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Gardenly3D

Gravel Calculator

Enter your project dimensions and gravel depth to estimate how much you need — in cubic yards, tons, bags, or metric equivalents. Results are approximate and intended for planning purposes only; always confirm final quantities with your supplier or a professional before ordering.

Calculate Your Gravel

ft
ft
in

Volume Preview

Total Volume

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Weight

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Bags Needed

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standard 0.5 cu ft bags

Coverage Area

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With 10% Compaction Buffer

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Recommended to account for compaction

How to Calculate Gravel

  1. 1

    Measure your project area

    Use a tape measure to find the length and width of the area you want to cover. For paths, measure the total length and desired width.

  2. 2

    Choose your gravel depth

    Paths typically need 2-3 inches, driveways 4-6 inches, and drainage projects 6-12 inches of gravel. Depth depends on the intended use and traffic.

  3. 3

    Select your gravel type

    Different gravels have different weights. Pea gravel and river rock are lighter than crushed stone and decomposed granite. Choose your type for tonnage estimates.

  4. 4

    Order with overage

    Add 10% to your calculated amount to cover compaction, spillage, and uneven ground. It's always better to have a little extra than to run short.

Pro Tips

  • Use 2-3 inches of gravel for garden paths and 4-6 inches for driveways — thinner layers shift underfoot and don't hold up to traffic.
  • Add 10% extra to your order to account for compaction — gravel compresses about 10-15% when packed down.
  • Always install edge restraints (metal, plastic, or stone edging) before laying gravel to keep it contained.
  • Lay landscape fabric under gravel to prevent weeds. Skip this only for drainage applications where water needs to flow through.
  • For driveways, use a base layer of larger crushed stone (3/4 inch) topped with smaller gravel for a stable, well-draining surface.
  • Order gravel by the ton for large projects — suppliers price bulk gravel by weight, and our calculator gives you both volume and tonnage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much gravel do I need for a 10x10 area?
A 10×10 foot area (100 sq ft) at 3 inches deep needs about 25 cubic feet or 0.93 cubic yards of gravel — approximately 1.3 tons of pea gravel or 1.25 tons of crushed stone.
How do I convert cubic yards of gravel to tons?
Multiply cubic yards by the material's density and divide by 2,000. For pea gravel: 1 cubic yard × 2,800 lbs ÷ 2,000 = 1.4 tons. Our calculator handles this conversion automatically.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
Driveways need 4-6 inches of gravel total, usually in two layers: a 3-4 inch base of larger crushed stone (#57 or #2) topped with 2 inches of smaller gravel for a smooth surface.
How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
Pea gravel weighs about 2,800 lbs (1.4 tons) per cubic yard. Crushed stone is about 2,700 lbs, river rock about 2,600 lbs, and decomposed granite about 3,000 lbs per cubic yard.
What is the cheapest gravel for landscaping?
Crushed stone and decomposed granite are typically the most affordable options for landscaping. Pea gravel is a mid-range choice, and decorative river rock tends to be the most expensive.
How much area does a ton of gravel cover?
One ton of pea gravel covers approximately 100 square feet at 2 inches deep, or 65 square feet at 3 inches deep. Coverage varies by gravel type — denser materials cover less area per ton.

Results are approximate and intended for planning purposes only. Material densities, coverage rates, and quantities are estimates that may vary based on actual conditions, product specifications, and installation methods. Always consult a professional for final specifications.

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