Gravel Calculator
Calculate how much gravel you need for a driveway, path, or garden area, in cubic yards and tons.
Choosing the right gravel depth
Depth needs vary by use case: a decorative garden path might only need 2 inches, a standard walkway typically uses 3-4 inches, and a driveway meant to support vehicle weight often needs 4-6 inches, sometimes with a compacted base layer underneath for stability.
Deeper isn't always better beyond what's structurally needed — excess gravel adds cost without added benefit for lighter-use areas, so matching depth to actual use case keeps the project both functional and cost-effective.
Why gravel is sold by weight, not volume
Gravel suppliers typically sell by the ton rather than by volume, since gravel density varies by material type (crushed stone, pea gravel, river rock all differ) and moisture content. This calculator uses a standard estimate of about 1.4 tons per cubic yard, which is reasonable for typical crushed gravel, though your supplier may quote a slightly different conversion for their specific product.
It's worth confirming the exact density conversion with your supplier for larger orders, since even a small per-ton price difference multiplied across many tons can add up on a large driveway or lot.
Frequently asked questions
Why is gravel sold by weight instead of volume?
Gravel density varies by material type and moisture content, so weight is a more consistent measure for suppliers than volume — this calculator estimates tons using a standard density figure, but your supplier may quote slightly differently.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
Driveways meant to support vehicle weight typically use 4-6 inches of gravel, often with a compacted base layer underneath, while lighter-use paths can use less.