Gravel Calculator — How Much Do You Need?

Question 1

How much gravel do I need for my driveway?

Answer

For a standard residential driveway, you need 4–6 inches of gravel depth. Multiply your driveway length × width × depth (in feet), then divide by 27 to get cubic yards. For example, a 50 ft × 12 ft driveway at 4 inches (0.33 ft) deep needs 50 × 12 × 0.33 ÷ 27 = 7.3 cubic yards. Always add 10–15% for compaction and spillage. Use our gravel calculator above to get the exact number instantly.

Question 2

How do I convert cubic yards of gravel to tons?

Answer

Multiply cubic yards by the material density to get tons. Standard bank-run gravel weighs approximately 1.4 tons per cubic yard. Pea gravel is lighter at 1.35 tons per cubic yard, and crushed stone is heavier at 1.5 tons per cubic yard. For example, 7 cubic yards of gravel = 7 × 1.4 = 9.8 tons. Our gravel calculator shows weight in both tons and lbs automatically based on the material type you select.

Question 3

How many cubic yards of gravel do I need?

Answer

Use this formula: (Length ft × Width ft × Depth ft) ÷ 27 = cubic yards. If your depth is in inches, divide by 12 first to convert to feet. Example: a 20 × 10 ft patio at 3 inches deep = 20 × 10 × 0.25 ÷ 27 = 1.85 cubic yards. Add 10% waste to get your final order quantity — so order 2.05 cubic yards. Our free gravel calculator handles all unit conversions and waste factors automatically.

Question 4

What depth of gravel do I need for a driveway?

Answer

A standard residential driveway needs a minimum of 4 inches of gravel for cars and light vehicles. For heavy trucks, SUVs, or frequent use, go 6 inches deep. For a gravel driveway sub-base under asphalt or concrete, use 6–8 inches of compacted crushed stone. Paths and walkways only need 2–3 inches. Always compact each 3–4 inch layer separately with a plate compactor for maximum stability.

Question 5

What is the best gravel for a driveway?

Answer

Crushed stone #57 (3/4 inch) is the most popular choice for driveways because it compacts well, drains water, and locks together. For a base layer, use #411 or #2 crusher run. Pea gravel looks attractive but shifts under tires and is not recommended for vehicle driveways. Crushed limestone is a cost-effective alternative to granite. For the top layer, use #8 or #9 (1/4 inch) crushed stone for a clean, finished look.

Question 6

How much does a cubic yard of gravel cost?

Answer

Gravel costs $30–$80 per cubic yard depending on material type, quality, and your location. Pea gravel is typically $35–$55 per cubic yard. Crushed stone runs $40–$70 per cubic yard. Decomposed granite costs $50–$80 per cubic yard. Most suppliers add a delivery fee of $50–$150 per load. For small quantities under 1 cubic yard, bagged gravel from a home improvement store may be more cost-effective, though more expensive per cubic yard.

Question 7

How do I calculate gravel for a circular area?

Answer

For a circular area, calculate the area using the formula π × radius². Then multiply by depth in feet and divide by 27 for cubic yards. Example: a circular patio 10 ft diameter (5 ft radius) at 3 inches deep = 3.14 × 5² × 0.25 ÷ 27 = 0.73 cubic yards. In our gravel calculator, simply select the Circle shape option and enter the diameter — the calculator does all the math for you.

Question 8

What is the difference between gravel and crushed stone?

Answer

Gravel is naturally formed — it is rounded and smooth from water erosion, found in riverbeds and glacial deposits. Crushed stone is mechanically produced by crushing quarried rock into smaller pieces. The key difference is shape: gravel is round and tends to shift and roll, while crushed stone has angular edges that lock together, making it far better for driveways, paths, and structural applications. For most home improvement projects, crushed stone outperforms natural gravel.

Application	Depth	Best Material
Residential driveway	4–6 inches	Crushed stone #57
Heavy vehicle driveway	6–8 inches	Crushed limestone
Garden path / walkway	2–3 inches	Pea gravel or DG
French drain	12+ inches	Clean #57 gravel
Patio base / shed base	4–6 inches	Crusher run (#411)
Playground safety surface	6–9 inches	Pea gravel
Decorative landscaping	2–3 inches	Decomposed granite
Drainage / erosion control	4–6 inches	Bank-run gravel

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