Gravel Calculator
Updated Formulas shown
Gravel is sold by the ton or the cubic yard, so this calculator gives both. A 20 × 10 ft area at 3 inches needs about 1.9 yd³ or 2.7 tons of mixed gravel.
Gravel (mixed) needed
1.94 yd³
2.72 tons at 2,800 lb/yd³
- Weight
- 2.72 tons5,444 lb · 2.47 t
- Cubic feet
- 52.5 ft³
- Cubic meters
- 1.49 m³
- Area covered
- 200 ft²
Densities are typical loose figures; ask your supplier for theirs. Delivery minimums are often 1–3 yd³.
How to use it
- Typical depths: 2 in for decorative top-dressing, 3–4 in for paths and patios, 4–6 in base + 2 in top for driveways.
- Use the depth after compaction; crushed stone compacts about 10–15%.
The formula
Cubic yards = area (ft²) × depth (in) ÷ 12 ÷ 27. Tons = cubic yards × density (mixed gravel ≈ 1.4 tons per yd³).
Quick reference
| Area | 2 in deep | 3 in deep | 4 in deep | 6 in deep |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 ft² | 0.31 yd³ · 0.43 t | 0.46 yd³ · 0.65 t | 0.62 yd³ · 0.86 t | 0.93 yd³ · 1.3 t |
| 100 ft² | 0.62 yd³ · 0.86 t | 0.93 yd³ · 1.3 t | 1.23 yd³ · 1.73 t | 1.85 yd³ · 2.59 t |
| 200 ft² | 1.23 yd³ · 1.73 t | 1.85 yd³ · 2.59 t | 2.47 yd³ · 3.46 t | 3.7 yd³ · 5.19 t |
| 300 ft² | 1.85 yd³ · 2.59 t | 2.78 yd³ · 3.89 t | 3.7 yd³ · 5.19 t | 5.56 yd³ · 7.78 t |
| 500 ft² | 3.09 yd³ · 4.32 t | 4.63 yd³ · 6.48 t | 6.17 yd³ · 8.64 t | 9.26 yd³ · 12.96 t |
| 1000 ft² | 6.17 yd³ · 8.64 t | 9.26 yd³ · 12.96 t | 12.35 yd³ · 17.28 t | 18.52 yd³ · 25.93 t |
Related calculators
- Pea Gravel CalculatorPea gravel calculator for patios, paths and play areas: get cubic yards, tons and 0.
- Crushed Stone CalculatorCalculate crushed stone for driveways, drainage and paver bases: cubic yards and tons from area and depth.
- Gravel Driveway CalculatorPlan a gravel driveway: tons and cubic yards of base rock and top gravel from driveway length, width and depth.
- Cubic Yards to Tons CalculatorConvert cubic yards to tons (and tons to yards) for gravel, sand, topsoil, mulch, concrete and asphalt.
- River Rock CalculatorHow much river rock do you need? Get tons and cubic yards for beds, dry creeks and borders from area and depth.
Frequently asked questions
How many tons of gravel are in a cubic yard?
About 1.4 tons for typical mixed gravel; 1.35 for pea gravel and crushed stone; 1.5 for road base.
How much area does a ton of gravel cover?
At 2 inches deep, one ton covers about 115 ft²; at 4 inches, about 58 ft².
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Estimates only. Check quantities with your supplier or contractor before ordering.