How do I calculate how much gravel I need?

Multiply length by width by depth in feet to get cubic feet, divide by 27 to get cubic yards, and multiply cubic yards by the gravel density to estimate tons.

Free gravel calculator · tons, yards & bags

How Much Gravel Do I Need?

Estimate gravel for a driveway, patio, walkway, or drainage project in seconds. Enter your measurements and get instant results in cubic yards, tons, and 50 lb bags.

Mobile-friendly Project-based depth help Instant results

Driveway

Vehicle traffic usually needs a thicker gravel base.

Gravel Calculator

Use feet for length and width, and inches for depth.

Project type

Gravel type

Length (ft)

Width (ft)

Depth (inches)

Driveway projects often use about 4–6 inches of gravel.

Results are estimates for planning purposes.

Your Estimated Gravel Needed

Enter your measurements to see your estimate.

Cubic yards

3.56

For ordering bulk gravel

Tons of gravel

4.98

Based on selected gravel type

50 lb bags

199

Approximate equivalent

Order about 5–10% extra to cover compaction, uneven ground, and small measurement mistakes.

How do you want to get your gravel?

Once you know how much gravel you need, choose the next step that fits your project and budget.

Get It Delivered

Best for larger projects and bulk orders.

Get Local Delivery Options

Pick It Up Yourself

Best for smaller projects or quick jobs.

Check Store Prices

Tools & Extras

Everything you need to complete your project.

Shop Tools

Bulk gravel delivery lead form

Get Gravel Delivered Near You

Enter your details to get local delivery options.

Fast local quotes

No obligation

Simple request

Don’t fill this out if you're human:

Zip code

Email or phone

Name

Project type

Estimated tons needed

Estimated cubic yards

Project notes

Please calculate first so the lead includes the project summary.

Request received

Your lead was submitted. Redirecting to the quote destination now.

Recommended Gravel Depth by Project Type

These default depths are practical starting points. Real depth can change based on traffic, drainage, soil conditions, and whether you already have a compacted base.

Driveway

Best for cars, parking areas, and heavier traffic. Usually needs a stronger base and better compaction.

Typical depth: 4–6 inches

Patio

Useful under pavers or as a finished gravel sitting area. Leveling matters more than raw thickness.

Typical depth: 3–4 inches

Walkway

Works for foot traffic and light decorative paths. Usually thinner than a driveway.

Typical depth: 2–3 inches

Drainage

Often used around pipes, trenches, and runoff control. Depth varies by system design.

Typical depth: 4–8 inches

Need to Buy Gravel?

Browse common buying options for bagged gravel, bulk delivery, and project accessories.

Home improvement stores

Good for bagged gravel, edging, landscape fabric, wheelbarrows, rakes, and compacting tools.

Check price options

Bulk gravel suppliers

Better for larger driveway or patio projects where ordering by cubic yard or ton makes more sense.

Find local bulk suppliers

Project accessories

Add upsells like geotextile fabric, tamper tools, gloves, levels, and string lines.

Shop tools and extras

How to Calculate Gravel Step by Step

Simple way to calculate gravel.

Measure the area

Measure the length and width of the space in feet. Multiply them to get total square footage.

Convert depth to feet

Depth is usually entered in inches, so divide inches by 12 to convert it to feet before calculating volume.

Convert volume to yards and tons

Multiply area by depth to get cubic feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by density for tons.

Cubic feet = Length × Width × (Depth ÷ 12)
Cubic yards = Cubic feet ÷ 27
Tons = Cubic yards × Gravel density

Gravel Calculator FAQ

Common questions.

How much gravel does a cubic yard cover?

One cubic yard covers about 324 square feet at 1 inch deep, about 162 square feet at 2 inches deep, and about 81 square feet at 4 inches deep.

How many tons are in a cubic yard of gravel?

A common estimate is around 1.3 to 1.5 tons per cubic yard. The exact number changes based on stone size, moisture, and material density.

How deep should gravel be for a driveway?

Many driveways use about 4 to 6 inches of gravel. Heavy vehicles, softer soil, or poor drainage can require more.

Should I order extra gravel?

Yes. Ordering 5 to 10 percent extra is common because compacted gravel settles and measurements are rarely perfect.

Is bagged gravel or bulk gravel cheaper?

Bulk gravel is usually more cost-effective for larger jobs. Bagged gravel is easier for small areas or quick touch-ups.

What is the best gravel for a patio or walkway?

It depends on the finish you want. Pea gravel looks softer and decorative, while crushed stone often locks together better and moves less underfoot.