🪨 Gravel Calculator 2026 - Free Tons & Cubic Yards Estimator
Calculate exact gravel quantities for any project in seconds. Get tons, cubic yards, delivery trucks needed, and complete cost estimates - all free. Perfect for driveways, walkways, drainage, landscaping, and decorative projects. Supports all gravel types: pea gravel, river rock, crushed gravel, drainage rock. Used by 32,000+ contractors, landscapers, and homeowners monthly.
⚡ Key Gravel Facts 2026
Gravel Weight
Per cubic yard compacted (1.4 tons or 104 lbs per cubic foot)
Average Cost
2026 delivered pricing (free delivery for 5+ tons within 20 miles)
Typical Depth
Walkways and landscaping (4-6 inches for driveways)
Delivery Truck
Standard dump truck capacity per load
👥 Who Can Use This Gravel Calculator?
Homeowners
Calculate gravel for DIY walkways, driveways, drainage projects, patio bases, and decorative landscaping. Get accurate tonnage to avoid over-ordering or running short mid-project.
Landscapers
Estimate decorative gravel, pea gravel, and river rock for landscape projects. Plan material quantities for pathways, dry creek beds, rock gardens, and erosion control.
Contractors
Estimate gravel for driveways, parking lots, drainage systems, and site preparation. Create professional material quotes for residential and commercial hardscape installations.
DIY Enthusiasts
Plan gravel projects with confidence. Calculate exact quantities for garden paths, fire pit areas, shed bases, dog runs, and backyard makeovers. Save money by ordering correctly.
🧮 Calculate Your Gravel Project Now
Select your project shape, enter dimensions and gravel type, get instant results with complete material quantities and cost breakdown.
How the Gravel Calculator Works
Enter Dimensions
Choose rectangle, circle, or irregular area. Enter dimensions in feet and depth in inches for your specific project type and requirements.
Select Gravel Type
Choose from pea gravel (smooth walkways), crushed gravel (driveways), river rock (decorative), drainage rock (French drains), or 1/2" gravel based on your project.
Set Options
Add compaction factor (10% standard), include landscape fabric if needed, choose delivery method, and select your region for accurate pricing.
Get Results
Instant calculation shows tons, cubic yards, delivery trucks, fabric needed, total cost, and project-specific recommendations for proper installation.
Essential Gravel Calculator Guide 2026
Gravel is one of the most versatile landscaping and construction materials, suitable for everything from elegant pathways to functional driveways. Proper gravel calculation prevents project delays and budget overruns caused by under-ordering or waste from over-ordering. This calculator uses industry-standard formulas accounting for gravel density, compaction factors, and real-world installation conditions to provide accurate tonnage and cubic yard estimates for all gravel types and project applications.
Understanding Gravel Measurements and Weight
Gravel is typically sold by weight (tons) or volume (cubic yards) in the USA. One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet and weighs approximately 2,600-3,000 pounds (1.3-1.5 tons) depending on gravel type, size, and moisture content. Loose gravel weighs less per cubic yard than compacted gravel due to air space between stones. For calculation purposes, use 1.4 tons per cubic yard as a reliable average across common gravel types. Wet gravel weighs 10-15% more than dry gravel.
Types of Gravel and Their Applications
Gravel selection dramatically impacts project appearance and performance. Pea gravel features smooth, rounded 3/8 inch stones comfortable for walking barefoot - ideal for walkways, playgrounds, and decorative landscaping but unsuitable for driveways as it shifts under vehicle weight. Crushed gravel offers angular 3/4 inch stones with sharp edges that interlock and compact tightly, perfect for driveways and parking areas. River rock provides larger 1-2 inch smooth stones excellent for decorative landscaping, erosion control, and dry creek beds. Drainage rock consists of clean 3/4 inch gravel with no fines, allowing water to flow freely through French drains and foundation drainage systems.
| Gravel Type | Size | Best Uses | Cost per Ton |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel | 3/8" smooth | Walkways, playgrounds, decorative landscaping | $35-50 |
| Crushed Gravel | 3/4" angular | Driveways, parking areas, compactable surfaces | $30-40 |
| River Rock | 1-2" smooth | Decorative landscaping, erosion control, dry creek beds | $40-60 |
| Drainage Rock | 3/4" clean | French drains, foundation drainage, septic systems | $35-45 |
| 1/2" Gravel | 1/2" mixed | Pathways, between pavers, general landscaping | $32-42 |
💡 Pro Tip: Bulk Delivery Economics
Gravel is most economical when delivered in bulk by the ton. Most suppliers offer free delivery for 5+ tons within 20 miles, with delivery fees of $50-100 for smaller orders or longer distances. For a typical 10×20 ft walkway at 3 inches deep, you need approximately 2.5 tons - one small delivery at $125-175 total delivered. Pickup at supplier saves $5-10 per ton but requires appropriate truck and multiple trips for larger projects. Factor in fuel, time, and vehicle wear when comparing delivery versus pickup.
