Gravel Calculator

This gravel calculator helps you estimate how much gravel, crushed stone, or landscaping rock you need for any project. Enter your dimensions or total area, specify the desired depth, and choose your gravel type to get accurate volume and weight estimates.

How it works:The calculator finds the total volume by multiplying the area (length × width) by the depth. Volume in cubic feet is converted to cubic yards by dividing by 27. Weight is estimated using the density factor for your chosen gravel type, which typically ranges from 1.30 to 1.40 tons per cubic yard depending on the material.

Recommended depths: For walkways and garden paths, 2-3 inches of gravel is usually sufficient. Patios and sitting areas generally need about 4 inches. Driveways require 4-6 inches for adequate support and drainage. For areas with heavy vehicle traffic, consider 6 inches or more with a compacted base layer.

Ordering tips: It is a good practice to order 5-10% more gravel than the calculated amount to account for compaction, spillage, and uneven surfaces. Gravel is typically sold by the cubic yard or by the ton. When ordering in bulk, most suppliers deliver by the truckload, with a standard dump truck holding about 10 cubic yards.

Bag estimates: For smaller projects, gravel is available in bags, commonly 0.5 cubic feet (about 50 lbs) per bag. Bags are convenient for small areas but significantly more expensive per unit volume than bulk delivery. For projects requiring more than a few cubic yards, bulk delivery is usually the most cost-effective option.