Pea gravel calculator
Enter the length, width, and depth of the area you are covering. This tool estimates tons of pea gravel, a smooth rounded stone often used for paths and drainage, and includes a 10 percent waste allowance.
Your dimensions
Tons needed
0.9
Estimated cost: $35 to $57
Prices are typical ranges as of June 2026. Your local price will vary.
Assumptions
- •Uses a typical loose bulk density of 96 lb per cubic foot for washed pea gravel.
- •Estimates loose material as delivered.
- •Price range is a typical bulk yard/quarry range and excludes delivery fees.
Questions this calculator answers
How many tons of pea gravel do I need for 100 square feet at 3 inches deep?
1.2 tons. That is 100 square feet times 3 inches of depth, or 25 cubic feet, divided by 27 to get 0.926 cubic yards, times about 1.3 tons per cubic yard for pea gravel at its typical density of 96 pounds per cubic foot.
How deep should pea gravel be for a path?
2 to 3 inches is typical for a walking path or ground cover bed. A drainage layer under pavers is often shallower, around 1 inch.
Does pea gravel need a base layer underneath it?
For a path or patio, a layer of crushed stone or compacted gravel underneath helps drainage and stops the pea gravel from sinking into soil over time. This calculator estimates the pea gravel layer only.
Why is pea gravel lighter than crushed stone per cubic foot?
Pea gravel is rounded and smooth, so the individual stones pack together less tightly than angular crushed stone, leaving more air space per cubic foot. That gives pea gravel a lower typical density, about 96 pounds per cubic foot versus 105 for crushed stone.
Should I add extra for a border or edging?
This calculator estimates only the gravel that fills the area you enter. Edging, fabric, or a paver border are priced and ordered separately.