
- Enter the depth you want to fill.
- Choose the material so the correct density is used.
- Enter your supplier's price per ton.
- Order the volume or tonnage shown, rounded up.
Formula
yd³ = L × W × (D ÷ 12) ÷ 27; tons = yd³ × density ÷ 2,000
- L, W
- Length and width in feet
- D
- Depth in inches
- density
- Material weight in lb per cubic yard
Densities are typical loose values; moisture and gradation change actual weight by ±10%.
Worked example
A 20 × 10 ft area filled 4 in deep with crushed stone / #57.
Inputs
- Length20 ft
- Width10 ft
- Depth4 in
- MaterialCrushed stone / #57 (2,700 lb/yd³)
- Price per ton$45
Result
- Volume needed2.47 cu yd
- Weight3.33 US tons
- Volume66.67 cu ft
- Area covered200 sq ft
- Estimated cost$150.00
Material density (per cubic yard)
| Material | Weight | US tons |
|---|---|---|
| Pea gravel | 2,600 lb | 1.30 tons |
| Crushed stone / #57 | 2,700 lb | 1.35 tons |
| Crusher run / road base | 2,900 lb | 1.45 tons |
| Decomposed granite | 2,800 lb | 1.40 tons |
Results explained
- Volume needed
- Cubic yards to order (how most yards sell bulk material).
- Weight
- Tons, for quarries that sell by weight and to check truck capacity.
- Volume (cu ft)
- Same volume in cubic feet, useful for bagged products.
- Area covered
- Surface area of the bed or base.
- Estimated cost
- Tons × your price per ton, before delivery.
Frequently asked questions
Calculate cubic yards (L × W × D ÷ 27, with D in feet) and multiply by about 1.35 tons per yard for crushed stone.
8–12 inches total in layers: a 4–6 in base of larger stone, then 4 in of smaller top stone.
About 80 sq ft at 4 inches deep for crushed stone.
Pea gravel or decomposed granite 2–3 in deep over landscape fabric.
Crusher run compacts 15–20%; add extra volume if you'll compact it with a plate.