Gravel Cubic Yard Calculator
When planning a landscaping, driveway, or construction project, knowing how much gravel you’ll need is crucial. Ordering too little can delay your work, while ordering too much wastes money and storage space. That’s where our Gravel Yardage Calculator comes in.
This simple yet powerful tool allows you to instantly calculate the amount of gravel (in cubic yards) required based on the area you plan to cover and your desired depth. Whether you’re laying a new path, filling a patio base, or grading your backyard, this calculator saves time, money, and guesswork.
How the Gravel Yardage Calculator Works
The calculator uses a straightforward formula based on the dimensions of the project:
Cubic Yards = (Length × Width × Depth) ÷ 27
- Length and Width are entered in feet.
- Depth is entered in inches.
- The result is the volume of gravel needed in cubic yards, the standard unit used for ordering bulk gravel.
How to Use the Gravel Calculator: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s how you can get a quick and accurate estimate:
✅ Step 1: Enter the Length
Measure the length of your project area in feet and input it in the “Length” field.
✅ Step 2: Enter the Width
Measure the width of the area in feet and input it in the “Width” field.
✅ Step 3: Enter the Depth
Input the depth in inches. For example, a standard gravel driveway typically uses 4 inches of depth.
✅ Step 4: Click “Calculate”
Press the “Calculate” button. The calculator instantly processes your inputs and shows you how many cubic yards of gravel are needed.
✅ Step 5: Review Results
You’ll see two things:
- Cubic Yards Needed
- Details of the Input Area (Length × Width, Depth)
You can also click Reset to clear your inputs and try a new calculation.
Example: How Much Gravel Do You Need for a 20×10 Foot Driveway?
Let’s walk through a real example:
- Length: 20 feet
- Width: 10 feet
- Depth: 4 inches
Step-by-Step Calculation:
- Convert 4 inches to feet → 4 ÷ 12 = 0.33 feet
- Multiply: 20 × 10 × 0.33 = 66 cubic feet
- Convert to cubic yards: 66 ÷ 27 ≈ 2.44 cubic yards
Result: You will need approximately 2.44 cubic yards of gravel.
If you want to round up for safety or compaction, you might order 2.5 to 3 cubic yards.
Why Use a Gravel Calculator?
Here are some benefits of using a gravel yardage calculator before purchasing:
- ✅ Prevents Shortages or Overstocking
Avoid paying for extra trips to the supply yard or having leftover material sitting unused. - ✅ Saves Time
Fast calculations without needing complex math or manual conversions. - ✅ Project Planning
Accurately estimate costs and schedule deliveries more effectively. - ✅ Versatile
Use for any surface: patios, walkways, gardens, driveways, or even construction fill.
Ideal Use Cases
Wondering what projects this calculator is good for? Here are a few:
- Driveways and walkways
- Gravel patios or paths
- French drains or trench bedding
- Underlayment for pavers
- Garden and landscape mulching
- Playgrounds or base material for sheds
15+ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does 1 cubic yard of gravel cover?
It depends on depth. At 2 inches deep, 1 cubic yard covers about 160 square feet. At 4 inches, it covers about 80 square feet.
2. How many wheelbarrows are in a cubic yard of gravel?
One cubic yard equals about 14 full wheelbarrows (standard 6 cu ft size).
3. What’s the standard gravel depth for a driveway?
Usually 4–6 inches. Heavier vehicles may require 6+ inches.
4. What types of gravel can I use for driveways or patios?
Crushed stone, pea gravel, decomposed granite, or road base gravel are common choices.
5. How accurate is this calculator?
It’s accurate to within a few percent if you measure the area properly. Always round up slightly for settling or uneven surfaces.
6. Can I use this for circular or irregular areas?
Yes, just approximate the average length and width or divide the area into rectangles and calculate each separately.
7. Is depth in inches or feet?
Input depth in inches. The calculator converts it automatically.
8. Can I use it for sand, mulch, or soil?
Yes! The volume calculation is the same. Just note the weight and compaction properties differ.
9. How do I convert square feet to cubic yards?
Multiply square feet × depth in feet, then divide by 27.
10. Why divide by 27 in the formula?
Because there are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard (3ft × 3ft × 3ft).
11. What if I want to fill multiple areas?
Calculate each area individually and sum the cubic yards needed.
12. Should I order extra gravel just in case?
Yes, typically add 5–10% extra for settling, spillage, or grading adjustments.
13. How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
Gravel weighs roughly 2,400 to 3,000 lbs per cubic yard, depending on type and moisture.
14. How many tons is one cubic yard of gravel?
One cubic yard is approximately 1.2 to 1.5 tons, depending on gravel type.
15. What’s the best way to transport gravel?
Use a pickup truck for small amounts or schedule a bulk delivery from a landscaping supplier for large projects.
16. Can I use the calculator on mobile?
Yes, it’s mobile-friendly and works in any modern browser.
17. Do I need a permit for gravel driveway installation?
Possibly. Check with your local zoning or building department.
18. Is gravel good for drainage?
Yes, gravel allows water to drain efficiently, making it ideal for foundations, French drains, and garden beds.
19. Can gravel be reused?
Yes, as long as it’s clean and free of debris, you can reuse gravel in new areas.
20. What’s the difference between gravel and crushed stone?
Gravel is naturally rounded and smooth; crushed stone is angular and compactable, often better for driveways.
Final Thoughts
Gravel projects are incredibly common, but mistakes in estimating volume can lead to overspending or work delays. Our Gravel Yardage Calculator eliminates guesswork and helps you make informed decisions. It’s ideal for homeowners, contractors, landscapers, and DIYers alike.
Use the calculator before you order and take control of your project budget and materials!