ConstructionInstant Tool
Gravel Calculator
Calculate tons and cubic yards of gravel needed for driveways, paths, and landscaping.
ft
ft
in
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How Gravel Calculator Works
Cubic Yards = Length ft × Width ft × Depth ft / 27 | Tons = Cubic Yards × Material DensityGravel volume is calculated by multiplying area by depth converted to feet and dividing by 27 to obtain cubic yards. Crushed stone weighs approximately 1.4 tons per cubic yard, pea gravel weighs about 1.45 tons, and dense crusher run weighs 1.50 tons per cubic yard.
Variable Breakdown
L
LengthSurface length in feet
W
WidthSurface width in feet
D
DepthLayer thickness in inches divided by 12
Density
Aggregate DensityTons per cubic yard, typically 1.40 tons for crushed stone
Example Calculation
Residential Gravel Driveway
A driveway measuring 50 feet long by 10 feet wide with a 4-inch crushed stone base at 1.4 tons per cubic yard.
- Calculate surface area: 50 ft × 10 ft = 500 sq ft.
- Convert depth to feet: 4 inches ÷ 12 = 0.333 ft.
- Calculate cubic feet: 500 sq ft × 0.333 ft = 166.67 cu ft.
- Convert to cubic yards: 166.67 cu ft ÷ 27 = 6.17 yd³.
- Multiply by material density: 6.17 yd³ × 1.4 tons/yd³ = 8.64 tons.
Result:8.64 Tons - 6.17 Cubic Yards
Gravel Aggregate Densities and Coverage
| Material Type | Tons per Yard | Pounds per Yard | Coverage at 3 Inches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crushed Stone #57 | 1.40 tons | 2800 lbs | 65 sq ft per ton |
| Pea Gravel Round | 1.45 tons | 2900 lbs | 62 sq ft per ton |
| Crusher Run with Fines | 1.50 tons | 3000 lbs | 60 sq ft per ton |
| Decomposed Granite | 1.35 tons | 2700 lbs | 67 sq ft per ton |
| River Rock 1 to 3 Inch | 1.30 tons | 2600 lbs | 70 sq ft per ton |
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
A standard gravel driveway should be between 4 and 6 inches deep, laid over a compacted sub-base or landscape fabric to prevent sinking.
How many tons is 1 cubic yard of gravel?
One cubic yard of typical crushed stone weighs approximately 1.4 tons or 2800 pounds. Dense compacted crusher run can weigh up to 1.5 tons per yard.
How do I calculate how much gravel I need?
Multiply length in feet by width in feet by depth in inches divided by 12. Divide by 27 to get cubic yards. Multiply cubic yards by 1.4 to calculate tons.
How many square feet does 1 ton of gravel cover?
At a 2-inch depth, 1 ton covers approximately 100 square feet. At a 3-inch depth, it covers about 65 square feet. At a 4-inch depth, it covers roughly 50 square feet.
What is the best gravel size for a driveway?
Number 57 crushed stone roughly three quarters of an inch is the most popular driveway top layer because it locks in place and promotes water drainage.
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