Gravel Yardage Calculator

Whether you’re laying a new driveway, filling a patio base, or tackling a landscaping project, estimating how much gravel you need is crucial. Over-ordering leads to wasted material and cost, while under-ordering means delays and frustrating return trips. That’s where the Gravel Yardage Calculator on our website comes in — a simple, powerful tool that helps you calculate exactly how many cubic yards of gravel you’ll need based on your project dimensions.

This tool is designed for homeowners, landscapers, and contractors alike — no math required. Just input your project area dimensions, and our calculator does the rest!

🚧 What Is the Gravel Yardage Calculator?

The Gravel Yardage Calculator is a web-based tool that allows you to calculate the volume of gravel needed for a given area. The result is expressed in cubic yards, the standard unit for ordering and delivering bulk gravel.

The formula it uses:

Cubic Yards = (Length in feet × Width in feet × Depth in inches) ÷ 324

This formula accounts for the conversion from inches to feet and helps ensure you get a precise gravel estimate for your project area.

🛠 How to Use the Calculator: Step-by-Step Guide

Using the gravel calculator is quick and easy. Here’s how:

  1. Enter the Length (feet):
    Measure the length of your area and enter it into the “Length” field.
  2. Enter the Width (feet):
    Measure the width of your area and input that value into the “Width” field.
  3. Enter the Depth (inches):
    Determine how deep you want the gravel layer to be. This is typically between 2 to 6 inches depending on your project.
  4. Click “Calculate”:
    Hit the button and the calculator will instantly show you how many cubic yards of gravel you need.
  5. Review the Result:
    You’ll see the total gravel yardage and a breakdown of your project dimensions.
  6. Click “Reset” to Start Over:
    Planning another section or need to change the depth? Just hit reset and enter new numbers.

🧱 Practical Example: Gravel for a Driveway

Let’s say you’re installing a new gravel driveway.

  • Length: 40 feet
  • Width: 10 feet
  • Depth: 4 inches

Result:

Required Gravel: 4.94 cubic yards
Details: Area: 40 ft x 10 ft, Depth: 4 inches

With this estimate, you now know to order 5 cubic yards (rounding up slightly for compaction and delivery buffer).

📌 Why This Calculator Is Helpful

Here’s why thousands of users trust this tool:

  • ✅ Saves Time: Instant calculation means less planning hassle.
  • ✅ Reduces Waste: Order the right amount, not too much or too little.
  • ✅ Avoids Costly Mistakes: Precision matters when gravel is sold by the cubic yard.
  • ✅ User-Friendly: No math, no guesswork, just answers.
  • ✅ Mobile Friendly: Works on phones and tablets for on-site estimates.

🧠 Bonus Tips for Gravel Projects

  • Always round up by 5–10% to account for compaction and uneven surfaces.
  • Gravel settles over time — deeper layers last longer and resist shifting.
  • Compacting gravel requires an additional inch or two depending on your equipment.
  • Use a measuring tape and a level to get accurate dimensions before inputting them.

📚 17 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a cubic yard?
A cubic yard is a volume measurement equal to 27 cubic feet (3ft x 3ft x 3ft). Gravel is typically sold by this unit.

2. Why is the number 324 used in the formula?
324 is the result of converting cubic inches to cubic yards: (12 inches per foot × 12 inches per foot × 1/12 to convert depth from inches to feet).

3. What is the standard gravel depth for driveways?
Typically, 4–6 inches is standard for driveways, especially if the gravel is the only base layer.

4. Can I use this calculator for decorative gravel?
Yes. Whether it’s for driveways, patios, or landscaping, the formula works the same.

5. Do I need to account for gravel compaction?
Yes, gravel settles. It’s smart to order 5–10% more than calculated to allow for this.

6. Is gravel measured by weight or volume?
Gravel is sold by volume (cubic yard), but its weight depends on the type (generally 2,400–2,900 lbs/yard).

7. Can I use this for other materials like sand or mulch?
Absolutely. As long as the material is measured in cubic yards, the calculation works.

8. What if my project area isn’t square or rectangular?
Break it into sections, calculate each area separately, and then add them together.

9. Can I enter decimals for measurements?
Yes, most calculators accept decimals, so you can input values like 12.5 feet for accuracy.

10. How many wheelbarrows in a cubic yard?
A typical wheelbarrow holds about 3 cubic feet. So, 1 cubic yard = 9 wheelbarrow loads.

11. How deep should gravel be for a garden path?
Generally, 2–3 inches is sufficient for walking paths.

12. Can this calculator help with pea gravel or crushed stone?
Yes. Pea gravel, crushed stone, river rock — the volume calculation remains the same.

13. Is this calculator suitable for large commercial projects?
Yes, but for massive areas, always confirm with your supplier for bulk delivery specs.

14. What’s the best type of gravel for a driveway?
Crushed stone #57 or crusher run gravel is commonly used for driveways due to stability.

15. How much does 1 cubic yard of gravel weigh?
On average, 2,400 to 2,900 pounds depending on the moisture and rock type.

16. Should I include a buffer when ordering gravel?
Yes. Round up to the next half or full yard to ensure complete coverage.

17. Can I install gravel myself or should I hire a professional?
Small projects can be DIY, but for driveways or large patios, hiring pros is wise for grading and compacting.

🧱 Common Gravel Use Cases

  • Driveways & Parking Areas
  • Garden Paths & Walkways
  • Patio Bases
  • Drainage Solutions
  • Playground Surfacing
  • Fire Pit Surrounds
  • French Drains
  • Erosion Control
  • Landscaping Borders

Each use may require different depths, but this calculator gives you the volume needed regardless of the project type.

✅ Start Your Gravel Project with Confidence

Whether you’re a seasoned landscaper or a weekend warrior, our Gravel Yardage Calculator takes the guesswork out of material estimation. Know how much gravel to order before your truck shows up — and avoid wasting time, money, and energy.

Try the calculator now and make your next gravel project smooth and stress-free!