Gravel Coverage Calculator
Calculate how much area will be covered by a specific amount of gravel for driveways and landscaping.
Gravel Coverage Calculator - Calculate Area Coverage for Landscape Projects
The gravel coverage calculator helps you determine how much area a specific amount of gravel will cover, or how much gravel you need to cover a desired area. Whether you're planning a driveway, pathways, or decorative garden beds, this calculator ensures accurate material estimation and efficient budgeting.
Gravel is one of the most versatile landscaping materials, suitable for driveways, pathways, French drains, and decorative mulching. Coverage depends on gravel size, desired depth, and material compaction. Our calculator accounts for these variables to provide accurate coverage estimates. For related projects, explore our crushed stone calculator and pea gravel calculator for alternative materials.
Different applications require different gravel depths: decorative ground cover needs 2-3 inches, pathways require 3-4 inches, while driveways need 4-6 inches of compacted base. Understanding depth requirements is crucial for accurate coverage calculations. The calculator also helps you plan materials for multi-layered projects where different stone types serve different purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much area will gravel cover?
Coverage depends on depth: at 3 inches deep, 1 cubic yard covers approximately 100-110 square feet. At 4 inches, coverage is about 80-85 square feet. The calculator automatically determines coverage based on your specified depth and material type.
What depth of gravel is recommended for different uses?
Decorative ground cover: 2-3 inches. Pathways and walkways: 3-4 inches. Driveway base: 4-6 inches (with top layer topping every 2 years). Use our calculator to determine coverage at your desired depth.
How does gravel compaction affect coverage?
Compaction reduces gravel volume as air pockets compress. Newly installed gravel covers more area than compacted gravel, but compacted gravel lasts longer and requires less maintenance. The calculator accounts for compaction factors in coverage estimates.
How often do I need to refresh gravel?
Driveway gravel typically needs refreshing every 2-3 years as it settles, compacts, and spreads. Decorative gravel may last 3-4 years depending on climate and traffic. Regular topping (2-4 inches annually) keeps coverage looking fresh and maintains proper depth.
Which gravel type provides the best coverage?
Angular crushed stone compacts and interlocks better, requiring less material and providing better coverage for driveways. Rounded river rock and pea gravel are excellent for decorative purposes but don't compact as well. The coverage calculator helps you compare material efficiency.