Asphalt Calculator
Calculate asphalt needed for driveways, parking lots, and paving projects
Enter Project Dimensions
Quick Answer
Hot mix asphalt weighs ~145 lbs per cubic foot or ~2 tons per cubic yard. A typical driveway (12×50 ft at 3" depth) needs approximately 6 tons of asphalt.
Planning a driveway, parking lot, or road paving project? This calculator helps you determine exactly how many tons of asphalt you need based on area and thickness, with cost estimates to budget your project accurately.
Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Mathematical Historian
15+ years experience
PhD from Yale University. Published mathematical historian ensuring precision in all calculations.
Education
PhD in Mathematical History - Yale University
How to Calculate Asphalt
Formula: Area (sq ft) × Depth (ft) = Volume (cu ft) ÷ 27 = Cubic Yards
Then: Cubic Yards × 2 tons/yd = Tons of Asphalt
Example: 12×50 ft driveway, 3" deep
- • Area: 12 × 50 = 600 sq ft
- • Depth: 3" ÷ 12 = 0.25 ft
- • Volume: 600 × 0.25 = 150 cu ft
- • Cubic yards: 150 ÷ 27 = 5.56 cu yd
- • Tons: 5.56 × 2 = 11.1 tons
Asphalt Coverage Chart
| Thickness | Sq Ft per Ton | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1" | 80-100 sq ft | Small patch |
| 2" | 40-50 sq ft | Overlay |
| 3" | 27-33 sq ft | Standard driveway |
| 4" | 20-25 sq ft | Heavy traffic |
| 6" | 13-17 sq ft | Commercial |
Recommended Asphalt Thickness
| Application | Depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Driveway | 3-4 inches | Light vehicle use |
| Commercial Parking | 4-6 inches | Regular traffic |
| Heavy Equipment | 6-8 inches | Trucks, machinery |
| Roads/Streets | 6-10 inches | Depends on traffic |
| Patch/Overlay | 1-2 inches | Over existing asphalt |
Base Requirements
- • 4-6" gravel base for new driveways
- • 6-8" base for heavy traffic areas
- • Proper compaction essential
Pro Tips for Asphalt Projects
- •Always use 4-6" compacted gravel base
- •Ensure proper drainage and slope (2% minimum)
- •Compact in 2" lifts for thick applications
- •Pave in warm weather (50°F minimum)
- •Allow 24 hours before driving on new asphalt
- •Sealcoat every 2-3 years for longevity
- •Edge with concrete or pavers for clean lines
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does asphalt cost per ton?
Hot mix asphalt costs $100-150 per ton installed, or $40-80 per ton for materials only. Prices vary by region and oil prices.
How many tons of asphalt do I need for a driveway?
A typical 12×50 ft driveway at 3" depth needs ~11 tons. Formula: (12 × 50 × 0.25) ÷ 27 × 2 = 11.1 tons.
How thick should asphalt be for a driveway?
3-4 inches for residential driveways with light vehicles. 4-6 inches for heavier vehicles or commercial use.
How much area does 1 ton of asphalt cover?
At 2" thick: 40-50 sq ft. At 3" thick: 27-33 sq ft. At 4" thick: 20-25 sq ft per ton.
Do I need a base under asphalt?
Yes, always use 4-6" of compacted gravel base. Base prevents settling, improves drainage, extends asphalt life.
How long does asphalt take to dry?
Asphalt cools and hardens in 24-48 hours for light traffic. Full cure takes 6-12 months. Avoid heavy loads for 5-7 days.
Can I pave over old asphalt?
Yes, if old asphalt is structurally sound (no major cracks/potholes). Add 1.5-2" overlay. Fill large cracks first.
What's the difference between asphalt and blacktop?
Same material, different terms. "Asphalt" is technical; "blacktop" is colloquial. Both are hot mix asphalt pavement.
Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Mathematical Historian | PhD from Yale
Dr. Lawrence is a published mathematical historian with a PhD from Yale University. She ensures mathematical precision and accuracy in all our calculations, conversions, and academic score calculators. Her expertise spans computational mathematics and educational assessment.
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