How to calculate gravel
cubic yards = L (ft) × W (ft) × (depth in ÷ 12) ÷ 27
tons ≈ cubic yards × weight per cubic yard
Gravel is sold by volume (cubic yards or cubic metres) or by weight (tons or tonnes). Calculate the volume first, then multiply by the weight of your material to compare quotes.
Worked example
A 30 × 10 ft path, 4 inches deep: 300 sq ft × 0.333 ft = 100 cu ft, or 3.7 cubic yards. Add 10 percent for compaction and you need about 4.1 cubic yards, roughly 5.7 tons of crushed stone.
How deep should gravel be?
| Project | Typical depth |
|---|---|
| Decorative top layer, garden beds | 2 in (5 cm) |
| Walkways and paths | 3 to 4 in (8–10 cm) |
| Patio or paver base | 4 to 6 in (10–15 cm) |
| Gravel driveway, total depth in layers | 8 to 12 in (20–30 cm) |
Driveways are usually built in layers: a base of larger crushed stone, then a middle layer and a finer top layer. Calculate each layer separately.
Why add extra?
Crushed stone compacts when you tamp or drive on it, so a loose layer ends up thinner than you spread it. Adding about 10 percent covers compaction and uneven ground.
Approximate weights
| Material | Per cubic yard | Per cubic metre |
|---|---|---|
| Crushed stone, gravel | ≈ 1.4 tons | ≈ 1.6 to 1.7 tonnes |
| Sand, dry | ≈ 1.35 tons | ≈ 1.6 tonnes |
| Topsoil, dry | ≈ 1.1 tons | ≈ 1.3 tonnes |
Wet material weighs more. Check your trailer or truck's payload before you haul it yourself.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
Most gravel and crushed stone weighs roughly 1.4 tons (about 2,800 lb) per cubic yard, depending on stone size and moisture.
How many square feet does a ton of gravel cover?
At 2 inches deep, one ton of gravel covers roughly 110 to 120 sq ft. At 4 inches it covers about half that.
Can I use this for topsoil or sand?
Yes. Choose the material from the list to get the right approximate weight.
Should I buy gravel by the ton or by the yard?
Use whichever your supplier quotes. This calculator gives both so you can compare.
Last updated November 1, 2026.