Gravel Calculator: How Much Gravel Will You Need?

How to Use the Gravel Calculator

This calculator helps you determine exactly how much gravel you'll need for projects like resurfacing driveways, landscaping borders, garden beds, creating a base for firepit areas, or even making a parking lot or road. Plan your project in cubic yards, tons, or bags based on the dimensions, area, or circle diameter and your selected gravel type for the most accurate results.

Step 1: Choose Your Calculation Method

The calculator offers three ways to determine how much gravel you need:

• Calculate by Dimensions: Enter the length and width of your rectangular or square project area.
• Calculate by Area: Enter the total area directly if you've already measured it.
• Calculate by Circle: Enter the diameter of a circular area for round projects.

Step 2: Enter Your Measurements

Input your project measurements using your preferred units and select your desired gravel depth. For most projects, a depth of 2-6 inches is recommended depending on the application.

Step 3: Select Your Gravel Type and Density

Choose the type of gravel that best fits your project needs:

• All Purpose Gravel: Versatile gravel suitable for most general construction and landscaping projects.
• Pea Gravel: Small, rounded stones ideal for walkways, patios, and decorative applications.
• Crushed Stone: Angular pieces that lock together well, ideal for driveways and drainage.
• Road Base Gravel: Compacts well for stable, load-bearing surfaces like driveways.
• River Rock: Smooth, rounded stones for water features and decorative landscaping.
• Granite Screenings: Fine granitic particles for pathways and between pavers.

Step 4: Specify Pricing (Optional)

To get cost estimates, you can enter your local pricing information (optional). Select how you plan to purchase gravel (by bag, cubic yard, ton, etc.) and enter the price per unit. The calculator will then provide a total cost estimate for your project. If no cost is enter, the tool will return a ball-park estimate of your project cost based on the average price per cubic yard of gravel in the United States between $10 - $100.

Step 5: Calculate and Review Results

Click "Calculate Gravel" to generate your results, which include:

• Volume in cubic yards, cubic feet, cubic meters, and liters
• Weight in pounds, tons, kg, and metric tons
• Area measurements (for dimension and circle calculations)
• Estimated cost based on your price inputs or a general price range
• Compaction adjustment recommendation
• Information about your selected gravel type and usage tips

Common Gravel Uses and Required Depths

Different projects require specific gravel types and depths to ensure proper function and durability. Here are some examples.

Step-by-Step Calculation Example

Let's walk through a real-world example to demonstrate how the calculator works. Imagine we're building a gravel driveway measuring 40 feet long by 12 feet wide with a depth of 4 inches using crushed stone.

The key to accurate gravel estimates lies in understanding how different gravel types have different densities. For example, lava rock is much lighter per cubic yard than crushed stone or road base. The calculator accounts for these differences by applying specific density factors for each gravel type.

I recommend adding at least 20% extra gravel to your calculated amount. This accounts for compaction, settling, uneven surfaces, and inevitable waste during installation. The calculator already factors this in, but it's good to understand why I decided to include the extra material in the results section.

Planning other landscape projects soon? You might also find these calculators helpful: Sand Calculator for sandbox or masonry projects, Mulch Calculator for garden beds, or the Topsoil Calculator for lawn preparation.