GRAVEL CALCULATOR
Gravel Calculator
Estimate gravel volume, cubic yards, US short tons, metric tonnes, waste and material cost for your project.
Project Dimensions
Gravel Material
Density varies by material, moisture and compaction. For the most accurate tonnage, use the density provided by your local supplier.
Gravel Calculation Formula
Volume (cubic feet) = Length × Width × Depth
Cubic yards = Cubic feet ÷ 27
Weight (US tons) = Cubic yards × US tons per cubic yard
Order quantity = Exact quantity × (1 + waste ÷ 100)
Metric tonnes = US short tons × 0.90718474
Gravel Calculator Example
For a 20 ft × 10 ft area with a 4-inch gravel layer and 10% allowance, the exact volume is about 2.47 cubic yards. With a density of 1.4 US tons per cubic yard, the estimated order is about 3.81 US tons.
GRAVEL CALCULATION
How to Calculate Gravel
Gravel quantity depends on three main measurements: the surface length, surface width and required depth. The calculator converts those measurements into volume and then estimates weight using the selected gravel density.
For rectangular projects, you can also use the Area Calculator to calculate the surface area before determining the gravel volume.
1. Area
Length × Width
Calculate the surface area of the project.
2. Volume
Area × Depth
Multiply the area by the required gravel depth.
3. Weight
Cubic Yards × Density
Estimate US tons using the selected material density.
How Much Gravel Do I Need?
Start by measuring the project area. For a rectangular project, multiply length by width to get square footage. Then multiply the area by the gravel depth after converting the depth into the same unit system.
In the United States, gravel is commonly ordered by cubic yards or US short tons. For international projects, cubic meters and metric tonnes may be more convenient. CornerSpan provides both volume systems so you can use the measurement system appropriate for your project.
If your project also requires a concrete base or footing, you can use the Concrete Calculator to estimate concrete volume separately.
US measurement
Cubic yards + US short tons
Metric measurement
Cubic meters + metric tonnes
Gravel Depth Guide
Gravel depth should be based on the intended use, ground conditions, base preparation and the type of material. There is no single depth that is correct for every project.
Always follow the project specification or supplier recommendation when a specific gravel depth is required.
Gravel Calculator Example
Suppose you have a 20 ft × 10 ft area and want a 4-inch gravel layer with a 10% allowance.
Actual weight can vary because gravel density changes with material type, moisture and compaction.
Common Gravel Calculator Uses
For projects that require surface-area calculations in different shapes, the Square Footage Calculator can help determine the area before estimating material quantities.
Gravel Calculator FAQ
How much gravel do I need?
Multiply the project length by width and required gravel depth to find volume. Convert cubic feet to cubic yards, then add an allowance for waste, uneven ground and material loss before ordering.
How many tons of gravel are in a cubic yard?
The weight depends on the gravel type, density, moisture and compaction. This calculator uses a selectable density in US short tons per cubic yard. When available, use the density supplied by your local gravel supplier.
How do I calculate gravel for a driveway?
Measure the driveway length and width, choose the required gravel depth, calculate the volume, convert it to cubic yards and estimate weight using the gravel density. Add an allowance before ordering.
What depth of gravel should I use?
The required depth depends on the application, existing base and material. Driveways, walkways, patios, drainage projects and decorative landscaping can require different depths. Follow the specification for your particular project.
Does the calculator include waste?
Yes. You can select an allowance from 0% to 20%. The allowance increases the recommended quantity to help account for waste, uneven surfaces and estimating differences.
Can I calculate gravel in tons and cubic yards?
Yes. The calculator provides cubic yards, cubic feet and cubic meters for volume. It also estimates US short tons and converts the order weight to metric tonnes.
What is the difference between a US ton and a metric tonne?
A US short ton equals 2,000 pounds, while a metric tonne equals 1,000 kilograms. One US short ton is approximately 0.907 metric tonnes.
Authoritative Gravel & Aggregate Resources
Gravel and aggregate properties vary by material and application. These organizations provide useful technical and industry information.
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Important Note
Gravel weight varies by material type, particle size, moisture and compaction. This calculator provides an estimate for planning and ordering. For a final order quantity, confirm the material density and recommended quantity with your local supplier.