About The Gravel Calculator
Free gravel calculators and guides, with the method and numbers behind them explained.
What this site is
The Gravel Calculator is a free set of tools and guides for working out how much gravel a project needs. You enter the size of the area, the depth and the type of stone, and it returns the quantity in cubic yards, cubic feet, pounds, tons and bags, with an optional cost estimate. It is built for homeowners and small contractors planning driveways, paths, patios, garden beds and drainage.
The calculators run entirely in your browser. There is no account, no sign-up and nothing to download.
How the calculation works
- The area is calculated from the shape you choose: length × width for a rectangle, π × radius² for a circle, half of length × height for a triangle, and the outer rectangle minus the cut-out for an L-shape.
- Area is multiplied by depth, converted to cubic feet, to give the volume.
- The waste allowance you choose is added, to cover compaction, uneven ground and spillage.
- Volume is multiplied by the density of the selected material to get weight, then converted to tons (2,000 lb) and cubic yards (27 cubic feet).
Densities we use
These are typical bulk densities for loose, dry material. Real material varies by quarry, stone type, grading and moisture, so treat them as a starting point and use your supplier's figure when you have it. You can enter your own with the Custom density option.
| Material | lb per cubic foot | Tons per cubic yard |
|---|---|---|
| Pea gravel | 105 | 1.42 |
| Crushed stone | 110 | 1.49 |
| River rock | 100 | 1.35 |
| Limestone | 108 | 1.46 |
What we do not do
The results are estimates for planning and ordering. They are not a supplier quote, an engineering specification or a substitute for advice from a contractor who has seen your site. Depth recommendations on this site are common rules of thumb; soil, drainage, climate and use change what is right for your project.
Independence
We are not affiliated with any quarry, supplier, retailer or contractor, and we do not take payment to recommend particular products. Prices quoted in our guides are general ranges, and we say so wherever we use them.
Corrections
If you find an error in a calculation or a guide, please tell us at thegravelcalculator@gmail.com. We check every report and fix confirmed mistakes.
Published by The Gravel Calculator Team. Last updated 2026-10-06.