🪨 Gravel Calculator
Calculate gravel, crushed stone, or aggregate needed. Estimate volume, weight, and cost.
💡 Standard gravel weighs about 2,700 lb/yd³ (1.35 tons/yd³).
Coverage Area
200
sq ft
Volume (Cubic Yards)
1.85
yd³
Volume (Cubic Feet)
50
ft³
Volume (Cubic Meters)
1.42
m³
Weight (US Tons)
2.50
tons
Weight (Pounds)
5,000
lbs
Weight (Kilograms)
2,268
kg
Estimated Cost
—
USD
How to Calculate Gravel Needed
Accurately calculating gravel ensures you order the right amount.
Gravel Calculation Formula
Volume (ft³) = Length × Width × Depth
Cubic Yards = Volume (ft³) ÷ 27
Weight (tons) = Volume (yd³) × Density ÷ 2000
Gravel Types & Density Reference
Different gravel types have different densities. Use this table for accurate weight estimation:
| Material | Density (tons/cu yd) | Best For | Cost Range/ton |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel | 1.4 | Paths, gardens, drainage | $25–$50 |
| Crushed Stone | 1.4 | Driveways, base layer | $30–$60 |
| River Rock | 1.3 | Decorative landscaping | $40–$80 |
| Decomposed Granite | 1.5 | Pathways, patios | $30–$50 |
| Lava Rock | 0.5 | Decorative, mulch alternative | $50–$100 |
| Limestone | 1.5 | Driveways, foundations | $25–$55 |
Prices vary by region and delivery distance. Most suppliers charge delivery fees of $50–$150.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much gravel do I need?
Measure your area in feet (length × width), choose the depth (2-4 inches typical), then multiply to get cubic feet. Divide by 27 for cubic yards. A cubic yard of gravel weighs about 1.4 tons.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
A gravel driveway should be 4-6 inches deep total, typically in 3 layers: 4 inches of base gravel (#3 stone), 2 inches of middle layer (#57 stone), and 2 inches of surface gravel.
How many tons of gravel do I need for a driveway?
For a 12×30 ft driveway at 4 inches deep: 12 × 30 × 0.33 = 120 cubic feet ÷ 27 = 4.4 cubic yards × 1.4 tons = about 6.2 tons. Use our calculator for instant estimates.
What is the difference between a ton and a cubic yard?
A cubic yard is a volume measurement (3ft × 3ft × 3ft = 27 cubic feet). A ton is a weight measurement (2,000 lbs). One cubic yard of gravel weighs 1.2-1.7 tons depending on the type and moisture content.
How much does a cubic yard of gravel cost?
Gravel costs $15-$75 per cubic yard depending on type. Pea gravel runs $25-$50/yard, crushed stone $30-$60/yard, and decorative gravel $50-$100/yard. Delivery typically adds $50-$150.
What type of gravel is best for a driveway?
Use #3 crushed stone (1-2 inches) for the base layer, #57 stone (3/4 inch) for the middle, and #411 or pea gravel for the surface. Avoid smooth, round gravel which shifts easily under tires.
How much gravel for a 10×10 area?
For a 10×10 ft area at 2 inches deep: 100 × 0.17 = 17 cubic feet ÷ 27 = 0.63 cubic yards, or about 0.88 tons. At 4 inches deep, double these amounts to 1.26 cubic yards or 1.76 tons.
How deep should landscape gravel be?
Use 2-3 inches for decorative landscaping and garden paths, 4-6 inches for driveways and parking areas, and 6+ inches for drainage projects and French drains. Deeper layers provide better weed prevention.