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๐Ÿชจ Gravel Calculator

Estimate how many tons and cubic yards of gravel you need for driveways, paths, patios, and landscaping.

๐Ÿ“ Enter Your Dimensions

in

๐Ÿ’ก Driveway: 4โ€“6" ยท Patio base: 4" ยท Decorative path: 2โ€“3"

$/t

๐Ÿ“Š Your Results

โ€”
Tons of Gravel
Cubic Yardsโ€”
Cubic Feetโ€”
Weight (lbs)โ€”
Area Coveredโ€”
Estimated Cost
โ€”
Gravel: $25โ€“$55/ton bulk. Delivery: $50โ€“$150 extra.

How to Calculate How Much Gravel You Need

Gravel is one of the most versatile landscaping and construction materials โ€” used for driveways, garden paths, drainage layers under patios, and decorative beds. Getting the right quantity saves you from expensive second deliveries or wasted material.

The Gravel Formula

Tons = (L ร— W ร— D in inches รท 324) ร— Density

Example: A 200 sq ft driveway at 4" deep with #57 crushed stone:
200 ร— 4 รท 324 = 2.47 ydยณ ร— 1.4 = 3.45 tons

Gravel Types and Uses

  • #57 Crushed Stone: Best for driveways and patio bases โ€” compacts well
  • #411 / Crush and Run: Self-compacting, ideal for base layers
  • Pea Gravel: Smooth, decorative, great for paths and fire pits
  • River Rock: Smooth large stones for decorative beds and drainage
  • Lava Rock: Lightweight, great for garden beds, very striking look

๐Ÿš— Driveway Depth

A new gravel driveway needs 4โ€“6 inches total depth. Apply in two 2-3" lifts and compact between layers. Use a compactable base stone for the first layer and pea gravel on top for appearance.

๐Ÿ“ฆ Delivery

Gravel is sold by the ton or cubic yard. Most suppliers deliver 10+ ton minimum economically. For small projects, buy bags at a hardware store (typically 50 lb = 0.5 cu ft).

Frequently Asked Questions

For a standard 100 ft ร— 10 ft driveway at 4 inches deep, you need approximately 12โ€“15 tons of gravel depending on stone type. Use our calculator above for exact dimensions.
One ton of #57 crushed stone covers approximately 65 sq ft at 4 inches deep, or 100 sq ft at 2.5 inches. Coverage varies by stone density.
#57 crushed stone or #411 crush and run are the most popular choices for driveways. They compact well, drain effectively, and provide a stable surface. Avoid round pea gravel for driveways โ€” it doesn't lock in place and spreads under tires.
For a paver or concrete patio, lay a 4-inch compacted gravel base (use #57 or #411 stone) over a compacted subgrade. Top with 1 inch of sand before setting pavers. This provides drainage and prevents frost heaving.