How Much Gravel Do I Need?
Calculating the right amount of gravel for your project prevents costly overordering and time-consuming return trips to the supplier. The amount you need depends on three main factors: the area you need to cover, the depth of gravel required, and the type of gravel you choose.
Our gravel calculator makes this easy. Enter your project dimensions (length, width, and depth), select your gravel type, and get instant results in cubic yards, US tons, and estimated cost. You can also choose from presets for common projects like driveways, patios, and walkways.
Gravel Calculator Formula
The basic formula for calculating gravel volume is straightforward:
Volume (cubic feet) = Length (ft) x Width (ft) x Depth (ft)
Cubic Yards = Volume (cubic feet) / 27
Weight (tons) = Cubic Yards x Material Density
For example, a typical driveway that is 20 ft long, 10 ft wide, and 3 inches deep requires approximately 1.85 cubic yards or 2.63 tons of gravel. At an average price of $35 per ton for pea gravel, that comes to roughly $93.
Gravel Types and Densities
Different types of gravel have different densities, which affects both the weight and cost of your order. Here are the most common types:
| Material | Density (tons/yd3) | Avg. Cost/Ton |
|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel | 1.41 | $35 |
| Crushed Stone | 1.35 | $38 |
| River Rock | 1.33 | $45 |
| Decomposed Granite | 1.47 | $40 |
| Limestone | 1.35 | $42 |
How Deep Should Gravel Be?
The recommended depth depends on your specific application:
- Driveways: 3 to 4 inches (standard vehicle traffic)
- Patios: 2 to 3 inches (foot traffic only)
- Walkways/Paths: 2 inches (light foot traffic)
- Drainage: 6 to 12 inches (French drains and drainage beds)
- Landscaping: 2 to 3 inches (decorative ground cover)
Always add 5-10% extra material to account for compaction and uneven ground. Our calculator includes an advanced option to factor in waste percentage and compaction.
Tips for Ordering Gravel
- Order 5-10% more than calculated to account for spillage, settling, and uneven surfaces.
- Consider delivery fees which typically range from $50-$150 depending on distance and quantity.
- One cubic yard of gravel covers approximately 108 square feet at 3 inches deep.
- Most suppliers sell gravel by the ton, so convert your cubic yard estimate to tons using the material density.
- For large orders (10+ tons), negotiate bulk pricing with your supplier for significant savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of gravel do I need for a 2-car driveway?
A typical 2-car driveway (20 ft x 20 ft) with 3 inches of gravel requires approximately 3.7 cubic yards or about 5.2 tons. At average pricing, expect to pay between $180-$235 for the material alone.
What is the cheapest gravel for a driveway?
Crushed stone and plain gravel are typically the most affordable options at $30-$38 per ton. Pea gravel is slightly more expensive but provides a smoother, more decorative finish.
How much does a ton of gravel cover?
One ton of gravel covers approximately 80 square feet at 3 inches deep, or about 120 square feet at 2 inches deep. Coverage varies slightly depending on the gravel type and density.