Order the right amount of gravel.
Enter the area you want to cover and the depth. See exactly how many cubic yards, tons and cubic feet you need, what it costs, and how far a load will spread.
The area
What to know before you order
Order summary
How depth changes the order
Same 200 sq ft area, different gravel depths. Deeper layers give a firmer, more durable surface but cost more.
| Depth | Cubic yards | Tons | Cubic feet | Estimated cost |
|---|
Gravel, explained
How Gravel Volume Is Calculated
Gravel volume equals area (length x width) times depth. Convert the depth from inches to feet by dividing by 12, then multiply by the area. Divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards. One cubic yard of gravel weighs approximately 1.4 tons.
Gravel Depth Guidelines
For driveways, use 4 to 6 inches of gravel in layers. Pathways need 2 to 3 inches. Decorative ground cover requires 2 inches. French drains typically need 12 inches of gravel. Proper depth ensures stability and coverage.
Types of Gravel
Common types include pea gravel (small, rounded, decorative), crushed stone (angular, locks together well for driveways), river rock (large, decorative), and gravel base (compactable foundation material). The type affects both weight per cubic yard and price.
Converting Volume to Weight
Gravel is often sold by the ton. One cubic yard of gravel weighs approximately 1.4 tons (2,800 lbs), though this varies by type. Pea gravel is lighter at about 1.3 tons per cubic yard, while crushed limestone is heavier at about 1.5 tons.
Common questions
How many tons of gravel do I need?
Calculate the cubic yards needed, then multiply by 1.4 to convert to approximate tons. The exact weight varies by gravel type. This calculator provides the tonnage estimate automatically.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
A gravel driveway should be 4 to 6 inches deep, applied in 2-inch compacted layers. Use larger crushed stone for the base layer and smaller gravel for the surface. Proper layering improves drainage and stability.
What is the best gravel for a driveway?
Crushed stone (size #57 or #411) is best for driveways because its angular edges lock together and resist displacement. Use a base of larger #3 stone, a middle layer of #57, and a top layer of #411 or stone dust.
Should I add extra gravel for settling?
Yes. Gravel settles about 10% to 15% after compaction. Order that much extra to achieve your target depth. Proper compaction with a plate compactor or roller minimizes future settling.
Estimates for planning only. Actual gravel weight and coverage vary by stone type, moisture and compaction. Confirm quantities and pricing with your supplier before you order.