How to measure for gravel
Measure the length and width of your area in feet, then choose a depth in inches. For odd shapes, break the area into rectangles, calculate each one, and add the results together. Enter the numbers above and the calculator returns cubic yards, tons, the number of half-cubic-foot bags, and an estimated cost.
Recommended depths
- Walkways & garden paths: 2–3 inches
- Patios & shed bases: 3–4 inches
- Driveways: about 4 inches per layer, often over a coarser sub-base
- Drainage / French drains: fill to the trench depth
How the math works
Gravel is sold by volume (cubic yards) or by weight (tons). The calculator first finds the volume, then converts:
- Volume (ft³) = length × width × (depth ÷ 12)
- Cubic yards = volume ÷ 27
- Tons = cubic yards × material density
Because one cubic yard fills 27 cubic feet, a little depth covers a lot of ground — double-check your depth before ordering.
Choosing a material density
Different aggregates weigh different amounts per cubic yard, which changes the tonnage:
- Crushed stone ≈ 1.35 tons/yd³
- Pea gravel ≈ 1.40 tons/yd³
- Sand ≈ 1.45 tons/yd³
- River rock ≈ 1.30 tons/yd³
Moisture, stone size, and how tightly the material is packed all shift the real weight, so treat tonnage as a close estimate and confirm with your supplier.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Skipping the waste factor. Add 5–10% for compaction, uneven subgrade, and spillage. The calculator builds this in.
- Mixing units. Depth is entered in inches while length and width are in feet — the tool handles the conversion, but keep your tape measurements consistent.
- Ignoring the base. Loose gravel over soft soil sinks. Compact the subgrade and consider landscape fabric under the stone.
Estimating cost
Bulk gravel is far cheaper per cubic yard than bagged stone, so order by the ton for anything larger than a small planter or repair. Delivery, fuel surcharges, and minimum loads vary widely by region — use the regional adjustment and edit the unit price to match a local quote. The figure shown is an estimate of material cost only and does not include delivery, labor, or equipment rental.