Gravel Calculator: How Many Tons Do You Need?
Calculate gravel for driveways, paths, patio bases, and drainage with our free gravel calculator and complete buying guide.
Gravel is one of the most versatile materials in landscaping. It's used for driveways, patio bases, garden paths, drainage areas, and decorative beds. The key to any gravel project is ordering the right type in the right quantity.
Use our Gravel Calculator to get tons and cubic yards for any project. Here's everything else you need to know.
Formula: Tons = (L × W × D in inches ÷ 324) × Density (1.4 t/yd³ for crushed stone)
Choosing the Right Gravel Type
- #57 Crushed Stone: Best for driveways and patio bases. Compacts well, drains excellently.
- #411 Crush and Run: Self-compacting base material — great under concrete and pavers.
- Pea Gravel: Smooth, decorative. Perfect for paths and fire pits. Use our Pea Gravel Calculator specifically for this.
- River Rock: Smooth, large stones for drainage and decorative beds.
- Limestone: White/grey crushed stone, great for driveways in areas where limestone is local.
How Deep Should Gravel Be?
Overview of gravel calculator: how many tons do you need?
Overview of gravel calculator: how many tons do you need?
- New driveway base: 4–6 inches (apply in 2-inch lifts and compact)
- Patio base under pavers: 4 inches compacted
- Decorative path: 2–3 inches
- French drain fill: Fill entire trench around perforated pipe
Calculate Gravel Now
Tons, cubic yards, and cost for any gravel project.
For a full overview of every material calculator, see the Ultimate Guide to DIY Material Calculators.
Project planning and measurement