Gravel & Stone Calculator
How to Use the Gravel Calculator Enter your area length and width, select the application (which sets the recommended depth automatically), choose your stone type, and click Calculate. Add multiple areas using the Add Another Area button. The result shows cubic feet, cubic yards, tons, and an estimated cost for bulk delivery. Gravel Application Guide […]
How to Use the Gravel Calculator
Enter your area length and width, select the application (which sets the recommended depth automatically), choose your stone type, and click Calculate. Add multiple areas using the Add Another Area button. The result shows cubic feet, cubic yards, tons, and an estimated cost for bulk delivery.
When in doubt about depth, go slightly deeper rather than shallower — adding more gravel after the fact requires re-raking and re-compacting the entire surface. For driveways, a 4-inch compacted depth is the absolute minimum for vehicle traffic.
Gravel Application Guide
Driveways need a minimum of 4 inches of compacted gravel. For heavy vehicle traffic or areas with soft ground, a two-layer system works best: 3 inches of larger base aggregate (#2 crushed stone) compacted first, then 2 inches of pea gravel or #57 stone as the finishing surface. The total depth is 5 inches, but the two-layer system significantly improves stability. Garden paths and decorative beds typically use 2 inches, which provides adequate weed suppression and visual coverage without being excessively deep. French drains for drainage require 12 inches or more of drainage gravel (not fine material) surrounding the perforated pipe.
Gravel Types for Different Uses
Pea gravel — smooth, rounded, 3/8-inch stones — is attractive for garden paths and decorative areas but tends to shift underfoot and is not ideal for driveways as it provides no interlocking structure. Crushed stone (#57 angular stone) is the best choice for driveways because the angular edges lock together under compaction, creating a stable surface. Decomposed granite compacts into an almost solid surface — excellent for formal paths and around pools where bare feet are common. River rock and larger decorative stones work well as mulch alternatives in landscaping beds where drainage is important and a natural appearance is desired.
FAQs
How many tons of gravel do I need for a driveway?
A standard one-car driveway (10 × 50 ft = 500 sq ft) at 4 inches deep requires approximately 6.2 cubic yards of gravel. At 1.4 tons per cubic yard, that is approximately 8.7 tons. For a two-car driveway (20 × 50 ft = 1,000 sq ft) at 4 inches, you need approximately 12.3 cubic yards or 17.3 tons. Use the calculator above for exact quantities based on your specific dimensions.
Do I need edging around gravel?
Yes — edging is essential for any gravel area that borders lawn or garden beds. Without it, gravel migrates outward within 1–2 seasons due to foot traffic, rain, and frost heave. For paths, plastic or aluminium landscape edging (4–6 inches deep) is the most economical option. For driveways, concrete curbing or steel edging is more durable. Brick or natural stone edging adds visual appeal but requires proper installation to prevent shifting.