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Landscape & Aggregates

Gravel Calculator

This gravel calculator gives cubic yards and tons for driveways, paths and bases; our driveway installation guide covers base depth and layers. Gravel is sold by the ton at most quarries and by the cubic yard at many landscape yards, so this calculator gives both. Enter the area and depth; the default density (1.4 tons per cubic yard) is a common middle value for crushed gravel, but the right number depends on the stone and its moisture — your supplier can tell you.

Results from this gravel calculator are planning estimates; confirm quantities and prices with your supplier or contractor before you order.

Enter your project

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tons/yd³

Typical gravels about 1.2–1.5 tons/yd³; ask your supplier.

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Extra for compaction, uneven ground and spillage.

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Results

Your results will appear here

Enter your measurements and press Calculate. Defaults show a typical example.

How to use the gravel calculator

  1. Choose the shape and enter dimensions (or a known area).
  2. Enter the depth: 2–3 in for paths, 4–6 in or more for driveways (often in layers).
  3. Use your supplier's density and price to convert to tons and cost.

Formula

Cubic yards = area (sq ft) × depth (in) ÷ 12 ÷ 27 × (1 + waste). Tons = cubic yards × density.

Worked example

A 10 × 50 ft gravel driveway at 4 in deep: 500 × 0.333 = 166.7 ft³; with 5% extra, 175 ft³ = 6.48 yd³ ≈ 9.1 tons at 1.4 tons/yd³.

Tips for using the gravel calculator

  • Ask your quarry for the density of the exact gravel you are buying; it varies by stone type.
  • Compacted gravel takes up less space, so order about 10% more for compacted layers.
  • Lay landscape fabric under paths to slow weeds and keep gravel from sinking into soil.
Close-up of mixed crushed gravel aggregate

Gravel Calculator FAQs

How many tons of gravel are in a yard?

Commonly about 1.2–1.5 tons per cubic yard depending on stone type, size and moisture. Ask your supplier for their figure.

How deep should a gravel driveway be?

Gravel driveways are typically built in layers — a coarse base and a finer top layer — often totaling 4–12 in depending on soil and traffic. See our driveway guide.

How much does gravel cost?

National pricing puts driveway gravel at about $15–$75 per cubic yard and gravel driveways at about $1–$3 per sq ft. Prices vary by region and stone.

Estimate before you call a contractor

Run the numbers with our free calculators so you can compare bids with confidence.

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