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Gravel Calculator

Calculate gravel, crushed stone, or pea gravel needed for driveways, patios, and landscaping. Get cubic yards, tons, and cost estimates.

Common gravel density is ~2,700 lb/yd³

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How to Calculate Gravel

Measure length and width in feet, choose your depth, then use: Cubic Yards = Area (sq ft) × Depth (inches) ÷ 324. This calculator converts to cubic yards and estimates weight based on material density.

Example: 20×30 Driveway

  • Area: 600 sq ft at 4 inches deep
  • Volume: 600 × 4 ÷ 324 = 7.4 cubic yards
  • Weight: 7.4 × 2,700 lbs = ~10 tons
  • Cost at $40/yard: approximately $296 for materials

Recommended Depths

  • 2-3 inches: Decorative ground cover, garden paths
  • 3-4 inches: Patios, walkways, landscape beds
  • 4-6 inches: Driveways, parking areas (use 6" for heavy vehicles)
  • 6-8 inches: Road base, heavy traffic areas, drainage beds

Choosing the Right Gravel

  • Pea gravel: Smooth, rounded, 3/8" diameter. Good for walkways, drainage, playgrounds. Doesn't compact — shifts underfoot. $30-50/yard
  • Crushed stone (#57): Angular, 3/4" to 1". Interlocks and compacts well — best for driveways and base layers. $30-45/yard
  • Crusher run (#411): Mix of crushed stone and stone dust. Compacts into a firm surface. Best sub-base for driveways and patios. $25-40/yard
  • River rock: Rounded, 1-3" decorative stones. Permanent landscaping, dry creek beds, drainage. $40-80/yard
  • Decomposed granite: Fine, sandy texture. Natural look for paths and patios. Compacts moderately. $35-55/yard

Gravel Driveway Layers

A properly built gravel driveway has three layers:

  1. Base layer (4"): Large crushed stone (#3 or #4) for drainage and stability
  2. Middle layer (4"): Medium crushed stone (#57) fills gaps in the base
  3. Top layer (2-3"): Finer stone (#8 or crusher run) creates a smooth driving surface

Compact each layer with a plate compactor or roller before adding the next.

Ordering Tips

  • Order 10-15% extra for waste, uneven terrain, and settling over time
  • Bulk delivery ($30-50/yard) is much cheaper than bags for projects over 1-2 yards
  • Delivery trucks need access — check clearance and weight limits for your driveway
  • Install landscape fabric underneath to prevent weeds. Overlap seams by 6 inches
  • Edge with metal, plastic, or stone borders to keep gravel contained

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Frequently Asked Questions

How deep should gravel be for a driveway?

A gravel driveway typically needs 4-6 inches of gravel. Use 6 inches for heavy traffic and 4 inches for light use.

How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?

Most gravel weighs about 2,700 lbs (1.35 tons) per cubic yard, though this varies by type and moisture content.

How much area does a ton of gravel cover?

One ton of gravel covers roughly 80 sq ft at 3 inches deep or 50 sq ft at 5 inches deep.

What is the cheapest type of gravel?

Crushed stone and pea gravel are typically the most affordable at $30-50 per cubic yard. Decorative river rock costs more.