Gravel Calculator
How many cubic yards or tons of gravel does your driveway, path, or French drain need?
How this is calculated
- Volume in cubic feet = length × width × (depth ÷ 12)
- Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27
- Order amount = cubic yards × (1 + waste % ÷ 100)
- US tons = order amount × density ÷ 2000 (a US short ton is 2000 lb)
Common questions
How much gravel do I need for a 10×10 patio at 2 inches?
A 10 ft × 10 ft area at 2 inches deep needs about 0.62 cubic yards — roughly 0.86 tons at a typical crushed-stone density of 2800 lb/yd³. With a 10% settling allowance, order about 0.95 tons.
How many tons are in a cubic yard of gravel?
It depends on the stone: crushed stone runs about 2700 lb/yd³ (1.35 tons), pea gravel about 2800 lb/yd³ (1.4 tons), and lighter river rock around 2500 lb/yd³ (1.25 tons). That is why the density field matters for an accurate tonnage figure.
How deep should gravel be?
Decorative paths and patio surfaces: 2–3 inches. Driveway base course: 4–6 inches of compacted gravel. French drains: 8–12 inches of washed stone around the perforated pipe. Deeper is not always better — it multiplies cost fast.
Do I need extra gravel for compaction?
Yes. Gravel compacts 10–20% when mechanically compacted, and raking loses a little more. A 10% allowance covers most residential projects; use 15–20% for driveways that will be plate-compacted in lifts.
Pea gravel or crushed stone for a driveway?
Crushed stone (e.g. #57) locks together and handles vehicle weight — use it for driveways. Pea gravel is rounded and rolls, so it shifts under tires and is better for walkways, play areas, and decorative beds. For a driveway you typically want a compacted base of larger stone topped with crushed stone or a chip-seal finish.