Gravel Calculator
Estimate how much gravel, crushed stone, sand, or topsoil you need. Enter the area and depth to get the volume in cubic yards and the approximate weight in tons — the two numbers suppliers quote by.
You need approximately
How this gravel calculator works
Volume = length × width × depth, converted to cubic yards (1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet). Weight multiplies the volume by a typical loose bulk density for the selected material:
| Material | Typical density | Tons per cubic yard |
|---|---|---|
| Gravel (¼"–2", mixed) | 2,800 lb/yd³ | 1.40 |
| Pea gravel | 2,600 lb/yd³ | 1.30 |
| Crushed stone / limestone | 2,700 lb/yd³ | 1.35 |
| Sand (dry) | 2,700 lb/yd³ | 1.35 |
| Topsoil (loose, dry) | 2,100 lb/yd³ | 1.05 |
These are widely used planning figures; actual weight varies with moisture content, stone size, and compaction. Your quarry or landscape yard can give you the exact conversion for the product you order.
Frequently asked questions
How many tons is a cubic yard of gravel?
Most mixed gravel weighs roughly 2,800 lb per cubic yard, or about 1.4 US tons. Lighter materials like dry topsoil run near 1 ton per cubic yard, while dense crushed stone can reach 1.5 tons or more. Always confirm with your supplier, since moisture and stone type change the weight.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
A typical gravel driveway is built in layers totaling 8–12 inches: a base of larger crushed stone with a 2–4 inch top layer of smaller gravel. For a simple walking path, 2–3 inches over a compacted base is common.
How much area does a ton of gravel cover?
At a 2-inch depth, one ton of typical gravel covers roughly 100 square feet. At 4 inches it covers about half that. Coverage depends on the material density, so treat these as planning numbers.
Should I order gravel by the yard or by the ton?
Suppliers sell both ways. Volume (cubic yards) is what fills your space; weight (tons) is how quarries price and truck it. This calculator shows both so you can compare quotes directly.
Formulas last reviewed on 2026-07-02. This tool provides planning estimates only. Densities are typical values — confirm exact weights and coverage with your supplier before ordering.