Gravel Driveway Calculator
Enter your driveway size to get the gravel you need in cubic yards and tons, plus an estimated delivered cost. Waste is included.
Gravel needed
Estimated cost
How to calculate gravel for a driveway
Gravel is sold by volume or by weight. For a rectangular driveway, multiply length by width by depth, with everything in feet, then convert to cubic yards by dividing by 27. Depth is usually quoted in inches, so divide it by 12 first. To get tons, multiply cubic yards by 1.4.
Formula: cubic yards = length (ft) × width (ft) × depth (in ÷ 12) × (1 + waste %) ÷ 27, and tons = cubic yards × 1.4
Worked example: 12 ft × 20 ft × 4 in driveway
Volume = 12 × 20 × (4 ÷ 12) = 80 ft³. Add 10% for waste and uneven ground: 88 ft³. Divide by 27: 3.26 cubic yards. In tons, that is 4.6 tons.
How deep should gravel be?
Walkways are normally 3 to 4 inches. Driveways are 4 to 6 inches, compacted in layers, or more for heavy vehicles. A thin layer ruts quickly, so do not skimp on depth.
Tons or cubic yards?
Some suppliers sell by the yard, others by the ton. One cubic yard is about 1.4 tons, but the exact figure depends on stone type and moisture. Compare both prices before you order, and confirm delivery and spreading fees.
Common driveway sizes
Cost tips
Prices on this page are editable estimates, not quotes. Get 2 to 3 local quotes before you buy, and ask if delivery is included. Delivery, tax and waste can change the total a lot. Order a little extra for cuts and breakage, and confirm final quantities with your supplier or a qualified professional.
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Frequently asked questions
How many tons of gravel do I need for a driveway?
A 12 ft by 20 ft driveway at 4 inches deep needs about 3.26 cubic yards, which is roughly 4.6 tons, with 10% waste included.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
4 to 6 inches for driveways, compacted in layers. Walkways need 3 to 4 inches. Go deeper for heavy vehicles.
How many tons are in a cubic yard of gravel?
About 1.4 tons, though it varies by stone type and moisture. This calculator uses 1.4.
Do I need landscape fabric under gravel?
Yes, it stops weeds and keeps gravel from sinking into soil. Lay fabric over compacted soil before spreading gravel.
Are the prices accurate?
Prices are editable estimates. The defaults are typical US figures, and your local price can be higher or lower. Delivery fees are not included.
How do I convert cubic yards to tons?
Multiply cubic yards by 1.4. This calculator shows both.