Landscaping

Gravel Calculator: Cubic Yards, Tons and Depth

Estimate bulk gravel from area, depth and an adjustable material density.

Project measurements

Change the defaults to match your project and the product you plan to buy.

Project result

Your gravel plan

Turn area and depth into bulk volume, estimated weight and an optional delivered-material cost.

Open Project Planner →

Planning estimate only. Verify product coverage, package size, supplier specifications and project requirements before purchasing.

Methodology

Formula & assumptions

Base volume

length × width × depth

Depth is converted from inches to feet.

Planned volume

base volume × (1 + extra allowance %)

Adds ordering tolerance and material for grading or compaction.

Cubic yards

planned cubic feet ÷ 27

Bulk landscape and aggregate suppliers commonly quote cubic yards.

Estimated tons

cubic yards × density in tons/yd³

Use your supplier’s density for the specific gravel when available.

How to measure this project

Measure the finished length and width of the gravel area and choose the compacted depth you want. For curved paths, divide the shape into simpler sections or measure a reasonable average width. Depth can vary significantly when the base is uneven.

Before you buy materials

Weight is the least universal part of a gravel estimate. Stone type, particle size, moisture and compaction all affect density. If your supplier sells by ton, use their published conversion rather than a generic density whenever possible.

Reference

Depth coverage reference

Depth	Coverage from 1 yd³	Use as
1 in	~324 sq ft	Light top dressing.
2 in	~162 sq ft	Shallow paths / refresh layer.
3 in	~108 sq ft	Common planning depth for many landscape uses.
4 in	~81 sq ft	Deeper base or fill layer.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

Why can gravel tonnage differ from the calculator?

The calculator multiplies volume by the density you enter. Real density changes with stone type, grading, moisture and compaction, so supplier data is more reliable than a generic default.

Should depth be compacted or loose depth?

Use the project requirement that matches how your supplier and installer plan the material. If material will compact substantially, allow for that in the depth or extra percentage.

Can I use this for a curved path?

Yes as an approximation by multiplying path length by average width and depth. For irregular shapes, separate the area into sections and add the results.

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