Gravel Calculator

Multiply your area's square footage by the desired depth (in feet) to get cubic feet. For example, a 10×20-foot patio at 2 inches deep needs 10 × 20 × 0.167 = 33.3 cubic feet (about 1.23 cubic yards or 1.6 tons). Use the calculator above for instant results for any shape or size.

Most gravel weighs about 2,700–3,000 lbs (1.35–1.5 tons) per cubic yard. Pea gravel averages 2,600 lbs/yd³. Crushed stone averages 2,700 lbs/yd³. River rock is about 2,700 lbs/yd³. Lava rock is much lighter at about 1,350 lbs/yd³. Always confirm with your supplier as density varies by source.

For patios and walkways, 2 inches of pea gravel or decorative stone is standard. For driveways, 4–6 inches of crushed stone is recommended (including a compacted base layer). For drainage and French drains, 6–12 inches. For landscaping beds, 2 inches of decorative gravel is usually enough.

At 2 inches deep, one ton of gravel covers about 100 square feet. At 4 inches deep, it covers about 50 square feet. The exact coverage depends on gravel type and density, but these are reliable estimates for most crushed stone and pea gravel.

Crushed stone (#57 or #411) is the best choice for driveways. Its angular edges lock together when compacted, creating a stable surface. A proper gravel driveway uses three layers: a #3 stone base (4 inches), a #57 stone middle layer (4 inches), and a #8 or #411 stone top layer (2–4 inches). Pea gravel is not recommended for driveways — it shifts under tires.

For small projects under 0.5 tons, bags are practical. For larger projects, bulk delivery is 50–70% cheaper. A 0.5 cu ft bag of pea gravel costs $4–$6, while bulk pea gravel costs $30–$65 per ton delivered. The break-even point is typically around 0.5–1 ton. Our calculator shows both options for easy comparison.

Bagged gravel costs $4–$10 per 0.5 cu ft bag depending on type. Pea gravel and crushed stone are cheapest ($4–$6). Marble chips and decorative stone are more expensive ($6–$10). In bulk, gravel runs $30–$65 per ton delivered. A standard 200 sq ft patio at 2 inches deep costs $120–$260 in bags or $50–$100 in bulk.

Yes — landscape fabric is strongly recommended under decorative gravel and pea gravel. It prevents gravel from sinking into the soil and stops weeds from growing through. Use commercial-grade woven fabric, not cheap plastic sheeting. For driveways, geotextile fabric between the base layer and soil is essential to prevent mixing.

A cubic yard of pea gravel weighs approximately 2,600 lbs (1.3 tons). This is important for delivery planning — most dump trucks carry 10–15 tons. A typical pickup truck can safely haul about 0.5 cubic yards of pea gravel (about 1,300 lbs).

Pea gravel has smooth, round edges and is comfortable to walk on, making it ideal for patios and garden paths. Crushed stone has sharp, angular edges that interlock when compacted, making it better for driveways, foundations, and base material. Pea gravel shifts underfoot; crushed stone stays in place.

For a circle, the formula is: Area = π × (diameter ÷ 2)². For example, a 10-foot diameter fire pit surround at 2 inches deep: Area = 3.14 × 5² = 78.5 sq ft. Volume = 78.5 × 0.167 = 13.1 cu ft. Weight ≈ 1,257 lbs (0.63 tons). Our calculator handles circular areas automatically.

A French drain typically needs a trench 6–12 inches wide and 18–24 inches deep, filled with ¾-inch crushed stone. For a 50-foot French drain that is 12 inches wide and 18 inches deep, you need about 75 cu ft (2.78 cu yd) or about 3.75 tons of crushed stone. Wrap the pipe and stone in filter fabric to prevent clogging.