Gravel Calculator

Use this gravel calculator for driveway refreshes, walkway bases, patio bases, drainage areas, and landscape rock projects.

Gravel calculator

Adjust the values to estimate material quantity before buying.

Estimated result

Round up for ordering and keep a small project buffer.

Project area
360 sq ft
Adjusted volume
94.5 cu ft
Gravel needed
3.5 cu yd
Approximate weight
4.72 tons
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How this estimate works

This calculator turns your project dimensions into a planning quantity, then applies a waste factor so the final number is closer to what you can actually order.

  • Cubic feet = length x width x depth in feet
  • Cubic yards = cubic feet / 27
  • Pounds = adjusted cubic feet x density in pounds per cubic foot
  • Tons = pounds / 2000

Example

A 12 ft by 30 ft area at 3 in depth needs about 3.33 cubic yards, or roughly 4.5 tons at 100 lb per cubic foot.

Common planning notes

  • Stone type, compaction, moisture, and supplier density can change tonnage.
  • Base layers for driveways may need specific depth and compaction requirements.
  • Order from supplier measurements when available.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?

A rough range is 2,400 to 3,000 pounds per cubic yard, depending on stone type and moisture.

How deep should driveway gravel be?

Depth depends on the driveway base and use. Many refresh layers are thinner than new base installations.

Should I order by tons or cubic yards?

Use the unit your supplier quotes. This calculator shows both so you can compare estimates.

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