How the gravel calculator works
- Area = length × width, in square feet.
- Volume = area × (depth in inches ÷ 12), in cubic feet.
- Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27.
- Weight = cubic feet × density (lb per cu ft). Tons = pounds ÷ 2,000.
Quarries and landscape yards sell gravel either by the cubic yard or by the ton, which is why both figures are shown.
Assumptions
- The default density of 105 lb/cu ft (about 1.4 tons per cubic yard) is a common supplier average for crushed stone. Real density depends on rock type, size and moisture.
- Tons are US short tons (2,000 lb).
- Volume is loose material. Road base and crusher run compact by roughly 10–20%, so add extra if you'll be compacting.
Worked example
A gravel driveway is 50 ft × 10 ft, 4 in deep, using crushed stone (105 lb/cu ft).
- Area: 50 × 10 = 500 sq ft
- Volume: 500 × (4 ÷ 12) = 166.67 cu ft = 166.67 ÷ 27 = 6.17 yd³
- Weight: 166.67 × 105 = 17,500 lb = 8.75 tons
Tips before you buy
- Lay landscape fabric under paths and driveways to keep gravel from sinking into the soil.
- Spread a compactable base (crusher run) first, then a decorative top layer.
- Check your truck's payload before hauling. A cubic yard of gravel can weigh more than a ton.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
Usually about 2,600–3,000 lb, or roughly 1.3–1.5 tons, depending on the stone type and moisture. The default here is 2,835 lb (1.42 tons) per cubic yard.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
A typical driveway uses 4–6 in of compacted base topped with 2–3 in of surface gravel, for about 8–12 in in total on soft soils.
How much area does a ton of gravel cover?
At 2 in deep and about 105 lb/cu ft, one ton covers roughly 114 sq ft.