Formula
Cubic feet = length x width x depth in feet. Cubic yards = cubic feet / 27. Estimated tons = cubic yards x tons per cubic yard.
Driveway and landscape material estimator
Gravel Calculator
Use this gravel calculator to estimate how much gravel you need for a driveway, walkway, patio base, French drain, landscaping bed, or construction fill area. Enter length, width, depth, density, and price to estimate cubic yards, cubic feet, tons, and material cost.
Best for
Driveways, paths, drains
Main output
Cubic yards and tons
Planning tip
Add waste margin
Calculate gravel amount
Enter project dimensions and unit costs. Results update instantly and can be used for rough ordering and budget planning.
Cubic yards
0
Cubic feet
0
Estimated tons
0
Material cost
0
Example
A 20 ft by 10 ft gravel area at 3 inches deep is about 50 cubic feet, or 1.85 cubic yards before waste margin.
Ordering advice
For most gravel projects, consider ordering 5-10% extra to cover uneven ground, compaction, spreading loss, and edge cleanup.
How to estimate gravel material
Start by measuring the finished area in feet. For rectangular areas, multiply length by width. For irregular areas, split the project into smaller rectangles, calculate each section, and add the totals together.
Depth is the biggest driver of material quantity. A decorative gravel bed may only need 2 inches, while a driveway base can require several compacted layers. Convert inches to feet before multiplying.
If your supplier sells by the ton, use the density field. Common gravel can range from about 1.2 to 1.7 tons per cubic yard depending on stone type, moisture, and compaction.
- Measure actual length and width, not just the visible edge.
- Use compacted depth for base projects.
- Round up when ordering bulk material.
- Ask your supplier for product-specific density when accuracy matters.
Common reference values
| Decorative gravel bed | 2-3 inches |
| Walkway surface | 3-4 inches |
| Driveway top layer | 4-6 inches |
| Typical gravel density | 1.2-1.7 tons/yd³ |
Local supplier values can vary by product, moisture, compaction, and regional measurement practices.
Important estimate note
This calculator estimates loose material volume. Compaction, sub-base conditions, slope, drainage fabric, edging, and delivery minimums can change the real order amount.
FAQ
How many cubic yards of gravel do I need?
Multiply length by width by depth in feet, then divide by 27. Add a waste margin if the surface is uneven or the gravel will be compacted.
How many tons are in a cubic yard of gravel?
Many gravel products are around 1.2 to 1.7 tons per cubic yard, but exact density depends on stone size, moisture, and supplier.
Should I calculate gravel by tons or cubic yards?
Use cubic yards when buying by volume and tons when buying by weight. This calculator shows both so you can match supplier pricing.
How much extra gravel should I order?
A 5-10% buffer is common for small projects. Larger or irregular areas may need more, especially if the ground is uneven.