Gravel Calculator
Estimate gravel for driveways, paths, patios, drainage projects, shed bases, paver bases, and landscaping projects.
Project dimensions
Enter the area, depth, waste, and gravel density.
How to Use the Gravel Calculator
Enter the length, width, and depth of the area you want to cover with gravel. The calculator estimates the total volume in cubic feet and cubic yards, applies your selected waste percentage, and converts the result into estimated tons using the gravel density value.
Common Gravel Depths
| Project Type | Common Gravel Depth |
|---|---|
| Walkway or garden path | 2–3 inches |
| Patio base | 4 inches |
| Driveway top layer | 4–6 inches |
| Shed or paver base | 4–6 inches |
| Drainage trench | Varies by design |
Example Gravel Estimate
For a 30 ft by 12 ft area at 4 inches deep, the volume is about 120 cubic feet. Dividing by 27 gives about 4.44 cubic yards. With 10% waste, that becomes about 4.89 cubic yards. At 1.4 tons per cubic yard, that is roughly 6.84 tons of gravel.
Should You Add Extra Gravel?
Yes. Gravel projects often benefit from a 5–10% waste allowance. Extra gravel helps account for compaction, uneven ground, spreading variation, and small measurement differences. Driveways and base layers may need more material if the ground is soft or uneven.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate how much gravel I need?
Multiply length by width by depth to get volume. In US units, convert depth from inches to feet first, then divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards.
How many tons are in a cubic yard of gravel?
Gravel weight depends on material type and moisture. A common estimate is about 1.3 to 1.7 tons per cubic yard.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
Many gravel driveways use 4–6 inches of gravel, but deeper layers may be needed for soft ground, heavy traffic, or multi-layer driveway construction.
Does gravel compact after spreading?
Yes. Gravel can settle and compact after spreading, especially under vehicle traffic. Adding a waste allowance helps account for compaction and leveling.
Gravel Guides
Learn more about gravel depth, coverage, pricing, and material selection with these detailed guides.