Yard Materials
How to Calculate Gravel
Convert gravel area and depth into cubic yards and estimated tons for driveways, paths, and drainage stone.
Open Gravel CalculatorUse depth in inches
Gravel projects are often planned by inches of depth. Convert that depth to feet by dividing by 12 before multiplying by length and width.
Convert cubic yards to tons
Suppliers may price gravel by ton instead of cubic yard. Multiply cubic yards by a density estimate such as 1.4 tons per cubic yard, then verify the supplier's number.
Account for compaction
Base layers, driveways, and soft subgrade can compact or settle. Add an allowance and ask the supplier or installer about recommended depth for the material.
Use The Calculator With This Guide
This guide explains the measuring method, while the Gravel Calculator turns the same measurements into project quantities, waste-adjusted results, and a copyable shopping list. Use the guide first when you are deciding what to measure, then use the calculator when you are ready to compare material amounts.
Open Gravel CalculatorMeasurement Checks
- Forgetting that driveway stone depth is entered in inches.
- Using one density for every type of crushed stone or river rock.
- Not allowing for compaction on base layers.
Formula Reference
Cubic feet = length_ft × width_ft × depth_inches / 12
Cubic yards = cubic_feet / 27
Tons = cubic_yards × tons_per_cubic_yard
Adjusted tons = tons × (1 + waste_factor)
FAQ
Is river rock the same density as crushed gravel?
No. Stone size, shape, and moisture all affect tons per cubic yard. Use the density field to match the supplier's material.
Can I estimate delivery loads?
Use the waste-adjusted tons or cubic yards and compare with the supplier's truck capacity.