Proper Depth Requirements by Project Type
Project depth determines both material quantity and long-term performance. Walkways and pathways require 2-3 inches of pea gravel or small crushed gravel over landscape fabric for comfortable walking surface and weed suppression. Driveways need 4-6 inches of compacted angular crushed gravel - 4 inches minimum for light residential use, 6 inches for standard traffic, never use smooth pea gravel or river rock for driveways as they shift under vehicle weight. Decorative landscaping beds use 2-4 inches of pea gravel, river rock, or decorative stone for appearance and weed control. French drains require 3-4 inches of clean drainage rock around perforated pipe with no fines that would clog drainage.
⚠️ Landscape Fabric is Essential for Most Gravel Projects
Landscape fabric (geotextile) installed between soil and gravel prevents three major problems: gravel sinking into soft soil, soil migration up through gravel causing muddy mess, and weed growth through stones. Use non-woven geotextile for walkways and driveways (allows water drainage while providing separation). Install on compacted subgrade, overlap seams 12 inches, and secure with landscape staples every 3-4 feet. Add minimum 2-3 inches of gravel over fabric - thinner layers allow fabric to show through and reduce weed suppression effectiveness.
Compaction and Settling Factors
Gravel settles 5-15% over time depending on type and traffic. Smooth pea gravel and river rock settle less because rounded stones don't interlock, while angular crushed gravel compacts more as sharp edges lock together. Add 10% extra material for standard settling on walkways and landscaping. For driveways, use 15% compaction factor and mechanically compact crushed gravel in 2-3 inch lifts with plate compactor (rentals $40-60/day). Never compact pea gravel or river rock - they're meant to remain loose. Proper compaction of driveways prevents rutting and extends life to 10-15 years.
Real Gravel Project Examples
🚶 Pea Gravel Walkway
Size: 3 ft × 25 ft × 3 inches deep
Area: 75 square feet
Volume: 0.69 cubic yards
Gravel Type: Pea gravel (3/8" smooth)
Total: 0.9 tons
Cost: $40-60 delivered
Small walkway using smooth pea gravel comfortable for barefoot walking. Install landscape fabric first to prevent weeds. Spread 3 inches of pea gravel (deeper is harder to walk through). Edge with treated timbers, metal edging, or stone to contain gravel. Pea gravel shifts so needs good edging. Rake smooth and level. Refresh with 0.25-0.5 tons annually as gravel migrates into soil. Perfect for garden paths, between stepping stones, around trees.
🚗 Crushed Gravel Driveway
Size: 12 ft × 40 ft × 6 inches deep
Area: 480 square feet
Volume: 8.9 cubic yards
Gravel Type: Crushed gravel (3/4" angular)
Total: 12.5 tons
Cost: $375-625 delivered
Standard single-car driveway using angular crushed gravel that compacts tight. Install geotextile fabric on compacted subgrade. Spread 4 inches, compact with plate compactor or roller, add final 2 inches and compact again. Use angular crushed gravel only - never pea gravel or river rock which shift under vehicles. Crown center 2-3 inches higher than edges for water drainage. Install edge restraints to prevent spreading. Regrade annually, add 0.5-1 ton top dressing every 2-3 years. With proper maintenance, lasts 10-15 years.
🌊 River Rock Landscaping
Size: 8 ft × 15 ft × 4 inches deep
Area: 120 square feet
Volume: 1.48 cubic yards
Gravel Type: River rock (1-2" smooth)
Total: 2.1 tons
Cost: $85-125 delivered
Decorative landscaping bed using large smooth river rock for low-maintenance beauty. Install landscape fabric to prevent weeds - essential for decorative rock. Spread 3-4 inches of river rock (thinner looks sparse, deeper is difficult to work in). Works well around shrubs, trees, in planters, or as dry creek bed. River rock doesn't need edging as much as pea gravel since larger stones don't migrate as easily. Rinse occasionally with hose to remove dust and restore color. Lasts indefinitely with minimal maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate how much gravel I need?
To calculate gravel needed: (1) Measure length and width in feet, (2) Determine depth in inches (3-4 inches for walkways, 4-6 inches for driveways), (3) Calculate volume: length × width × depth (in feet) = cubic feet, (4) Convert to cubic yards: cubic feet ÷ 27, (5) Convert to tons: cubic yards × 1.4 (gravel weighs ~2,800 lbs/yard = 1.4 tons). For a 10 ft × 20 ft walkway at 3 inches: 10 × 20 × 0.25 = 50 cubic feet ÷ 27 = 1.85 yards × 1.4 = 2.6 tons. Add 5-10% for settling and waste.
How much does gravel cost per ton in 2026?
