Gravel Calculator

Gravel at a Glance

On this page

• Gravel at a Glance
• Introduction
• Estimating gravel for a driveway?
• How much gravel do I need?
• How many tons of gravel are in a cubic yard?
• Calculating the Volume
• Calculating the Weight
• Calculating the Cost
• Example
• What are the different types of gravel?
• How much does gravel cost per ton?
• What is the best type of gravel for driveways?
• How is gravel made or where does it come from?

[ see all ]

Introduction

The Gravel Calculator is a tool that helps you estimate the amount of gravel you need for your project and how much it would cost. It takes into consideration the type of material you want to use (gravel, rock, sand, topsoil, or riprap), the volume of the area you want to cover, and the price per unit of the material. We are a licensed contractor and the calculator implements the method we would use in the field to figure out the amounts. Given that there is significant difference between bulk and retail prices we show prices and information for both cases and we also link to store pages with prices where we would normal buy the materials from.

Estimating gravel for a driveway?

This page is our general calculator for gravel, rock, sand, topsoil, and riprap. If you are building or resurfacing a driveway, use the dedicated Gravel Driveway Calculator instead - it is preset for 1/4 - 2 inch crushed gravel and lets you trace the driveway outline on a satellite map to get tons, cubic yards, and cost in one step.

How much gravel do I need?

Multiply length x width x depth to get cubic feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply cubic yards by 1.28 to 1.42 to get US tons - that matches the 1,520 - 1,680 kg per cubic meter gravel density this calculator uses.

Area (sq ft) x Depth (ft) / 27 = Cubic Yards; Cubic Yards x 1.28 - 1.42 = US Tons

Example: a 10 x 20 ft path at 3 inches deep is 50 cubic feet, about 1.85 cubic yards, or roughly 2.4 to 2.6 tons.

Gravel depth	Coverage per ton
2 inches	114 - 126 sq ft
3 inches	76 - 84 sq ft
4 inches	57 - 63 sq ft
6 inches	38 - 42 sq ft

The ranges reflect the same 1/4 - 2 inch gravel density range the calculator applies. For an exact answer, draw the area on the map above or enter your dimensions in the calculator - it returns cubic yards, cubic feet, tons, and cost together.

How many tons of gravel are in a cubic yard?

A cubic yard of 1/4 - 2 inch gravel weighs about 1.28 to 1.42 US tons (1.16 - 1.28 metric tons), based on the 1,520 - 1,680 kg per cubic meter density this calculator uses. Moisture and finer material push the weight toward the top of the range.

Other materials in the calculator convert differently: dry sand is about 1.35 tons per cubic yard, dry topsoil 0.93 - 1.35 tons, and 2 - 6 inch rock 1.18 - 1.35 tons, all using the same density table as the tool above.

Calculating the Volume

The first step in the calculation is determining the volume of the area you want to cover. This is done by multiplying the length, width, and depth of the area. The volume is initially calculated in cubic meters.

Volume (cubic meters) = Length (m) x Width (m) x Depth (m)

The calculator then converts this volume into cubic yards and cubic feet for your convenience.

Volume (cubic yards) = Volume (cubic meters) x 1.30795

Volume (cubic feet) = Volume (cubic meters) x 35.3147

Calculating the Weight

The next step is to calculate the weight of the material needed. This is done by multiplying the volume of the area by the density of the material. The density varies depending on the type of material and is measured in kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³).

Weight (kg) = Volume (cubic meters) x Density (kg/m³)

The calculator then converts this weight into tons and metric tons.

Weight (tons) = Weight (kg) x 0.00110231

Weight (metric tons) = Weight (kg) x 0.001

Calculating the Cost

The final step is to calculate the cost of the material. This is done by multiplying the price per unit of the material by the volume or weight, depending on the price unit. If the price unit is per cubic yard, the cost is calculated as follows:

Cost = Price (per cu yd) x Volume (cubic yards)

If the price unit is per ton, the cost is calculated as follows:

Cost = Price (per ton) x Weight (tons)

If the price unit is per metric ton, the cost is calculated as follows:

Cost = Price (per metric ton) x Weight (metric tons)

Example

Let's say you want to cover an area of 10m x 10m x 0.5m with dry sand. The price of dry sand is $50 per cubic yard. The volume in cubic meters is 10 x 10 x 0.5 = 50 cubic meters. This is equivalent to 65.4 cubic yards and 1766 cubic feet. The weight of dry sand is 50 x 1600 = 80,000 kg. This is equivalent to 88.2 tons and 80 metric tons. The cost of the sand is 65.4 x 50 = $3270. So, you would need 65.4 cubic yards (or 1766 cubic feet) of dry sand weighing 88.2 tons (or 80 metric tons) and it would cost you $3270.

What are the different types of gravel?

Types of Gravel

Gravel is a versatile material that comes in various types, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some common types of gravel:

• Crushed Stone: This is the most common type of gravel, made from crushed limestone, granite, or other hard rock. It is typically angular in shape and is used for driveways, walkways, and as a base for construction projects.
• Pea Gravel: Also known as river rock, pea gravel is smooth and rounded in shape. It is often used for decorative purposes in gardens, pathways, and around water features.
• Gravel Fines: These are small particles of gravel that range in size from dust to 3/8 inch. They are commonly used as a base material for pavers, flagstones, and other hardscape projects.
• Crushed Granite Gravel: This type of gravel is made from crushed granite rocks and is commonly used for pathways, driveways, and as a decorative ground cover.
• Pea Pebbles: Similar to pea gravel, pea pebbles are smooth and rounded stones that are often used for landscaping and decorative purposes.

How much does gravel cost per ton?

Gravel prices can vary depending on location, supplier, and quality. On average, gravel costs around $15 to $75 per ton.

What is the best type of gravel for driveways?

When it comes to choosing the best type of gravel for driveways, there are a few options to consider:

• Crushed Stone: Crushed stone is a popular choice for driveways as it provides excellent drainage and a stable surface. It is available in various sizes and colors, allowing you to customize the look of your driveway.
• Pea Gravel: Pea gravel is another option for driveways, especially if you prefer a more natural and softer appearance. It consists of small, rounded stones that are comfortable to walk on.
• Gravel Mix: A gravel mix, also known as road base mix, is a combination of different sizes of gravel. It is commonly used for driveways as it provides a solid foundation and good drainage.

The best type of gravel for your driveway depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as the climate, the amount of traffic, and the desired aesthetic appeal when making your decision.

How is gravel made or where does it come from?

Gravel is a type of rock that is formed through the natural process of weathering and erosion. It is typically made up of small fragments of stone, sand, and other materials. Gravel can be found in various locations, including riverbeds, beaches, and quarries.