Gravel Calculator
Plan your gravel project with precision. Enter project area dimensions, choose gravel type and depth, account for compaction, and estimate cubic yards, tons, 50-lb bag counts, and total project cost.
Quick Answer: How Much Gravel Do You Need?
To calculate gravel, multiply length × width × depth (in feet), then divide by 27 to get cubic yards. One cubic yard of gravel weighs about 1.4–1.7 tons and equals roughly 54 × 50-lb bags.
- Walkways: 2–3″ deep
- Driveways: 4–6″ deep (with base layer)
- French drains: 6–12″ deep
- Rule of thumb: 1 ton covers ~100 sq ft at 2″ deep
Decorative rounded gravel. Density: 1.4 tons/cu yd. Recommended depth: 3″.
⚙️ Advanced Options (Density, Compaction, Delivery, Pricing)
What This Calculator Does
This Gravel Calculator helps you estimate exactly how much gravel, stone, or aggregate you need for landscaping, driveways, drainage, and construction projects. It calculates volume in cubic feet and cubic yards, converts to weight in tons, and provides bag counts for 50-lb and 60-lb bags.
The calculation features automatic density adjustment based on the selected gravel type—from pea gravel and #57 stone to decomposed granite and crusher run. It also outputs detailed cost breakdowns including material, delivery, labor, and optional add-ons like edging and weed barrier.
How to Use the Gravel Calculator
- Select your preferred measurement system (Imperial feet or Metric meters) and target gravel type. Selecting a gravel type automatically adjusts density and recommended depth.
- Choose your application (walkway, driveway, drainage, etc.) — this auto-suggests an appropriate depth and waste margin.
- Select the project shape (rectangular, circular, triangular, trapezoid, or trench) and enter the corresponding dimensions.
- Optionally use a project template to auto-fill dimensions for common projects like a single-car driveway or French drain.
- Add deductions for trees, pavers, drains, and planters to avoid over-purchasing.
- Configure optional add-ons like edging, weed fabric, base layer, and compaction.
- Optionally enter pricing for gravel, delivery, and labor to generate a complete financial estimate.
- Adjust the waste slider to configure your safety margin, then click Calculate Gravel Needed.
Gravel Type Reference Chart
| Gravel Type | Density (tons/yd) | Best Use | Standard Depth | Coverage (sqft/ton @ 2″) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel (3/8″) | 1.4 | Walkways, playgrounds, decorative | 2–3″ | ~180 |
| #57 Stone (3/4″) | 1.5 | Driveway base, drainage, paver base | 4″ | ~160 |
| Crushed Stone (1″) | 1.5 | Driveways, construction, drainage | 4″ | ~160 |
| River Rock (1–3″) | 1.5 | Decorative landscaping, dry creek beds | 2–3″ | ~160 |
| Decomposed Granite (DG) | 1.6 | Pathways, patios, dog runs | 3″ | ~150 |
| Lava Rock / Scoria | 0.65 | Lightweight mulch, fire pits, drainage | 2″ | ~370 |
| Crusher Run / Road Base | 1.65 | Driveway base, road base, compactable | 4″ | ~145 |
| Stone Dust / Quarry Process | 1.7 | Paver base, leveling, joint filler | 1″ | ~140 |
| Bank Run / Pit Gravel | 1.5 | Natural fill, general construction | 4″ | ~160 |
| Drainage Gravel (1.5″) | 1.45 | French drains, septic fields | 6–12″ | ~165 |
| Marble Chips | 1.5 | Decorative, bright landscaping | 2″ | ~160 |
Common Gravel Questions
How much gravel do I need for a driveway?
How many tons of gravel per cubic yard?
How deep should gravel be for different applications?
What’s the difference between #57 stone and pea gravel?
How many 50-lb bags of gravel equal a cubic yard?
Should I use bulk gravel or bagged gravel?
Pro Tips for Gravel Projects
- Order 5–10% more gravel than calculated to account for settling, spreading, and irregular surfaces. Our waste slider helps you configure this buffer.
- Use #57 stone as a base layer (4″) + pea gravel as a top layer (2″) for decorative driveways that drain well and look great.
- Lay weed fabric BEFORE gravel to prevent weed growth through your installation and reduce maintenance over time.
- Edge gravel beds with steel, plastic, or stone edging to keep stones contained and maintain clean lines.
- Compact base layers with a plate compactor for driveways and patios — expect 15–20% compaction volume reduction.
- For French drains: wrap perforated pipe in geotextile fabric, then surround with drainage gravel (1.5″ clean stone).
- Avoid pea gravel for driveways — it shifts under tires; use angular #57 stone or crusher run instead for a stable surface.
Complete Guide to Gravel Estimation & Costs
Gravel is one of the most versatile landscaping and construction materials. From driveways and walkways to drainage systems and decorative beds, gravel projects come in all shapes and sizes. Estimating the right amount of gravel ensures you don’t run short mid-project or over-pay for unused material.
Understanding Gravel Types (Pea, Crushed, River, DG, Crusher Run)
Each gravel type has unique properties that affect its performance. Pea gravel is smooth and rounded, ideal for walkways and decorative beds but not for driveways. #57 stone is angular and interlocking, perfect for base layers and drainage. River rock is large and decorative, great for dry creek beds. Decomposed granite compacts well for pathways and patios. Crusher run is a mix of stone and fines that compacts into a solid surface for driveways.
How Deep Should Gravel Be? (By Application)
Depth requirements vary by application. Walkways need 2–3 inches, driveways need 4–6 inches (with a base layer), French drains need 6–12 inches, and playgrounds need 6 inches of pea gravel for safety. Always check local building codes for minimum depths.
Bulk vs Bagged Gravel: When to Use Each
Bulk delivery is the most cost-effective option for projects over 1 cubic yard, costing $25–50 per yard delivered. Bagged gravel costs $4–8 per 50-lb bag (about $100–150 per yard) but is more convenient for small projects, repairs, and DIYers without trucks.
Hidden Costs in Gravel Projects
Beyond the gravel itself, budget for delivery fees ($50–150), minimum order surcharges (if under 3–5 yards), compaction equipment rental ($100–200/day), edging materials ($2–8 per linear foot), weed fabric ($30–60 per roll), and spreading service ($100–300). Our calculator includes all these optional cost fields.