DIY CalculatorBecause the stones are round, pea gravel shifts underfoot — edging and a compacted base under it help it stay put.
How much pea gravel do you need?
- Paths and patios: 2–3 inches over landscape fabric or a base.
- Around plants and as decorative ground cover: 2 inches.
- Play areas: much deeper; check playground safety guidelines for the depth you need.
- Use a border (steel, stone or timber) to keep it in place.
How much pea 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 / 0.8 t | 0.93 yd³ / 1.2 t | 1.23 yd³ / 1.6 t | 1.85 yd³ / 2.41 t |
| 200 sq ft | 1.23 yd³ / 1.6 t | 1.85 yd³ / 2.41 t | 2.47 yd³ / 3.21 t | 3.7 yd³ / 4.81 t |
| 500 sq ft | 3.09 yd³ / 4.01 t | 4.63 yd³ / 6.02 t | 6.17 yd³ / 8.02 t | 9.26 yd³ / 12.04 t |
| 1,000 sq ft | 6.17 yd³ / 8.02 t | 9.26 yd³ / 12.04 t | 12.35 yd³ / 16.05 t | 18.52 yd³ / 24.07 t |
Tons assume 2,600 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 much does a yard of pea gravel weigh?
About 2,500–2,800 lb, or roughly 1.3 tons. The calculator uses 2,600 lb; change it if your supplier gives a different figure.
How much area does a ton of pea gravel cover?
About 83 square feet at 3 inches deep, or 125 square feet at 2 inches.
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.