How the math works
We take area × depth for the volume in cubic feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by the stone's density to get pounds and tons. Gravel is usually ordered by the ton, so that's the headline figure.
Aggregate
Gravel calculator
Enter your area and depth to get how much gravel you need — in tons (how it's usually sold), cubic yards for bulk delivery, and cubic feet — for any stone type.
Gravel needed
—Enter area and depth to estimate gravel.
| Weight (tons) | — |
|---|---|
| Bulk (cubic yards) | — |
| Volume (cubic feet) | — |
| Weight (lb) | — |
| Estimated cost | — |
Estimate only.
Gravel is sold by the (short) ton or cubic yard. Weights use approximate densities that vary
with stone size, moisture, and compaction — order about 5–10% extra for spreading and
settling, and confirm tonnage with your supplier.
Driveways vs paths
Paths and borders need 2–3 inches; gravel driveways need a deeper, compacted base — often 4 inches or more, sometimes built up in layers. Add 5–10% extra for spreading and settling.
Approximate densities by stone type; 1 ton = 2,000 lb. Estimates only.
Before you order: common gravel mistakes
Ordering by volume when it's sold by the ton
Most suppliers sell gravel by the ton, not the cubic yard. Forgetting to convert with the stone's density (about 1.3–1.5 tons per cubic yard) throws the order off — the calculator gives you the tonnage directly.
Skipping the compacted sub-base
Gravel dumped straight onto soil sinks, ruts, and mixes with mud. Compact the sub-base first — and over soft ground, lay landscape fabric — before spreading your surface layer.
Using pea gravel where you need lock-up
Pea gravel rolls and won't knit together, so as a driveway surface it gets pushed around by tyres. Use angular crushed stone where traffic needs a firm, locked surface.
Forgetting the spread-and-settle overage
Spreading and settling eat into your coverage, so order about 5–10% extra. Running a part-ton short mid-job usually means paying a second delivery fee.
FAQ
How much gravel do I need?
Multiply area by depth for the volume, then convert to tons using the stone's density. A 10 × 20 ft area (200 sq ft) at 3 inches deep is about 50 cubic feet — roughly 2.5 tons of crushed stone, or 1.85 cubic yards.
How many tons of gravel in a cubic yard?
Most gravel weighs about 1.3–1.5 tons per cubic yard (a cubic yard is 27 cubic feet). Crushed stone is on the heavier end; pea gravel a little lighter. The calculator uses an approximate density per stone type — confirm with your supplier.
How deep should gravel be?
For a walkway or ground cover, 2–3 inches is enough. A gravel driveway usually needs a deeper base — about 4 inches over a compacted sub-base, sometimes in two layers. Set your depth and the calculator updates the tonnage.
Should I order by the ton or the cubic yard?
Suppliers quote gravel both ways. The calculator gives both so you can compare — order about 5–10% extra to allow for spreading and settling.
What's the difference between pea gravel and crushed stone?
Pea gravel is smooth and rounded — it looks tidy but rolls and shifts underfoot, so it suits paths and decorative areas. Crushed stone has sharp edges that lock together when compacted, which is why it's used for driveway bases and anywhere that needs to stay put. Their densities differ slightly, so pick the type in the calculator.
Do I need a base under a gravel driveway?
Yes. A lasting gravel driveway is usually two layers: a compacted base of larger crushed stone, then a finer top layer. A single thin layer on bare soil sinks into the mud and ruts. Landscape fabric under the base helps a lot.
Will gravel sink over time?
Some settling is normal, and it's much worse without a compacted sub-base or a fabric barrier over soft soil. Compacting each layer and laying geotextile fabric underneath keeps gravel from disappearing into the ground and cuts down on weeds.
Estimate only. Gravel weights use approximate densities that vary with stone size, moisture, and compaction. Order a little extra and confirm tonnage with your supplier before delivery.