Gravel Calculator (Cubic Yards)
By Vinod Kondeti · Updated
Gravel uses the same volume math as mulch, but it is laid deeper and often ordered by weight. This calculator gives the volume in cubic yards. Ask your supplier for the weight per yard of the exact stone you are buying, because it varies by material.
How do I measure for a gravel project?
- Gravel compacts, so ask the supplier how much extra to order for the stone you choose.
- Driveway bases are usually laid in layers. Calculate each layer separately.
- Convert yards to tons only with your supplier's figure for that material.
How is the gravel amount calculated?
- Cubic feet = length × width × (depth in inches ÷ 12)
- Cubic yards = ft³ ÷ 27
- Bags = ft³ ÷ bag size (ft³), rounded up
- One bag covers (bag ft³ × 12) ÷ depth (in) square feet; 1 yd³ covers 324 ÷ depth (in) ft²
- Extra for waste/settling: volume × (1 + % ÷ 100)
- Round bed: π × (d ÷ 2)²; tree ring: π ÷ 4 × (outer² − inner²)
- Bulk cost = yd³ × $/yd³ + delivery; bag cost = bags × $/bag
Gravel calculator questions
How much gravel for a 40 × 10 ft driveway at 4 in?
40 × 10 × (4 ÷ 12) = 133.3 ft³ = 4.94 yd³.
Why no tons?
Weight per yard depends on the stone and its moisture, and we have not verified a single figure, so ask your supplier.
Sources
Estimates only. Use the coverage or bag size printed on your product. Read the mulch guide for worked examples.
More mulch calculators
- Mulch calculator (main)
- Mulch bags calculator
- Cubic yards calculator
- Depth & coverage calculator
- Tree ring calculator
- Round bed calculator
- Multiple beds calculator
- Topsoil calculator