How Much Gravel Do I Need?
How much gravel you need is your area times the depth, converted to cubic yards and tons. At a 2 inch depth, a 100 square foot area needs about 0.62 cubic yards, or roughly 0.86 tons. The table below covers common sizes, and the calculator works out your exact amount, since gravel is sold by both the yard and the ton.
| Area | Cubic yards | Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft | 0.62 | 0.86 |
| 200 sq ft | 1.23 | 1.73 |
| 500 sq ft | 3.09 | 4.32 |
| 1000 sq ft | 6.17 | 8.64 |
Get your exact number
Calculate your exact amount with the gravel calculatorHow Do You Calculate Gravel Needed?
To calculate gravel, multiply the area by the depth in feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. A 500 square foot area at 2 inches deep is about 83 cubic feet, or 3.09 cubic yards. To convert to tons, multiply cubic yards by about 1.4, the typical density of gravel. A driveway usually needs 4 to 6 inches of gravel over a base, so use a greater depth for those. The calculator handles both yards and tons.
How Deep Should Gravel Be?
Gravel depth depends on the use: 2 inches for a decorative ground cover or topping, 4 inches for walkways and patios, and 4 to 6 inches or more for a driveway that bears vehicle weight, often in layered base and surface courses. Deeper gravel resists rutting and lasts longer under traffic. The table uses 2 inches; set a greater depth in the calculator for paths and driveways.
Related answers
Frequently asked questions
- How much gravel do I need for 100 square feet?
- At 2 inches deep, 100 square feet needs about 0.62 cubic yards, or roughly 0.86 tons.
- How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
- 4 to 6 inches or more for a driveway, usually in layered base and surface courses, to bear vehicle weight.
- How many tons in a yard of gravel?
- About 1.4 tons per cubic yard, varying with stone type and moisture.