Gravel Calculator
A gravel calculator works out how much gravel you need by multiplying the area you are covering by the depth of gravel, giving a volume in cubic yards, then converting to tons using the weight of gravel. Enter your length, width and depth below to get cubic yards, tons, and an estimated cost.
depth in inches; gravel density from BULK_REFERENCES (~1.4 tons per cubic yard).
- Tons
- 0
- Estimated cost
- $0.00
Enter your dimensions to see the result.
Estimate only. Material yields and prices vary by supplier and region; confirm before ordering.
How Do You Calculate How Much Gravel You Need?
To calculate gravel, multiply the length by the width of your area to get the square footage, then multiply by the depth in feet to get cubic feet, and divide by 27 for cubic yards. To get tons, multiply the cubic yards by the weight of gravel, about 1.4 tons per cubic yard. For example, a 20 by 10 foot area at 3 inches deep is 50 cubic feet, about 1.85 cubic yards, or roughly 2.6 tons. The calculator above does this instantly.
Is Gravel Sold by the Yard or the Ton?
Gravel is sold both ways, which is why a good calculator gives both numbers. Bulk gravel is often priced per ton at the quarry and per cubic yard when delivered by volume. One cubic yard of gravel weighs roughly 1.4 tons, though the exact figure depends on the stone type and moisture. Knowing both your cubic yards and your tons lets you order correctly whichever way your supplier prices it.
How Deep Should Gravel Be?
Depth depends on the use. A decorative gravel layer is often 2 inches, a walkable path 2 to 3 inches, and a gravel driveway needs more, typically 4 to 6 inches and often built in layers with a coarser base. Depth multiplies directly into volume, so doubling the depth doubles the gravel needed. Set the right depth in the calculator for your project so the order matches reality.
What Type of Gravel Should You Calculate For?
Different gravels suit different jobs, and they weigh slightly differently. Pea gravel is small and rounded, good for paths and patios. Crushed stone is angular and locks together, ideal for driveways and bases. Each has its own page and calculator below for a precise estimate, since coverage is similar but the look, use and packing differ. Pick the matching child calculator for your material.
Calculators in this family
How Do You Calculate Gravel Needed?
Formula
Cubic Yards = Length (ft) x Width (ft) x Depth (ft) / 27; Tons = Cubic Yards x 1.4
- Measure the area length and width in feet, and choose a depth.
- Convert the depth from inches to feet by dividing by 12.
- Multiply length by width by depth for cubic feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards.
- Multiply cubic yards by about 1.4 to get tons, since gravel is often sold by the ton.
Worked example
A 20 ft x 10 ft area at 3 inches deep: 3 / 12 = 0.25 ft; 20 x 10 x 0.25 = 50 cubic feet; 50 / 27 = about 1.85 cubic yards; 1.85 x 1.4 = about 2.6 tons.
- Use 2 inches for a topping, 4 inches for walkways, and 4 to 6 inches for a driveway over a base.
- Gravel density varies, so the tons figure is an estimate; confirm with your supplier.
See how much gravel you need (reference table by area and depth)
Frequently asked questions
- How much gravel do I need for a 20x10 area?
- A 20 by 10 foot area at 3 inches deep needs about 1.85 cubic yards, or roughly 2.6 tons of gravel. At 4 inches deep it needs about 2.47 cubic yards, or 3.5 tons.
- How many tons of gravel are in a cubic yard?
- One cubic yard of gravel weighs about 1.4 tons, though it ranges with stone type and moisture. Multiply your cubic yards by 1.4 for an approximate tonnage.
- How deep should a gravel driveway be?
- A gravel driveway is usually 4 to 6 inches deep, often built in layers with a coarser base stone under a finer top. Deeper gravel handles vehicle weight better.
- Is gravel cheaper by the ton or the yard?
- It depends on the supplier and delivery. Quarries often price per ton, while delivered bulk gravel may be priced per cubic yard. The calculator gives both so you can compare quotes.
- How do you calculate gravel for a driveway?
- Multiply the driveway area by the depth in feet (use 4 to 6 inches), divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by about 1.4 for tons. Confirm the density with your supplier.