Gravel Calculator
Calculates crushed stone, decorative pea gravel, decomposed granite (DG), river rock, and road base aggregates in both cubic yards and tons (standard 1.4 tons/cu yd density factor).
Formula
Cubic Yards = (L × W × (Depth ÷ 12)) ÷ 27 × (1 + Waste %); Tons = Cubic Yards × Density
1. Area = Length × Width 2. Net Volume Cu Ft = Area × (Depth in ÷ 12) 3. Base Cubic Yards = Net Volume ÷ 27 4. Total Cubic Yards with Waste = Base Cu Yds × (1 + Waste %) 5. Tons = Total Cubic Yards × Aggregate Density Factor (1.35 to 1.50 tons/yd)
Inputs
- Driveway / Pathway Length
- Driveway / Pathway Width
- Gravel Layer Depth
- Gravel Aggregate Type
Worked example
Laying a 500 sq ft driveway surface with 4 inches of compacted #57 crushed limestone.
Outcome: Volume is 166.7 cu ft (6.17 cubic yards). With 10% compaction allowance, total volume is 6.79 cubic yards. Multiplying by 1.4 tons/yd gives 9.51 tons of crushed stone.
Why does angular crushed gravel make a better driveway than smooth round pea gravel?
Crushed stone (#57 or Crusher Run) has sharp, angular edges that interlock tightly when driven over, forming a firm driving surface. Smooth round pea gravel rolls like marbles under car tires and creates ruts.