What is the Gravel Calculator?
The Gravel Calculator is a material estimation tool for landscaping, driveway construction, and hardscaping. It calculates the exact volume of crushed stone, pea gravel, or base rock required to fill a given area, outputting the results in both cubic yards and tons.
How to Calculate Gravel Volume and Weight (Formulas)
Because quarries sell gravel by the ton, but physical space is measured in volume (yards), you must calculate the volume and then apply a weight density multiplier.
- Cubic Yards Formula: (Length in feet * Width in feet * Depth in feet) / 27. (Metric inputs are automatically converted by the tool).
- Note: Depth must be converted to feet! (e.g., 4 inches = 0.33 feet).
- Tonnage Formula: Total Cubic Yards * 1.4 (The standard density of dry, loose gravel).
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of gravel are in a cubic yard?
While it varies slightly based on the specific type of stone (basalt is heavier than limestone) and the moisture content, a standard cubic yard of dry, crushed gravel generally weighs between 1.35 and 1.50 tons (2,700 to 3,000 pounds).
How thick should a gravel driveway be?
A proper gravel driveway should consist of three distinct layers totaling 8 to 10 inches in depth. The foundation should be 4 inches of large #3 crushed stone, followed by 3-4 inches of #57 stone, and finally a 2-inch top dressing of crush-and-run (gravel dust) to bind it all together.
What is "Crush and Run" or "Item 4"?
Crush and run (also known as crusher run, quarry process, or Item 4) is a blend of angular crushed stone and fine stone dust. When wetted and compacted with a heavy machine, the dust turns into a cement-like binder, creating a rock-hard, flat surface that won't wash away in the rain.