1
Measure the area
Measure the length and width of the area you plan to cover.
Free Construction Calculator
Gravel Calculator – Yards, Tons, Bags & Cost
Calculate how much gravel you need for a driveway, walkway, patio base or landscaping project. Estimate cubic yards, tons, bags, waste allowance and material cost.
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Gravel Project Details
Enter the area dimensions and gravel depth. Results update automatically.
Gravel density varies by material, moisture and supplier. Use your supplier's weight or density information when available.
How much gravel do I need?
Multiply the project length by width and gravel depth to calculate volume. Convert cubic feet to cubic yards by dividing by 27. Gravel weight depends on material density, so use supplier information when calculating tons.
How to Use the Gravel Calculator
2
Choose gravel depth
Enter the planned gravel layer thickness.
3
Add waste
Add extra material for compaction, uneven ground and handling.
4
Check yards and tons
Review volume, estimated weight, bags and material cost.
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Gravel Volume Formula
For a rectangular area, multiply length by width and depth.
Length × Width × Depth = Volume
When using inches for depth, divide the depth by 12 before calculating cubic feet. Divide cubic feet by 27 to convert the result to cubic yards.
Gravel Calculation Example
For a 20 ft × 10 ft area with a 3 inch gravel depth:
3 inches ÷ 12 = 0.25 ft
20 × 10 × 0.25 = 50 cubic feet
50 ÷ 27 = 1.85 cubic yards
With 10% extra = approximately 2.04 cubic yards
Gravel Depth Guide
Required gravel depth depends on the material, soil conditions, expected traffic and project design. These values are only general planning examples.
Decorative landscapingOften 2–3 in
Walking pathOften 2–4 in
Driveway surfaceOften 3–4+ in
Base layersVaries by project
Why Gravel Weight Can Vary
A cubic yard of gravel does not always weigh the same. Stone type, particle size, moisture, compaction and supplier specifications can change the weight. That is why this calculator lets you adjust the estimated tons per cubic yard instead of relying on one fixed value.
Gravel Calculator FAQ
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?+
One cubic yard equals exactly 27 cubic feet.
How do I calculate gravel for a driveway?+
Measure the driveway length and width, choose the required gravel depth, calculate the volume and then convert that volume to cubic yards. Weight can then be estimated using your gravel supplier's density.
How many tons of gravel do I need?+
Multiply the required cubic yards by the estimated tons per cubic yard. Because gravel density varies, supplier-specific weight information gives the most accurate estimate.
Should I order extra gravel?+
Extra material can help cover compaction, uneven ground, spreading losses and measurement differences. The calculator includes an adjustable waste allowance.
Can I calculate gravel bags?+
Yes. Enter the volume covered by one bag and the calculator estimates how many bags are required.
Does gravel compact after installation?+
Many gravel materials settle or compact during installation. The amount depends on the material, base preparation and compaction method.
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Planning Disclaimer
This calculator provides planning estimates. Actual gravel quantity and weight can vary because of material density, moisture, compaction, site conditions, excavation accuracy and supplier specifications. Confirm quantities with your material supplier before ordering.