Gravel calculator
Enter the length, width, and depth of the area you are covering. This tool estimates tons of gravel for a driveway, base layer, or path, using a typical mixed road-base density and a 10 percent waste allowance.
Your dimensions
Tons needed
1.8
Estimated cost: $46 to $92
Prices are typical ranges as of June 2026. Your local price will vary.
Assumptions
- •Uses a typical loose bulk density of 100 lb per cubic foot for generic mixed/road-base gravel.
- •Estimates loose material as delivered, before compaction.
- •Price range is a typical bulk yard/quarry range and excludes delivery fees.
Questions this calculator answers
How much gravel do I need for a 10 by 10 foot area at 4 inches deep?
About 1.7 tons before waste, or 1.8 tons with the typical 10 percent waste allowance. That comes from 100 square feet times 4 inches of depth, which is 33.3 cubic feet, divided by 27 to get 1.23 cubic yards, times about 1.35 tons per cubic yard for mixed gravel at 100 pounds per cubic foot.
How deep should a gravel driveway base be?
4 to 6 inches is typical for a residential driveway base layer, sometimes more over soft soil. Deeper bases spread vehicle weight better but need more material.
Do I need to compact gravel after spreading it?
Yes, for a driveway or path base. Compaction settles the gravel and reduces future rutting; this calculator estimates loose material before compaction, since that is how it is sold and delivered.
Is gravel sold by the ton or by the cubic yard?
Most quarries and bulk yards sell gravel by the ton. This calculator converts your area and depth into cubic yards first, then into tons using a typical density, so you can order in whichever unit your supplier uses.
What is the difference between this calculator and the crushed stone or pea gravel calculators?
They use the same math with a different density. Crushed stone and pea gravel weigh slightly less or more per cubic foot than generic mixed gravel, so use the calculator that matches the material you are actually ordering.