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Gravel Calculator

Free gravel calculator estimates gravel volume in cubic meters and weight in tonnes for driveways, paths and gardens. Enter area, depth and material type.

Whether you are laying a driveway, a garden path or a patio base, the question is always the same: how much gravel do I order? Suppliers price in cubic meters, tonnes or truckloads depending on region, so it pays to know the volume and weight before calling. This calculator turns your area and depth into both figures so you can order confidently.

Choose the area shape, enter the dimensions and depth, then pick the material - common graded aggregates such as #57 and #67 crushed stone are listed with their typical densities. The calculator applies the material's compaction allowance so the order volume covers settlement, and also reports 50 lb bags and truck loads so you can order however your supplier sells.

m
m
cm
$
Example
Example: Driveway Gravel for a 5 x 3 m Area

Length: 5 m | Width: 3 m | Depth: 5 cm | Material: #57 crushed stone

Area = 5 x 3 = 15 m²
Volume = 15 x 0.05 = 0.75 m³
Order volume = 0.75 x 1.12 = 0.84 m³
Weight = 0.84 x 1,600 = 1.34 tonnes
50 lb bags = ceil(0.84 / 0.0142) = 60 bags
Truck loads = ceil(1.34 / 10) = 1 load

Key Insight: The 12% compaction allowance for angular crushed stone turns 0.75 m³ of loose volume into a 0.84 m³ order - order the compacted figure or the finished layer will settle thinner than designed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?

A cubic yard of crushed stone typically weighs about 1.5 tons (roughly 1,780 kg per m³), while pea gravel is closer to 1.4 tons and sand around 1.3-1.6 tons depending on moisture. The calculator uses typical densities; confirm the exact figure with your supplier since it changes the total weight.

Should I add extra for compaction?

Yes. Loose gravel settles and compacts by roughly 10-15%, so order about 10-15% more than the calculated volume for base layers. For surface dressing, the measured depth is usually sufficient.

How deep should my gravel layer be?

A typical garden path needs about 5 cm (2 in), a driveway base 10-15 cm (4-6 in), and a drainage layer can be deeper. The calculator takes your chosen depth directly; for multi-layer builds, add the layers separately.

Bulk densities and compaction rates vary by source, moisture and gradation, so treat the results as an estimate and confirm with your supplier. Angular crushed stone compacts about 10-15%, rounded pea gravel and river rock about 5-8%. A 50 lb bag holds about 0.0142 m³ (0.5 cu ft); truck capacity is 5-20 t depending on the vehicle. For layered construction (coarse base + fine surface), calculate each layer separately.

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