Gravel Calculator
Calculate gravel needed for driveways, patios, walkways, and landscaping projects
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Typical: 2-4" for landscaping, 4-6" for driveways
Angular edges, compacts well - driveways, base material
Quick Answer
To calculate gravel: Length × Width × Depth (all in feet) ÷ 27 = Cubic Yards. Multiply by 1.4 for tons. A 10×20 area at 4" deep needs about 2.5 cubic yards or 3.5 tons.
Whether you're building a gravel driveway, creating a decorative landscaping bed, or installing a patio base, this calculator helps you determine exactly how much gravel to order. Choose from different gravel types with accurate weight calculations for proper ordering.
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
Gravel Types & Weights
| Type | lbs/cu ft | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel | 96 | Smooth, rounded stones 3/8" - ideal for walkways, patios |
| Crushed Stone | 100 | Angular edges, compacts well - driveways, base material |
| River Rock | 90 | Large smooth stones 1-3" - decorative, drainage |
| Decomposed Granite | 100 | Fine crusite - pathways, compacts naturally |
| Lava Rock | 50 | Lightweight volcanic - landscaping, mulch alternative |
| Marble Chips | 95 | White decorative - flower beds, accents |
Gravel Coverage Chart
| Depth | Sq Ft per Ton | Sq Ft per Cu Yd |
|---|---|---|
| 1 inch | 200 | 320 |
| 2 inches | 100 | 160 |
| 3 inches | 67 | 108 |
| 4 inches | 50 | 80 |
| 6 inches | 33 | 54 |
Recommended Depths by Project
| Project Type | Depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flower Beds/Mulch | 2-3" | Decorative cover layer |
| Walkways | 2-4" | Light foot traffic |
| Patio Base | 4" | Under pavers or concrete |
| Light Driveway | 4" | Cars only |
| Heavy Driveway | 6" | Trucks, RVs, equipment |
| French Drain | 6-12" | Drainage applications |
Gravel Installation Tips
- • Excavate 4-6" below final grade for proper base
- • Install landscape fabric to prevent weeds and sinking
- • Use edging to contain gravel and prevent spreading
- • Compact base layer with plate compactor or hand tamper
- • Order 10% extra for settling and spreading
- • For driveways, use 3/4" crushed stone base + 3/8" top
- • Grade slightly away from buildings for drainage
- • Rake gravel level after delivery and spreading
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of gravel do I need?
Calculate: Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (ft) × 1.4 ÷ 2000 = tons. For 10×10 at 4" deep: 10×10×0.33×1.4÷2000 = 0.023 tons or about 46 lbs.
How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
A cubic yard of gravel weighs approximately 2,800-3,000 lbs (1.4-1.5 tons) depending on type. Pea gravel: ~2,600 lbs. Crushed stone: ~2,700 lbs.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
For driveways: 4-6 inches deep. Light traffic: 4". Heavy vehicles: 6". Include 4" compacted base layer under finish gravel.
How many bags of gravel in a cubic yard?
About 54 bags (50 lb each) or 68 bags (40 lb each) equal one cubic yard of gravel.
How much area does a ton of gravel cover?
At 2" depth: 100 sq ft. At 3" depth: 67 sq ft. At 4" depth: 50 sq ft per ton.
What type of gravel is best for driveways?
Crushed stone (#57 or #411) is best for driveways - angular edges lock together and compact well. Avoid round pea gravel which shifts under tires.
Should I use landscape fabric under gravel?
Yes, landscape fabric prevents weeds and stops gravel from sinking into soil. Use commercial-grade fabric rated for gravel, not light garden fabric.
How much gravel do I need for a 10×20 patio?
For a 10×20 (200 sq ft) patio at 3" depth: 200×0.25÷27 = 1.85 cubic yards or about 2.6 tons of gravel.
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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