Crushed Gravel Calculator Find Your Exact Quantity
Our free crushed gravel calculator makes it easy to find out exactly how much material you need for your project.
Whether you're building a new driveway, a garden path, or a base for your patio, this tool will help you get the right amount of gravel. Avoid overspending or running out mid-project. Just enter your dimensions, and we'll do the math for you.
How to Use the Crushed Gravel Calculator
Using our calculator is simple. Follow these easy steps to get an accurate estimate for your gravel needs.
- Measure Your Area: First, measure the length and width of the area you want to cover with gravel. Use a tape measure for accuracy.
- Determine the Depth: Decide how deep you want your gravel to be. For a driveway, 4 to 6 inches is standard. For a walkway, 2 to 3 inches is usually enough.
- Enter Your Dimensions: Input the length, width, and depth into the calculator fields. You can use feet, inches, yards, or meters.
- Get Your Results: The calculator will instantly show you the total volume of crushed gravel you need in cubic yards or cubic meters. It will also estimate the weight in tons or tonnes.
This tool is designed to be your go-to gravel calculator. For other materials, you might find our pea gravel calculator or landscape rock calculator useful.
Understanding Crushed Gravel
Crushed gravel is a versatile and affordable material for many outdoor projects. It's made by breaking down larger rocks into smaller, angular pieces.
This type of gravel is different from smooth, rounded river rock or pea gravel. The sharp edges of crushed stone interlock, creating a stable and compact surface.
It comes in various sizes, each suited for different purposes. The size of the gravel affects its compaction and drainage properties.
Types of Crushed Gravel and Their Uses
Choosing the right type of crushed gravel is important for the longevity of your project. Here’s a look at common types and where they work best.
Crushed Stone #57
This is one of the most popular types of crushed gravel. The stones are about the size of a nickel or a dime, typically around 3/4 inch.
- Best for: Driveways, drainage systems, and as a base for concrete slabs.
- Why it works: Its size allows for good drainage while still compacting well to form a solid surface.
Crushed Stone #3
This type consists of larger stones, usually between 1 and 2 inches. It's used when you need a strong, stable base.
- Best for: A sub-base for driveways, construction entrances, or areas with soft soil.
- Why it works: The large stones create a very sturdy foundation that can handle heavy loads.
Crushed Stone #411
This is a mix of #57 stone and coarse rock dust. The mixture of stone sizes allows for excellent compaction.
- Best for: A top layer for driveways and parking areas, or as a base for pavers.
- Why it works: The fine dust fills the gaps between the larger stones, creating a very dense and stable surface.
For projects where weight is a primary concern, you might also want to consult a specialized gravel weight calculator.
How Much Crushed Gravel Do I Need?
Figuring out the right amount of gravel can feel tricky, but it's all about volume. Our crushed stone calculator does this for you, but it's helpful to understand the basic formula.
The calculation is: Length × Width × Depth = Volume
Make sure all your measurements are in the same unit before you multiply. For example, if you measure length and width in feet, convert your depth from inches to feet as well.
Converting Inches to Feet
To convert inches to feet, simply divide the number of inches by 12.
- 3 inches = 0.25 feet
- 4 inches = 0.33 feet
- 6 inches = 0.5 feet
Once you have the volume in cubic feet, you can convert it to cubic yards. There are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard. So, you would divide your total cubic feet by 27.
Gravel Coverage Calculator: How Much Area Will a Ton Cover?
Sometimes you know how much gravel you're getting for instance, a full truckload and you need to know how much area it will cover. This is where a gravel coverage calculator comes in handy.
The coverage depends on the depth you plan to lay the gravel. A standard ton of crushed gravel (2,000 pounds) will typically cover:
- 100 square feet at a depth of 2 inches
- 80 square feet at a depth of 3 inches
- 50 square feet at a depth of 4 inches
These are general estimates. The exact coverage can vary based on the specific type and density of the crushed gravel you choose. Always check with your supplier for precise numbers for their products.
How to Calculate the Cost of Crushed Gravel
Once you know how many tons of crushed gravel you need, you can calculate the total cost of your project.
The price of crushed gravel varies by location and type. On average, you can expect to pay between $30 and $50 per ton. Delivery fees can add an extra $50 to $150 per trip, depending on the distance from the quarry.
To get your total cost, use this simple formula:
(Price per ton × Number of tons) + Delivery fee = Total Cost
Always get quotes from a few different local suppliers to find the best price. Ask if they have a minimum order amount and what their delivery charges include.
Frequently Asked Question
What is a crushed gravel calculator?
A crushed gravel calculator is an online tool that helps you determine the amount of crushed gravel needed for a project. You enter the length, width, and depth of your area, and it calculates the volume and weight of the gravel required.
How many cubic yards are in a ton of crushed gravel?
On average, there are about 0.71 cubic yards in a ton of crushed gravel. This can vary slightly depending on the type of stone and how moist it is.
How do I calculate how much crushed gravel I need?
To calculate the amount of crushed gravel, multiply the length, width, and depth of the area (in the same units). This gives you the volume. Our crushed stone calculator does this math for you automatically.
How much does a ton of crushed gravel cover?
A ton of crushed gravel will typically cover about 100 square feet at a 2-inch depth. If you lay it at a 4-inch depth, it will cover about 50 square feet.
What is the difference between crushed gravel and pea gravel?
Crushed gravel has angular, sharp edges from being mechanically crushed. This helps it lock together for a stable surface. Pea gravel is small, smooth, and rounded, making it better for decorative uses like walkways and playgrounds.