What is This Gravel Calculator?

Our gravel calculator is a sophisticated digital tool that instantly computes the exact amount of gravel needed for any project.

By inputting basic measurements about your area and preferred gravel depth, the calculator provides precise volume in cubic feet, cubic yards, or cubic meters, along with weight estimates in pounds, kilograms, or tons. It can also calculate total costs when you input material pricing.

How to Use the Gravel Calculator

1. Select Your Area Shape: Choose between calculating by total area, rectangular space, or circular area using the radio buttons at the top of the form.
2. Input Dimensions:
   • For total area, enter the overall square footage and select your unit
   • For rectangular areas, input length and width with their respective units
   • For circular areas, enter the diameter with your preferred unit
3. Set Gravel Depth: Enter how deep you want the gravel layer to be. Common depths are 2-4 inches for landscaping, 4-6 inches for driveways, and 6-8+ inches for heavy-use areas.
4. Select Gravel Density: Choose from preset gravel types or input custom density values for specialized materials.
5. Add Pricing (Optional): Input cost per unit if you want to calculate total project expenses.
6. Calculate: Click the “Calculate” button to instantly view your results, including volume, weight, and estimated cost.

Tip: For irregularly shaped areas, divide them into multiple rectangular sections, calculate each separately, then sum the results for your total gravel needs.

How the Calculator Works

Volume Calculation Formulas

• Rectangular Areas: Volume = Length × Width × Depth
• Circular Areas: Volume = π × (Diameter/2)² × Depth
• Unit Conversion: The calculator automatically converts between feet, yards, meters, and inches.

Weight Calculation

Weight is determined using the formula: Weight = Volume × Density

Our calculator uses these standard gravel densities (which you can customize):

• Standard gravel: 1,680 kg/m³ or 105 lbs/ft³
• Gravel with sand: 1,920 kg/m³ or 120 lbs/ft³
• Dry sand: 1,600 kg/m³ or 100 lbs/ft³
• Wet sand: 2,080 kg/m³ or 130 lbs/ft³.

Cost Calculation

When you provide pricing information, the calculator determines total cost using: Total Cost = Quantity × Price per Unit

The tool automatically handles unit conversions between volume and weight measurements for pricing, ensuring accurate cost estimates regardless of how your supplier prices their materials.

Gravel Types and Applications

Choosing the right gravel type ensures optimal performance and aesthetics for your project:

Gravel Type	Typical Size	Best Uses	Key Characteristics
Pea Gravel	1/4″ – 3/8″	Walkways, playgrounds, decorative landscaping	Smooth, rounded stones, comfortable underfoot
Crushed Stone	1/2″ – 2″	Driveways, drainage systems, base layers	Angular pieces that lock together, excellent stability
River Rock	1″ – 4″	Dry creek beds, decorative borders, drainage	Smooth, rounded stones of various colors
Jersey Shore	3/8″ – 3/4″	Landscaping, paths, driveways	Golden yellow color, naturally decorative
Marble Chips	1/2″ – 1″	Decorative landscaping, garden beds	Bright white color,

Practical Application Examples

Example 1: Garden Pathway

A 3-foot wide, 20-foot long pathway at 2-inch depth using pea gravel:

• Volume: 3 × 20 × (2/12) = 10 cubic feet or 0.37 cubic yards
• Weight: Approximately 1,050 lbs or 0.525 tons
• Coverage: Optimal for comfortable walking surface

Example 2: Driveway Installation

A 12-foot wide, 50-foot long driveway at 6-inch depth using crushed stone:

• Volume: 12 × 50 × (6/12) = 300 cubic feet or 11.11 cubic yards
• Weight: Approximately 15.5 tons
• Application: Would typically be installed in compacted layers for stability.

FAQ

Q1. How much extra gravel should I order to account for compaction and settling?

A: We recommend ordering 10-15% more gravel than your calculated volume. Gravel naturally compacts over time and with weather exposure. For projects requiring heavy compaction (like driveways), add 20% to your total. This buffer ensures you won’t run short and maintains proper depth after settling occurs.

Q2. What’s the difference between buying gravel by weight versus volume?

