Gravel Calculator
Work out how much gravel a path, driveway or sub-base needs — volume in cubic yards and metres, and weight in tons and tonnes for ordering by weight.
Gravel is sold by volume or by weight, and the two are easy to confuse. This calculator gives you both from the same three measurements — plus the wastage that uneven ground always adds.
The weight uses a stated density of 1,600 kg/m³ (100 lb/ft³). It is labelled an estimate on the page, because real stone varies; the volume figure is exact.
Your results
Enter your measurements and press Calculate.
Quantities are rounded up to whole tiles, planks, boxes or bags, after the wastage allowance. Cost appears only when you enter a price.
Formula
All lengths are converted to a single unit before the calculation: 1 ft = 0.3048 m, 1 in = 25.4 mm, 1 ft² = 0.09290304 m², 1 yd² = 9 ft². Material quantities are rounded up — you cannot buy part of a tile, plank or bag.
How to use this calculator
- Measure the length and width of the area, and the depth of gravel.
- Set wastage at 10% for uneven ground.
- Read the volume to order in cubic yards, or the weight if your supplier sells by the ton.
- Add a price per cubic yard or per ton for a cost estimate.
Worked example
| Area | 10 ft × 10 ft × 3 in deep |
|---|---|
| Volume | 10 × 10 × (3 ÷ 12) = 25 ft³ |
| In cubic yards | 25 ÷ 27 = 0.93 yd³ |
| With 10% wastage | 25 × 1.10 = 27.5 ft³ = 1.02 yd³ |
| Weight | 27.5 ft³ × 100 lb = 2,750 lb = 1.38 US tons |
Check it by hand: every step above uses the formula in the box. If your numbers match the example inputs but the calculator gives a different answer, please report it via the contact page.
Frequently asked questions
How is gravel weight calculated?
From a stated density assumption: 1,600 kg per cubic metre (100 lb per cubic foot). Real gravel varies with stone type and moisture, so the weight is an estimate — the volume is the exact figure. Suppliers who sell by weight will confirm the tonnage.
Should I order gravel by volume or by weight?
Order by whichever your supplier uses. Landscaping suppliers usually sell by the cubic yard; bulk aggregate suppliers often sell by the ton. This calculator gives you both, so you can compare quotes.
How deep should gravel be?
2–3 in (50–75 mm) for a garden path, 4 in (100 mm) for a driveway sub-base, and 6 in (150 mm) under a concrete slab carrying vehicles. Deeper than 3 in on a path feels loose underfoot.
What is the difference between gravel and crushed stone?
Gravel is naturally rounded stone; crushed stone is angular and locks together better under load. For driveways and sub-bases, crushed stone (or MOT Type 1 in the UK) is usually the better choice.
Related calculators
Estimates only. Results are for planning. Measure twice, confirm box coverage and tile sizes on the packaging you buy, and follow the manufacturer's instructions. See the disclaimer.