In 2026, gravel costs $30-60 per ton delivered, depending on type and location. Crushed gravel (3/4 inch): $30-40/ton, Pea gravel (3/8 inch): $35-50/ton, River rock (1-2 inch): $40-60/ton, Drainage rock (3/4 inch): $35-45/ton, Decorative gravel: $50-80/ton. Prices include delivery within 20 miles for 5+ tons. Pickup at quarry saves $5-10/ton. Regional variations: Midwest baseline, Northeast +20%, South -10%, West Coast +25%. Minimum order typically 1-3 tons with delivery fee $50-100.
How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
One cubic yard of gravel weighs approximately 2,600-3,000 pounds (1.3-1.5 tons) depending on gravel type and moisture. Loose gravel: 2,600 lbs/yard, Compacted gravel: 2,800-3,000 lbs/yard. Specific weights: Pea gravel (2,600 lbs/yard), Crushed gravel 3/4 inch (2,750 lbs/yard), River rock (2,800 lbs/yard), Drainage rock (2,700 lbs/yard). For calculations, use 1.4 tons per cubic yard as standard average. Weight varies with moisture - wet gravel weighs 10-15% more than dry gravel.
What size gravel do I need for my project?
Gravel size depends on project: Pea gravel (3/8 inch) for walkways, playgrounds, and decorative landscaping, 3/4 inch crushed gravel for driveways and compactable surfaces, 1-2 inch river rock for decorative landscaping and erosion control, Drainage rock (3/4 inch clean) for French drains and drainage systems, 1/2 inch gravel for pathways and between pavers. Driveway: 4-6 inches compacted crushed gravel. Walkway: 2-3 inches pea gravel over fabric. Drainage: 3-4 inches clean drainage rock. Landscaping: 2-4 inches decorative river rock or pea gravel.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?
Gravel driveway should be 4-6 inches deep minimum, compacted in 2-3 inch lifts. Proper depth: Residential light use: 4 inches compacted, Standard residential: 6 inches (4 inches base + 2 inches top), Heavy use/trucks: 8-10 inches in layers. Install over compacted subgrade with geotextile fabric to prevent sinking. Use angular crushed gravel (not smooth river rock) for driveways - it compacts better and doesn't shift. Compact each 2-3 inch lift to 95% density with plate compactor. Deeper base prevents rutting and extends driveway life to 10-15 years.
What is the difference between pea gravel and crushed gravel?
Pea gravel is smooth, rounded 3/8 inch stones (like peas), while crushed gravel is angular, jagged stones in various sizes. Pea gravel: naturally rounded by water erosion, smooth comfortable surface, does not compact tight, shifts under weight, used for walkways, playgrounds, decorative landscaping. Crushed gravel: mechanically crushed angular rocks, sharp edges lock together, compacts very well, stable under traffic, used for driveways, parking areas, structural bases. Never use pea gravel for driveways - it rolls and shifts. Use crushed gravel for structural applications. Both weigh ~2,700 lbs per cubic yard.
Do I need landscape fabric under gravel?
Yes, landscape fabric (geotextile) is highly recommended under gravel for most applications. Benefits: prevents gravel from sinking into soft soil, stops weeds from growing through, improves load distribution, extends project life by 50-100%. Use for: driveways, walkways, patios, parking areas, decorative landscaping. Fabric type: non-woven geotextile for drainage applications, woven geotextile for heavy vehicle loads. Installation: place on compacted subgrade, overlap seams 12 inches, add 2-3 inches gravel minimum over fabric. Without fabric, gravel gradually sinks into soil and weeds grow through.
How much gravel fits in a pickup truck?
A standard half-ton pickup truck can safely carry 0.5-1 cubic yard (0.7-1.4 tons) of gravel without exceeding payload capacity. Three-quarter ton trucks: 1-1.5 yards. One-ton trucks: 1.5-2 yards. Gravel is extremely heavy at 2,800 lbs per yard. Most half-ton trucks have 1,500-2,000 lb payload - one full yard exceeds this. Overloading damages suspension, tires, brakes and is dangerous. For projects over 1 yard, rent dump trailer (3-5 yard capacity) or arrange bulk delivery (10-15 tons per truck). Bulk delivery is more economical for 5+ yards and eliminates transport risk.
Data Sources and Accuracy
- Gravel specifications: ASTM D2940 (Graded Aggregate Material), AASHTO M43 (Sizes of Aggregate)
- Material density: USGS Mineral Resources, engineering references
- Pricing data: HomeAdvisor, Angi, national supplier surveys (2026)
- Compaction standards: ASTM D1557 (Proctor compaction test)
- Installation guidelines: Industry best practices, landscaping associations
Last Updated: January 2026
Disclaimer: All calculations are estimates for planning purposes only. Actual quantities may vary based on site conditions, gravel type, compaction methods, and project specifics. Always verify calculations with your supplier and order 5-10% extra for settling and waste. Gravel weights assume dry material - wet gravel weighs 10-15% more. Consult with local contractors and building codes for structural applications.
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