Gravel Stone Calculator
A versatile calculator for projects involving gravel stones.
Quick Answer
To calculate gravel, multiply length × width × depth in feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards, then multiply by about 1.4 for tons. A 12 × 12 ft area at 3 inches deep needs roughly 1.3 cubic yards (about 1.9 tons).
Gravel Stone Calculator Guide
Our Gravel Stone Calculator makes quick work of estimating gravel for driveways, walkways, landscaping beds, and drainage projects—just enter your dimensions and pick a material. Gravel is one of the most cost-effective and widely used materials for outdoor projects.
For specific applications, consider using our specialized calculators: the driveway calculator for road surfaces, the landscape calculator for garden projects, or the drainage calculator for water management systems.
How Many Tons in a Cubic Yard of Gravel?
Gravel weighs about 1.4 tons per cubic yard, so one cubic yard is roughly 1.4 tons (2,800 lb). Wet or dense gravel weighs a little more; loose, dry gravel a little less.
Gravel coverage and weight per cubic yard:
| Depth | Coverage per yd³ | 1 yd³ ≈ tons |
|---|---|---|
| 2" | ≈ 162 sq ft | 1.4 tons |
| 3" | ≈ 108 sq ft | 1.4 tons |
| 4" | ≈ 81 sq ft | 1.4 tons |
How Many Cubic Yards in a Ton of Gravel?
About 0.71 cubic yards (1 ÷ 1.4). A 10-ton load is roughly 7 cubic yards. Convert any figure with the cubic yards to tons calculator.
Spread and Firm Up Gravel Like a Pro
Loose gravel that's just tipped and left will rut and scatter — the finish comes from two simple steps. Rake it out to an even depth with a bow rake, using the flat edge to screed off the high spots for a clean, level surface. Then firm it down in lifts with a hand tamper so the stone settles into a stable layer instead of shifting underfoot or under tires. Ten minutes of leveling and tamping is the difference between a gravel surface that lasts and one that washes out.
Bow Rake
Levels gravel to an even depth and screeds off high spots for a clean finish.
Check Price on AmazonHand Tamper
Firms gravel in lifts so it settles into a stable surface that won't scatter.
Check Price on AmazonThe product links above are affiliate links — at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much gravel do I need for a 10x10 area?
For a 10x10 foot area at 3 inches deep, you need approximately 0.93 cubic yards or about 1.25 tons of gravel. At 4 inches deep, you'll need about 1.23 cubic yards or 1.65 tons.
What type of gravel is best for landscaping?
Pea gravel (3/8 inch) is popular for paths and decorative beds. River rock provides a natural look for gardens. Crushed gravel works well for functional areas. Choose based on appearance, drainage needs, and intended use.
How deep should gravel be for a walkway?
Walkways typically need 2-3 inches of gravel over a compacted base. For areas with heavier foot traffic, consider 3-4 inches. Install landscape fabric underneath to prevent weed growth.
Does gravel compact over time?
Yes, gravel compacts 10-20% after installation and use. Angular crushed gravel compacts more and creates a firmer surface. Account for this by adding 10-15% extra material when ordering.
How many tons of gravel in a dump truck?
A standard dump truck holds 10-14 cubic yards, which equals approximately 13-20 tons of gravel depending on the material type. Smaller trucks may hold 5-8 cubic yards (7-11 tons).