DIY CalculatorGravel is heavy: a cubic yard of 3/4" crushed gravel weighs about 1.4 tons, so a small pickup can usually carry only half a yard at a time.
How much gravel do you need?
- Walkways and garden paths: 2–3 inches.
- Patios and under decks: 3–4 inches.
- Driveways: 4–6 inches over a compacted base, laid in layers.
- Order about 5–10% extra for uneven ground and edges.
How much gravel for common areas (cubic yards / tons, no extra added)
| Area | 2 in deep | 3 in deep | 4 in deep | 6 in deep |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 sq ft | 0.62 yd³ / 0.86 t | 0.93 yd³ / 1.3 t | 1.23 yd³ / 1.73 t | 1.85 yd³ / 2.59 t |
| 200 sq ft | 1.23 yd³ / 1.73 t | 1.85 yd³ / 2.59 t | 2.47 yd³ / 3.46 t | 3.7 yd³ / 5.19 t |
| 500 sq ft | 3.09 yd³ / 4.32 t | 4.63 yd³ / 6.48 t | 6.17 yd³ / 8.64 t | 9.26 yd³ / 12.96 t |
| 1,000 sq ft | 6.17 yd³ / 8.64 t | 9.26 yd³ / 12.96 t | 12.35 yd³ / 17.28 t | 18.52 yd³ / 25.93 t |
Tons assume 2,800 lb per cubic yard. Add extra for waste and settling when you order.
How to use this calculator
- Measure the length and width (or the diameter of a round area). Use any unit — feet, inches, yards or meters.
- Split odd shapes into rectangles, circles and triangles, and add each one with “Add another area”.
- Enter the depth. Results update as you type: cubic yards, tons and bags.
- Optionally enter a price to estimate the cost.
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Frequently asked questions
How many tons of gravel are in a cubic yard?
About 1.4 tons (2,800 lb) for typical 3/4" crushed gravel, but anywhere from 1.2 to 1.5 tons depending on the stone and moisture. Ask your supplier for their number and enter it under Density.
How much area does a ton of gravel cover?
At 2 inches deep, one ton covers about 115 square feet; at 3 inches, about 77 square feet; at 4 inches, about 58 square feet (at 2,800 lb per cubic yard).
Is it cheaper to buy bags or bulk?
For anything over about 1 cubic yard, bulk delivery is usually cheaper per cubic yard than bags, though you pay a delivery fee. Bags make sense for small jobs, top-ups and places a truck can’t reach.