Gravel Calculator
Calculate cubic yards and tons of gravel for a driveway or base from length, width and depth.
How it works
cubic yards = length × width × (depth ÷ 12) ÷ 27 · tons ≈ cubic yards × 1.4
Find the volume the same way as any slab — length times width times depth in feet, divided by 27 for cubic yards. Crushed stone and gravel weigh roughly 1.4 tons per cubic yard, so multiply to get tonnage, since many suppliers sell by weight. Add about 10% because loose gravel settles and compacts once it is spread and driven on.
Worked example
A 20 × 10 ft parking pad at 3 in deep: 20 × 10 × (3 ÷ 12) = 50 cu ft, ÷ 27 = 1.85 cubic yards, about 2.6 tons.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
Plan on 4–6 in of compacted stone for a driveway, often in two layers — a coarse base under a finer top. Foot paths and drainage beds can go 2–3 in. Deeper is more forgiving on soft or clay soils.
Should I buy by the yard or the ton?
Bulk gravel is usually sold by weight, so convert with the ~1.4 tons per yard figure. The exact density varies by stone type and moisture, so treat tonnage as an estimate and confirm with the quarry.
Do I need landscape fabric under gravel?
For driveways and paths, yes — a woven geotextile keeps the stone from sinking into the soil and blocks weeds, which is what makes a gravel surface last instead of disappearing into mud.
Related calculators
Estimates only — add for waste and confirm against local building codes and supplier specs.