Gravel Calculator
Estimate gravel volume, weight, waste-adjusted tonnage, and material cost for driveways, paths, drainage, landscaping, and construction bases.
Gravel material calculator
Enter finished project dimensions, compacted depth, and the supplier's bulk density.
About gravel estimates
Gravel orders are commonly discussed in cubic yards or tons, while projects are measured in feet and inches. This calculator bridges those units. It multiplies length by width and converts the entered depth from inches to feet to obtain cubic feet. Dividing by 27 gives cubic yards. Volume is then multiplied by bulk density to estimate weight, and the selected waste allowance is added to that weight.
Bulk density is essential because a cubic yard is a volume, not a fixed weight. Particle size, rock type, grading, angularity, moisture, and compaction all affect how much a given volume weighs. The default 100 pounds per cubic foot is a practical planning assumption for many loose aggregates, equal to about 2,700 pounds per cubic yard. Supplier values may differ significantly, so use the quarry or landscape yard's quoted density whenever it is available.
Depth should represent the compacted finished layer. Loose gravel settles during placement and compaction, meaning the delivered volume may need to exceed geometric finished volume. The waste allowance can cover compaction, grading variation, spillage, and small measurement errors. Multiple-layer assemblies should be calculated separately when the base course and finish course use different aggregates, depths, or densities. Do not apply one blended density unless the supplier specifically supports that approach.
For irregular sites, divide the plan into rectangles, calculate each volume, and combine the results. Average several depth measurements where the subgrade varies. Curved paths can be approximated with smaller rectangles or measured by plan area. A driveway that needs excavation, drainage, geotextile, edging, and separate base material requires more planning than a single gravel quantity. Confirm that the intended depth is appropriate for soil, traffic, drainage, climate, and aggregate type.
The displayed cost multiplies waste-adjusted short tons by the entered price per ton. It excludes delivery minimums, hauling zones, tax, spreading, compaction, equipment, excavation, and disposal. Suppliers may sell by ton, cubic yard, or truckload and may round orders differently. Use the estimate to compare quotes, then provide the supplier with project dimensions and intended use. For load-bearing drives, foundations, drainage systems, or work governed by specifications, follow the project documents and consult a qualified contractor or engineer.
Gravel calculation examples
| Project dimensions | Quantity | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 20 by 10 ft, 4 in deep, 100 lb/ft3, 10% waste | 2.469 yd3 and 3.667 tons | Patio base |
| 50 by 12 ft, 3 in deep, 100 lb/ft3, no waste | 5.556 yd3 and 7.5 tons | Driveway surface |
| 30 by 4 ft, 2 in deep, 95 lb/ft3, 10% waste | 0.741 yd3 and 1.045 tons | Garden path |
| 40 by 2 ft, 12 in deep, 105 lb/ft3, 5% waste | 2.963 yd3 and 4.41 tons | Drainage trench |
How to estimate gravel
- Measure the project length and width in feet and choose the compacted depth in inches.
- Enter the supplier's bulk density or retain the planning default when no product value is available.
- Set a waste and compaction allowance and optionally enter the delivered price per short ton.
- Click Calculate gravel, then confirm ordering units, rounding, and delivery limits with the supplier.
Gravel calculator FAQ
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard?
One cubic yard contains 27 cubic feet. Divide cubic feet by 27 to convert a project volume to cubic yards.
How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
Weight varies with aggregate and moisture, but 100 pounds per cubic foot equals about 2,700 pounds per cubic yard. Use the supplier's density for a better estimate.
Should gravel depth be loose or compacted?
Enter the desired compacted finished depth. Add an allowance for compaction and placement losses based on the product and contractor's guidance.
How much extra gravel should I order?
A 5 to 10 percent allowance is common for simple measured areas, but site variation and compaction may require more. Supplier and contractor experience should guide the final order.
Does estimated cost include delivery?
No, cost is calculated only from tons and the entered per-ton rate. Add delivery, minimum-load fees, tax, labor, equipment, and other charges separately.