Gravel Calculator

Calculating gravel involves three steps: measuring the area, determining depth, and converting volume to weight. This calculator handles rectangular and circular areas in both imperial and metric units.

The Gravel Formula

For a rectangular area, multiply length × width × depth. In imperial (feet), divide by 27 to get cubic yards. For a circular area, use π × radius² × depth.

Converting Volume to Weight

Gravel weight varies by type. As a rule, 1 cubic yard weighs approximately 1.4 tons (2,800 lbs) and 1 cubic meter weighs approximately 1.5 tonnes (1,500 kg) for dry, loose gravel.

Common Gravel Types

Pea gravel (1.35 tons/yd³) is ideal for walkways and drainage. Crushed stone (1.40 tons/yd³) works best for driveways and base material. Crusher run (1.50 tons/yd³) compacts well for road base. River rock (1.35 tons/yd³) is popular for landscaping.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep should gravel be for a driveway?

A typical gravel driveway requires 4 to 6 inches of depth. For heavy vehicle traffic, use 6 to 8 inches applied in layers: a 4-inch base of larger crushed stone topped with 2–3 inches of finer gravel.

How much does a ton of gravel cover?

One ton of gravel covers approximately 100 square feet at 2 inches deep, 50 square feet at 4 inches deep, or 33 square feet at 6 inches deep.

Should I order extra gravel?

Yes. Order 5–10% more than calculated to account for settling, compaction, and ground variations. This is especially important for uneven terrain.