Gravel Calculator
How much gravel do you need? Enter the area and depth for cubic yards, tons, and cost.
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Estimated tons needed—
Cubic feet—
Estimated cost—
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How this calculator works
It calculates the volume of your area, converts it to cubic yards, then to tons using a typical gravel weight of about 1.4 tons per cubic yard.
Worked example — a 20 ft × 10 ft driveway at 4 inches:
20 × 10 × (4 ÷ 12) = 66.7 cubic feet → ÷ 27 = 2.47 cubic yards → × 1.4 = 3.46 tons.
How deep should gravel be?
For a walking path, 2 inches is plenty. For a driveway that holds vehicle weight, aim for 4 inches of gravel over a compacted base.
Frequently asked questions
How many tons of gravel are in a cubic yard?
About 1.4 tons, varying from 1.4 to 1.5 by stone type and moisture.
How much gravel for a driveway?
A 20 × 10 ft driveway at 4 inches deep needs roughly 2.5 cubic yards (~3.4 tons).
Planning a landscaping project
Measure each section separately when a bed or lawn is not a perfect rectangle, then add the sections together. Depth, moisture, compaction, and the way a supplier loads material can change the final quantity, so use the result as a purchasing estimate and confirm the supplier's coverage information.
How to use this estimate
- Measure the project in the units shown and recheck your measurements before ordering.
- Use the waste allowance as a planning buffer, not as a substitute for a detailed material takeoff.
- Compare the result with the package yield, coverage, or weight listed by your supplier.
- Prices are user-entered estimates and may change by location, product, delivery, and season.
Accuracy and limitations
Calculapedia provides educational planning estimates. It does not inspect your site, select products, guarantee quantities, or replace a contractor, engineer, architect, building official, or supplier. Confirm the final quantity and any safety or code requirements before buying or building.