Gravel is sold by the ton or cubic yard, and getting the conversion right saves you money and multiple trips to the supply yard. One cubic yard of gravel weighs approximately 2,800 pounds (1.4 tons) and covers roughly 100 square feet at 3 inches deep. A standard driveway measuring 20x50 feet at 4 inches deep needs about 12.3 cubic yards or 17.3 tons of gravel. This calculator converts your project area and desired depth into cubic yards and tons, then estimates cost based on local pricing. Most suppliers offer significant discounts for full truckload orders over 15 tons.
Gravel Calculator
Quick Presets
Gravel Coverage Reference (Crushed Stone)
Cubic yards and tons by area and depth. Based on 2,800 lbs/yd³.
| Area (sq ft) | 2" Deep (yd³) | 4" Deep (yd³) | 4" Deep (tons) | 6" Deep (tons) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 | 0.62 | 1.23 | 1.73 | 2.59 |
| 200 | 1.23 | 2.47 | 3.46 | 5.19 |
| 400 | 2.47 | 4.94 | 6.91 | 10.37 |
| 500 | 3.09 | 6.17 | 8.64 | 12.96 |
| 1,000 | 6.17 | 12.35 | 17.28 | 25.93 |
| 2,000 | 12.35 | 24.69 | 34.57 | 51.85 |
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the length and width of the area you need to cover in feet
- Set the desired depth — 2-3 inches for walkways, 4-6 inches for driveways, 6-8 inches for heavy traffic areas
- View the volume in cubic yards and weight in tons for ordering
- Enter your local price per ton or cubic yard to see estimated material cost
- Add 10-15% for compaction and settling — gravel compresses when driven on
How It Works
Gravel is sold by the ton or cubic yard. Knowing the volume and weight helps you order the right amount and estimate delivery costs.
The basic rule:
- Volume: Area (sq ft) × Depth (inches) / 12 = cubic feet. Divide by 27 for cubic yards
- Weight varies by type: crushed stone ~2,800 lbs/yd³, pea gravel ~2,600 lbs/yd³, river rock ~3,000 lbs/yd³
- For driveways, use 4-6 inches of gravel. Compact in 2-inch lifts for best results
Always use landscape fabric under decorative gravel to prevent weed growth. For driveways, layer different sizes: larger crushed stone as a base (4"), then a finer top layer (2"). Compact each layer before adding the next.
Tips & Considerations
- Gravel compacts 20-30% after vehicle traffic. A 4-inch layer settles to about 3 inches, so plan your depth accordingly.
- Delivery costs $50-$150 depending on distance. Ordering multiple materials in one delivery saves significantly over multiple trips.
- Proper base preparation is 90% of a good gravel driveway. Remove topsoil, compact the subgrade, and install landscape fabric before spreading gravel.
- Pea gravel looks great but migrates easily — it needs solid edging. Crushed stone with fines (like #57 or 3/4 minus) locks together and is better for driveways and paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a ton of gravel cover?
One ton of gravel covers approximately 80 square feet at 4 inches deep, 108 sq ft at 3 inches, or 160 sq ft at 2 inches. Coverage varies slightly by gravel type and size — smaller stones pack more tightly and cover slightly less area.
How much gravel do I need for a driveway?
A 10' x 40' driveway at 4 inches deep requires about 4.9 cubic yards or roughly 7 tons of gravel. For a proper gravel driveway, plan for 4-6 inches total depth in multiple layers: 3-4 inches of #57 stone base topped with 2 inches of finer gravel.
What type of gravel is best for driveways?
Crushed stone (#57 or #411) is best for driveways — angular pieces interlock and compact well. Top with a finer crusher run (#21A) for a smooth surface. Avoid round pea gravel for driveways — it shifts under tires and does not compact. River rock is decorative only.
How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
Crushed stone: ~2,800 lbs (1.4 tons). Pea gravel: ~2,600 lbs (1.3 tons). River rock: ~3,000 lbs (1.5 tons). Lava rock: ~2,500 lbs (1.25 tons). Wet gravel can weigh 10-15% more. A dump truck typically carries 12-15 tons.
Should I put landscape fabric under gravel?
Yes, always use heavy-duty landscape fabric under decorative gravel and pathways. It prevents weed growth and stops gravel from sinking into the soil. Use commercial-grade fabric (not cheap weed barrier) and overlap seams by 6 inches. For driveways, geotextile fabric is even better.
How deep should gravel be for a patio or walkway?
Walkways: 2-3 inches of compacted gravel over landscape fabric. Patios: 3-4 inches. Use a finer gravel (#89 or pea gravel) for the surface and a coarser base layer for drainage. Edge with steel, aluminum, or stone edging to keep gravel contained.