Calculate exactly how much gravel you need for driveways, walkways, patios, and landscaping. Get instant volume, weight, and cost estimates.
Density: 100 lb/ft³ (1600 kg/m³)
Local prices: $30-75/yard typical
50×12 ft driveway with crushed stone base
30×4 ft path with decorative pea gravel
8 ft radius circle with river rock
20×20 ft patio with decomposed granite
Pro Tip: Always add 5-10% extra for spillage and uneven surfaces.
Unit Conversion:
3 inches = 3 ÷ 12 = 0.25 feet
10 cm = 10 ÷ 100 = 0.1 meters
| Project Type | Recommended Depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Driveway | 4–6 inches | Heavy traffic, use crushed stone |
| Garden Path | 2–3 inches | Light traffic, pea gravel works well |
| French Drain | 6–12 inches | Drainage layer, use clean gravel |
| Landscaping Bed | 2–4 inches | Decorative, various types suitable |
Different gravel sizes and shapes have unique densities that affect weight calculations.
Angular 3/4" stones, ideal for driveways and base material
Density: 100 lb/ft³ (1600 kg/m³)
Smooth 3/8" rounded stones, perfect for walkways and patios
Density: 96 lb/ft³ (1540 kg/m³)
Decorative smooth stones 1-3", great for landscaping beds
Density: 100 lb/ft³ (1600 kg/m³)
Fine crusite mix, excellent for compacting and base layers
Density: 105 lb/ft³ (1680 kg/m³)
Natural tan/gold color, popular for pathways in the Southwest
Density: 100 lb/ft³ (1600 kg/m³)
Impact: A cubic foot of crushed stone weighs more than the same volume of pea gravel due to better packing.
Money-saving tip: Compare prices per cubic yard vs. per ton, and consider delivery minimums.
For a typical single-car driveway (10×20 ft) with 4 inches of gravel depth, you'll need approximately 2.5 cubic yards or about 3.5 tons. For a two-car driveway (20×20 ft), double those amounts. Always add 5-10% extra for compaction and spillage.
Cubic yards measure volume while tons measure weight. One cubic yard of gravel typically weighs 1.3-1.5 tons depending on the type. Suppliers sell by either unit - cubic yards are better for volume-based projects, tons for weight-sensitive applications.
Walkways: 2 inches. Patios: 3 inches. Driveways: 4-6 inches. French drains: 6-12 inches. Heavier traffic areas need more depth. For driveways, consider a 4-inch base layer of crushed stone topped with 2 inches of finishing gravel.
Crushed stone (#57 or #411) is best for driveways and high-traffic areas because angular edges interlock and compact well. Pea gravel is ideal for walkways, play areas, and decorative use due to its smooth, rounded texture that's comfortable underfoot.
Most suppliers offer free delivery for orders over 5-10 cubic yards. Smaller orders typically cost $50-150 for delivery within 10-20 miles. Always compare total delivered price rather than just material cost when shopping.