How Much Gravel Do I Need?
Quick Answer
Measure length x width x depth in feet, divide by 27 for cubic yards. One cubic yard weighs about 1.4 tons. Order 5-10% extra.
The Basic Formula
To calculate how much gravel you need, measure the length, width, and desired depth of your project area, then convert to cubic yards or tons.
Length (ft) x Width (ft) x Depth (ft) / 27 = Cubic Yards
Example Calculation
A 10x20-foot patio at 3 inches deep: 10 x 20 x 0.25 = 50 cubic feet / 27 = 1.85 cubic yards. One cubic yard of gravel weighs approximately 1.4 tons, so you'd need about 2.6 tons.
How Much Extra to Order
Always order 5-10% extra to account for compaction, uneven ground, and spreading losses. For driveways, you typically need three layers totaling 8-12 inches deep. For patios and walkways, 2-3 inches is standard.
Use our gravel calculator for precise estimates based on your specific project dimensions.
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