Gravel Calculator — Free Online Tool
Gravel is sold by the ton but planned by the yard — and the two confuse everyone. This gravel calculator gives you both from your project's dimensions.
What is the Gravel Calculator?
A cubic yard of gravel weighs roughly 1.4 tons (2,800 lbs), varying with stone type and moisture. Driveways want 4–6 inches of compacted depth; walkways 2–3 inches. Measure in feet, enter depth in inches, and the calculator handles the conversions.
Order 5–10% extra for compaction and uneven subgrade — gravel settles. For driveways, a compacted crushed-stone base (not round pea gravel, which migrates) lasts years longer. This gravel calculator's tonnage is what the quarry or landscape yard will ask for; the cubic-yard figure helps compare bulk pricing.
How to use this calculator
- Measure the area's length and width in feet.
- Choose the compacted depth in inches.
- Click Calculate Gravel for tons and cubic yards.
- Add 5–10% extra and lay landscape fabric underneath.
Formula
Frequently asked questions
How many tons of gravel per cubic yard?
About 1.4 tons — which is why this gravel calculator shows both units.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
4–6 inches compacted, over a prepared and preferably fabric-lined base.
Crushed stone or pea gravel for driveways?
Crushed stone — its angular faces lock together. Round pea gravel migrates under tires.
Should I put fabric under gravel?
Yes — landscape fabric stops gravel from sinking into soil and cuts weed growth.