How to calculate gravel
- Find the area: length × width for a driveway or path.
- Multiply by the depth to get volume. Convert inches to feet first (divide by 12).
- Divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards.
- Multiply by the weight per cubic yard if your supplier sells by the ton.
Worked example: a 50 × 10 ft driveway, 4 in deep
500 sq ft × 0.333 ft = 166.7 cubic feet, or 6.2 cubic yards. At about 1.4 tons per yard that is roughly 8.6 tons. With 5% extra for compaction, order about 6.5 yards or 9 tons.
How much does a yard of gravel weigh?
Weight depends on the stone, its size and how wet it is, which is why the calculator lets you change it. Typical ranges:
| Material | Approximate weight per cubic yard |
|---|---|
| Pea gravel | 1.3–1.5 tons |
| Crushed stone (¾ in) | 1.3–1.5 tons |
| Crusher run / road base (with fines) | 1.4–1.6 tons |
These are planning figures. When a supplier sells by the ton, ask them for their conversion. Quarries know the weight of their own stone.
How deep should gravel be?
| Project | Depth |
|---|---|
| Decorative top layer or garden path | 2–3 in (5–7.5 cm) |
| Patio or paver base | 4–6 in (10–15 cm), compacted in layers |
| Driveway | Often 8–12 in in total: a coarse base, then a finer top layer |
For a driveway, calculate each layer separately, since the base and top layers are usually different stone sold at different prices.