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Gravel Calculator

Quick answer: Multiply length × width (feet) × depth (inches ÷ 12) to get cubic feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by your supplier's density, often around 1.4 tons per yard for common gravel. A 20 × 10 ft area at 3 inches needs roughly 1.85 yd³, or about 2.6 tons.

How the estimate works

The calculator works out the box-shaped volume of your bed: length times width gives square feet, and depth converted to feet gives cubic feet. Twenty-seven cubic feet make one cubic yard, which is how most North American yards sell bulk stone. Weight comes from multiplying yards by a density you enter. Density varies with rock type, size, moisture and how much fine material is mixed in, so treat the default as a stand-in for your supplier's number. The extra percentage covers uneven subgrade and settling.

Worked example: gravel calculator

Illustrative examples (2026-10-29), not quotes or guarantees.

A 20 ft by 10 ft side path at 3 in with 5% extra: 200 ft² × 0.25 ft = 50 ft³, × 1.05 = 52.5 ft³ ≈ 1.94 yd³. At 1.4 tons per yard that is about 2.7 tons. At an illustrative $45 per yard the material is roughly $88 before delivery.

FAQ

Is a ton of gravel the same as a yard?

No. A yard is volume and a ton is weight. Many gravels weigh roughly 1.3–1.5 tons per cubic yard, but your supplier's figure decides.

What depth should I enter?

Paths often use 2–3 in, driveways 4 in or more over a base. See driveway depth.

Can I use metres?

Convert first: 1 m = 3.28 ft. The result also shows m³.

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