Gravel Calculator

The calculator starts with the physical volume of the area: length × width × depth. Because depth is commonly measured in inches in U.S. landscape and construction work, the calculator divides depth by 12 before multiplying. The resulting cubic feet are converted to cubic yards by dividing by 27.

After the base volume is known, the selected waste allowance is added. The default is 10%, which is a planning buffer rather than a fixed requirement. The calculator then converts cubic yards to estimated tons using the editable bulk density.

The tonnage result is an estimate for ordering. Bulk aggregate is sold by weight in many U.S. markets, while project dimensions are measured by volume, so density is the bridge between the two. Always use your supplier's stated material weight when they provide one.

There is no single exact weight for every material sold as gravel. Rounded river gravel, crushed gravel, pea gravel, and dense graded aggregate can all weigh differently per cubic yard. Moisture also matters because wet material carries additional water weight.

CountMaterials uses 2,800 lb per cubic yard as a practical default for general gravel planning. If your supplier quotes a different bulk density, replace the default before using the tonnage or cost result for an order.

For jobs where final grade matters, measure the actual excavated or filled area rather than relying only on nominal dimensions. A driveway or path that varies in width or depth should be split into sections and calculated separately.

The result includes estimated material volume, an adjustable waste allowance, estimated tons, and a simple material-cost figure based on the price per ton you enter.

It does not include delivery fees, minimum-load charges, taxes, equipment rental, excavation, geotextile fabric, edging, compaction labor, or grading. It also does not determine whether a specific gravel type or depth is structurally suitable for your project.