Homeowner calculator
Gravel Calculator
Estimate gravel volume, tons, bags, and cost for paths, patios, fire pits, and drainage projects.
How this gravel calculator works
The calculator multiplies length × width × depth to estimate volume, converts cubic feet to cubic yards, and estimates weight using your selected gravel density.
Why gravel density matters
Pea gravel, river rock, crushed stone, and compacted base can weigh different amounts. Use your supplier's density for the most accurate estimate.
Related project planning tools
Planning a circular fire pit seating area? Use the Fire Pit Gravel Calculator for round gravel layouts.
Building a patio? The Paver Calculator estimates pavers, base gravel, and leveling sand.
Working near a wall? The Retaining Wall Calculator can estimate blocks, caps, and drainage gravel.
Planning a fence line with gravel drainage or edging? The Fence Cost Calculator can estimate posts, panels, gates, and materials.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate how much gravel I need?
Measure the length and width of the area, choose a depth, and calculate volume. This calculator converts that volume into cubic feet, cubic yards, estimated weight, tons, bags, and cost.
How deep should gravel be for landscaping?
Decorative gravel areas are often around 2 inches deep. Walkways, drainage areas, and base layers may need more depth depending on the project and site conditions.
How many cubic feet are in a cubic yard of gravel?
There are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard. Gravel suppliers often sell bulk gravel by the cubic yard or by the ton.
How many tons of gravel do I need?
Tons depend on volume and material density. This calculator estimates tons by multiplying cubic feet by the selected pounds-per-cubic-foot density, then dividing by 2,000.
What gravel density should I use?
If your supplier provides a density, use that number. For rough planning, loose landscape gravel is often estimated around 95 to 105 pounds per cubic foot, but materials vary.
Is pea gravel lighter than crushed stone?
It can be, depending on stone type, size, moisture, and compaction. Crushed stone, river rock, pea gravel, and base gravel can all have different weights.
Should I add overage when ordering gravel?
Yes. A 5–10% overage helps account for uneven ground, settling, compaction, spillage, and measuring differences.
Should I use landscape fabric under gravel?
Landscape fabric can help reduce weeds and keep gravel from mixing into soil, but drainage, slope, and project type matter.
How much does a 50 lb bag of gravel cover?
Coverage depends on depth. A 50 lb bag covers much more area at 1 inch deep than at 3 inches deep. Use the bag weight and density settings to estimate bag count.
Is bulk gravel cheaper than bagged gravel?
Bulk gravel is often more cost-effective for larger projects. Bagged gravel may be easier for small projects, limited storage, or areas without delivery access.
How much does gravel weigh?
A common planning estimate is about 95–105 pounds per cubic foot, but supplier data is more reliable.
Should I order extra gravel?
A 5–10% buffer helps cover uneven ground, settling, and measuring differences.