Driveway Gravel & Material Estimator
Standard Gravel (1.4 tons/yd)
Crushed Stone (1.5 tons/yd)
Crusher Run (1.25 tons/yd)
Topsoil (1.1 tons/yd)
Sand (1.3 tons/yd)
Asphalt Grindings (1.35 tons/yd)
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Area (Sq. Ft.)
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Volume (Cubic Yards)
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Estimated Weight (Tons)
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Estimated Material Cost
How to Estimate Gravel for Your Driveway
Planning a new driveway or refreshing an existing one requires accurate calculations to avoid ordering too little material or wasting money on excess stone. This calculator helps homeowners and contractors estimate the volume (cubic yards) and weight (tons) of material needed based on the specific dimensions of the project area.
The Calculation Formula
To determine the amount of gravel needed, we use a three-step volumetric calculation:
- Calculate Area: Multiply the Length (ft) by the Width (ft) to get square footage.
- Calculate Volume: Convert the desired depth from inches to feet (Depth รท 12), then multiply by the Area to get Cubic Feet. Divide this by 27 to convert Cubic Feet into Cubic Yards.
- Convert to Weight: Multiply the Cubic Yards by the material's density factor (Tons per Cubic Yard) to determine the total tonnage required.
Pro Tip: Professional excavators recommend adding a "compaction factor" of 5-10% to your order. Gravel settles over time, and a little extra ensures you maintain your desired depth after the driveway is driven on.
Choosing the Right Depth
The depth of your gravel layer depends heavily on the condition of the ground underneath and the intended use:
- 2-3 Inches: Ideal for "top dressing" an existing driveway that just needs a fresh layer of stone for aesthetics or to fill minor potholes.
- 4-6 Inches: Recommended for new driveways over a solid dirt base. This provides enough structure to support passenger vehicles.
- 8-12 Inches: Necessary for heavy machinery paths or areas with very soft, unstable soil (often done in multiple layers with different stone sizes).
Understanding Material Density
Not all stones weigh the same. While a cubic yard is a measure of volume (space), materials are sold by weight (tons). Our calculator adjusts for these differences:
- Standard Gravel (1.4 tons/yd): The most common choice for driveways.
- Crushed Stone (1.5 tons/yd): Heavier and more angular, locking together well for a stable base.
- Crusher Run (1.25 tons/yd): A mix of stone dust and crushed rock, great for a smooth, hard-packed surface.
Average Costs
Gravel prices vary significantly by region and quarry distance. On average, you can expect to pay between $30 and $60 per ton for standard driveway gravel. Delivery fees are usually extra and are calculated based on the distance from the supply yard to your home.