Gravel Calculator for Driveways & Landscaping
Determine the exact amount of gravel you need in tons, cubic yards, or bags. Our calculator simplifies planning for any landscaping or driveway project.
Gravel Calculation Made Simple
Whether you're creating a new driveway, a garden path, or a base for a patio, getting the right amount of gravel is crucial. Unlike soil or mulch, gravel is often sold by weight (tons or tonnes), which can make calculations confusing. Our calculator simplifies the entire process, converting your area dimensions into the volume and weight you'll need to order.
How to Use the Gravel Calculator
- Choose Your Settings: Select either Imperial or Metric units, then choose the shape of your area—Rectangle or Circle.
- Enter Dimensions: Measure the length and width (for rectangles) or the radius (for circles) of your project area. Then, determine how deep you want the gravel. A 4-inch (10 cm) depth is standard for a driveway.
- Gravel Properties & Cost: If you know the specific density of your gravel from your supplier, enter it for the most accurate weight calculation. You can also add the cost per ton and/or per bag to estimate your budget.
- Calculate: Click the button to see a full breakdown of the gravel you need, including volume, weight, and bag quantity.
Understanding Gravel Density and Compaction
The weight of gravel can vary significantly based on the type of stone (e.g., limestone, river rock, pea gravel) and its moisture content. The density is the weight per unit of volume (e.g., tons per cubic yard).
- Density: Our calculator defaults to a common average, but for large, expensive projects, it's always best to ask your supplier for the exact density of the material you're purchasing.
- Compaction: Remember that gravel will compact over time, especially on a driveway. It's often recommended to add about 10% to your calculated depth to account for this settling.
Related Project Calculators
A gravel project is often part of a larger construction or landscaping job. To measure the total area of your property first, our Square Footage Calculator is a great starting point. If you are building a concrete patio on top of your gravel base, use the Concrete Calculator to find out how much concrete you'll need. Planning a budget for this big project? Our Loan & Mortgage Calculator can help.