Gravel Calculator

Free online gravel calculator to estimate the amount of gravel, stone, or aggregate needed for driveways, paths, and landscaping. Calculate cubic yards, tons, and bags based on area and depth.

The Gravel Calculator helps you estimate the amount of gravel, crushed stone, or aggregate needed for your project. Enter area dimensions and depth to calculate volume, weight, and number of bags required.

What is a Gravel Calculator?

A Gravel Calculator is a practical tool for landscaping, construction, and home improvement projects that estimates the quantity of gravel, crushed stone, or aggregate materials needed to cover a specific area to a desired depth. By entering the dimensions of your project area and the depth of gravel required, the calculator determines the volume in cubic yards or meters, weight in tons, and the number of bags needed, helping you purchase the correct amount and avoid waste.

How to Use the Gravel Calculator

Select project type: rectangular (for driveways, paths) or circular (for features, ponds)
Enter the area dimensions in your preferred unit (length × width or diameter)
Specify the depth of gravel you want to apply (typically 2-4 inches or 5-10 cm)
Choose the type of gravel - each has different density affecting weight
Select the bag size if purchasing in bags rather than bulk
Click Calculate to see volume, weight, and number of bags needed
Optionally enter price per unit to estimate total project cost

Gravel Calculation Formulas

1. Rectangular Volume = Length × Width × Depth

2. Circular Volume = π × (Diameter/2)² × Depth

3. Weight = Volume × Density

4. Bags Needed = Weight / Bag Size

Recommended Gravel Depths

Driveway: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) for vehicles

Walkway/Path: 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) for foot traffic

Drainage: 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) for French drains

Decorative: 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) for garden beds

Tips for Gravel Projects

Add 5-10% extra gravel to account for settling and compaction
Use landscape fabric underneath to prevent weeds and mixing with soil
Compact gravel in layers for driveways - don't pour all at once
Pea gravel is smooth and good for paths, crushed stone better for driveways
Deeper gravel provides better drainage and stability
Edge your gravel area with pavers or border stones to contain material
1 cubic yard of gravel typically covers 100 sq ft at 3 inches deep

About Gravel Types

Gravel comes in many types, each suited for different applications. Pea gravel (small, rounded stones) is comfortable for walkways and decorative landscaping. Crushed stone (angular fragments) compacts well and is ideal for driveways and base layers. River rock (smooth, larger stones) works well for drainage and decorative features. Limestone and granite are durable crushed stones for high-traffic areas. Lava rock is lightweight and excellent for drainage and decorative mulch. The stone size typically ranges from 1/4 inch to 2 inches in diameter.

Common Gravel Estimation Mistakes

Not accounting for compaction - gravel settles 10-20% over time
Using insufficient depth for the application
Forgetting to prepare the base with landscape fabric
Not adding extra material for waste and settling
Choosing wrong gravel type for the application
Underestimating how much volume small areas need at proper depth

Gravel Calculator

Project Type

Area Dimensions

Gravel Settings