Gravel Calculator
Use this gravel calculator to estimate how much gravel you need for driveways, landscaping, or construction projects. Enter area dimensions and depth to calculate the total volume required. Helps reduce waste and improve planning accuracy.
Area Details
Amount Needed
Enter area dimensions to calculate gravel needed.
Understanding Gravel Coverage
Gravel is sold by weight (tons) or by volume (cubic yards). Coverage varies based on the size and type of stone. As a general rule, one ton of gravel covers approximately 100 square feet at a 2-inch depth. For decorative landscaping, a depth of 2–3 inches is typical. For driveways and high-traffic areas, 4–6 inches is recommended for durability and stability.
The most common types are pea gravel (small, rounded, good for paths and playgrounds), crushed stone (angular, better for driveways and drainage), and river rock (decorative, smooth-edged). Different stone types have slightly different weights per cubic yard, which affects the tons-to-volume conversion.
Recommended Depths by Use
| Application | Recommended Depth |
|---|---|
| Garden paths / landscaping | 2 – 3 inches |
| Driveways (light traffic) | 4 inches |
| Driveways (heavy traffic) | 6 inches |
| French drains / drainage | 12+ inches |
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the length and width of the area to be covered, in feet.
- Enter the desired depth of gravel in inches.
- Click Calculate to see the volume in cubic yards and estimated weight in tons.
- Add 5–10% to your order for settling and uneven subgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of gravel do I need for a driveway?
For a 2-car driveway (roughly 20 × 40 ft) at a 4-inch depth, you need approximately 800 cubic feet, or about 30 cubic yards, which weighs around 40 tons. This is typically ordered in multiple layers: a base layer of larger crushed stone and a top layer of finer gravel for appearance.
Is it cheaper to buy gravel by the ton or by the bag?
Bulk gravel delivered by the ton is almost always cheaper per cubic yard than bagged gravel from a home improvement store. Bagged gravel is convenient for small projects (under half a cubic yard), but for anything larger, a bulk delivery from a local stone yard will save significant money.
Do I need a weed barrier under gravel?
For landscaping and decorative gravel areas, a woven geotextile landscape fabric helps suppress weeds and keeps the gravel layer separate from the soil below, preventing it from sinking over time. For driveways, a layer of compacted road base or crushed limestone is more effective than fabric.