This gravel calculator estimates how much gravel or crushed stone you need for a driveway, path, patio base or drainage area, in cubic yards, cubic meters, tons and tonnes.
How gravel is calculated
Volume = length × width × depth, then an allowance is added for compaction.
Weight = volume × density. The calculator uses 1,660 kg/m³ (about 1.4 tons per cubic yard) as a typical gravel density. Enter your supplier’s figure for a more exact weight.
Worked example
A 10 × 10 ft area at 3 inches deep is 25 cubic feet, or 0.93 cubic yards. With 10% extra for compaction, you need about 1.02 cubic yards, or 1.42 tons.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should gravel be?
Garden paths often use 2–3 inches. Driveways usually need 4–6 inches or more over a compacted base, laid in layers.
Is gravel sold by the ton or the yard?
Both, depending on the supplier, which is why the calculator shows volume and weight.