Gravel Calculator
Enter your project area and depth to get gravel in cubic yards and tons — the two units suppliers actually sell by.
Typical depths: 2" decorative cover · 3–4" walkways · 4–6" driveways.
How the math works
cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27
tons = cubic yards × 1.4
Gravel is sold by the yard (volume) or by the ton (weight), so you usually need both numbers. We convert your depth from inches to feet, compute volume, then convert to tons using 1.4 tons per cubic yard — a good middle value. In reality crushed stone runs about 1.3–1.45 tons per yard depending on stone type and how wet it is, so treat the tonnage as an estimate and confirm the factor with your supplier.
Choosing a depth
Decorative ground cover around plants needs only 2 inches. Walkways hold up at 3–4 inches. Driveways need 4–6 inches — ideally in two layers with a compacted base of larger stone underneath and a finish layer of smaller stone on top.
FAQ
- How much does one yard of gravel cover?
- One cubic yard covers about 100 sq ft at 3 inches deep, or 80 sq ft at 4 inches deep.
- Do I need landscape fabric under gravel?
- For paths and decorative beds, yes — it dramatically slows weeds mixing into the stone. Under driveways it's optional.
- What size gravel for a driveway?
- A base of 2–3" crushed stone compacted, topped with ¾" minus (crushed with fines) which locks together.