Gravel & Stone Calculator

How to Calculate Gravel

Gravel is sold by the ton or cubic yard. To estimate your needs, calculate the volume of the area, then multiply by the material's density.

Gravel Formula

Recommended Gravel Depths

• 2 inches: Decorative gravel over landscape fabric
• 3-4 inches: Walkways, garden paths
• 4-6 inches: Driveways (4" for light traffic, 6" for heavy)
• 6-8 inches: Parking areas, drainage beds
• 12+ inches: French drains, structural base

Gravel Weight by Type

Different stone types have different densities. A cubic yard of gravel typically weighs 1.2-1.7 tons depending on the material:

• Pea gravel: ~1.4 tons/cu yd
• Crushed stone (#57): ~1.35 tons/cu yd
• Crushed limestone: ~1.5 tons/cu yd
• River rock: ~1.4 tons/cu yd
• Decomposed granite: ~2.0 tons/cu yd

Delivery Tips

• Most quarries and landscape suppliers have a minimum delivery of 1-3 tons
• Delivery typically costs $50-150 depending on distance
• A standard dump truck holds 10-14 tons; a small dump truck holds 5-6 tons
• Order 10-15% extra for compaction and settling
• A landscape rake makes it much easier to spread and level gravel evenly
• Install landscape fabric under the gravel to prevent weed growth and keep stone from sinking into the soil