A: Suppliers typically sell gravel by weight (tons) for bulk orders and by volume (cubic yards) for smaller quantities. Weight measurements are more accurate since gravel density varies by type. Our calculator handles both methods, but we recommend verifying with your supplier which measurement they use for pricing.

Q3. How do I calculate gravel needs for a French drain or drainage project?

A: For French drains, calculate the trench volume (length × width × depth) and subtract 30-40% for the drainage pipe space. Use angular crushed stone (1/2″ to 1″) as it creates better drainage voids than rounded gravel. Depth typically ranges from 8-12 inches depending on soil conditions.

Q4. Which gravel type is best for preventing weed growth?

A: While no gravel completely prevents weeds, angular crushed stone (1/4″ minus) compacts tightly, leaving less space for weeds. Adding a landscape fabric underneath provides the best protection. Avoid rounded pea gravel for weed-prone areas as it doesn’t interlock well.

Q5. How does gravel color affect heat absorption and maintenance?

A: Dark-colored gravel (like basalt) absorbs more heat, which can benefit snow melt in cold climates but may harm heat-sensitive plants. Light-colored gravel (like limestone) reflects heat but shows stains more easily. Consider your climate and aesthetic preferences when choosing.

Q6. Can I mix different gravel types in the same project?

A: Yes, but with considerations. Use larger, angular stone as a base layer and smaller decorative gravel on top. Avoid mixing sizes randomly as smaller pieces will settle into gaps between larger stones. The calculator can handle custom densities if you’re using mixed materials.

Q7. What equipment do I need for spreading gravel efficiently?

A: For small areas (under 100 sq ft): wheelbarrow, rake, and tamper. Medium areas (100-500 sq ft): add a mechanical compactor. Large areas (500+ sq ft): consider renting a skid-steer with gravel attachment. Always use proper safety equipment including gloves, eye protection, and sturdy footwear.

Q8. How often will I need to replenish gravel in high-traffic areas?

A: Driveways typically need 1-2 inches of fresh gravel every 2-3 years. Pathways may require annual touch-ups in worn areas. Factors affecting replenishment include: vehicle traffic, weather conditions, gravel type, and base preparation quality.

Q9. What’s the proper way to prepare the base before laying gravel?

A: Proper base preparation follows these steps:

1. Excavate to desired depth plus 2-3 inches for base material
2. Install landscape fabric (except for paved base projects)
3. Add and compact a 2-3 inch base layer of crushed aggregate (3/4″ minus)
4. Ensure proper grading for drainage (1-2% slope away from structures)
5. Install gravel top layer and compact.

Q10. Are there hidden costs beyond the gravel price I should budget for?

A: Yes, consider these additional expenses:

• Delivery fees ($50-$150 depending on distance)
• Equipment rentals (compactor, skid-steer)
• Base materials (crushed stone, landscape fabric)
• Labor costs if hiring help
• Disposal fees for old material removal
• Taxes and potential permit costs

Q11. What’s the price difference between bagged and bulk gravel?

A: Bulk gravel is typically 30-50% cheaper per cubic yard than bagged gravel. However, bagged gravel offers advantages for small projects: no delivery fees, easier handling, and consistent quality. For projects over 1 cubic yard, bulk delivery is more economical.

Q12. How do I choose between local quarry and big-box store suppliers?

A: Local quarries often offer better prices for bulk orders, more material variety, and expert advice. Big-box stores provide convenience, smaller quantities, and consistent hours. We recommend getting quotes from both and comparing total costs including delivery.

Q13. How does soil type beneath the gravel affect my calculations?

A: Soft clay soils may require additional base material (add 15-20% to depth). Sandy, well-draining soils need minimal adjustment. In areas with poor drainage, consider increasing gravel depth by 2 inches to prevent base material from mixing with soil.

Q14. What’s the maximum slope angle gravel will maintain without washing away?

A: Gravel typically stays in place on slopes up to 15-20 degrees. For steeper slopes, use angular crushed stone (1-2 inches) and consider stabilization grids or retaining walls. Increase calculation depth by 25% for sloped areas to account for wash-out over time.

Q15. How does freeze-thaw cycle affect gravel depth requirements?

A: In cold climates, add 1-2 inches to your calculated depth to account for frost heave. Use angular gravel that interlocks rather than rounded stone, which is more prone to displacement during freezing conditions.