Construction & ContractorsTonnage & Yards
Gravel Calculator
Estimate gravel, crushed stone, and road base in cubic yards and short tons with material density and bulk delivery pricing.
Calculation Results
Gravel Volume & Tonnage Formula
Cubic Yards = (Length ft × Width ft × Depth in / 12) / 27 | Tons = Cubic Yards × Density (approx 1.4 tons/cu yd)- Gravel Density: Standard #57 crushed stone and dense grade base weigh approximately 1.35 to 1.45 tons per cubic yard.
- Compaction Factor: Gravel compacts down by 10% to 15% when tamped or rolled with a vibratory plate.
- Weight Conversion: 1 short ton = 2,000 lbs.
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Scenario: A gravel driveway 60 ft long, 10 ft wide, and 4 inches deep with a 10% waste buffer
Calculation Steps:
- Cubic Feet = 60 × 10 × (4 / 12) = 200 cu ft
- Cubic Yards = 200 / 27 = 7.41 cu yd
- Total with 10% Compaction = 7.41 × 1.10 = 8.15 cu yd
- Tons Needed = 8.15 cu yd × 1.4 tons/cu yd = 11.41 tons
- Material Cost = 11.41 tons × $42.00 = $479.22
- Total with Delivery = $479.22 + $75.00 = $554.22
Result: The driveway requires 8.15 cubic yards (11.41 tons) of gravel. Total estimated cost with dump truck delivery is $554.
How to Use This Calculator
- 1Enter the length and width of the gravel area in feet, and depth in inches.
- 2Adjust gravel density if using lightweight pea gravel (1.3) or heavy dense-grade road base (1.5).
Assumptions & Limitations
- Estimates are based on standard national averages and current prevailing construction materials and contractor rates.
- Actual trade bids may fluctuate according to local building code requirements, permit fees, and site topography.
- Always obtain multiple written bids from licensed, bonded, and insured contractors before commencing work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
A new driveway typically requires a total depth of 8 to 12 inches: 4–6 inches of coarse base stone (#3 or #4), topped with 3–4 inches of dense grade aggregate, and 2 inches of finish gravel (#57 stone).
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