Gravel Calculator

Estimate one rectangular gravel layer

Enter length and width in feet, planned depth in inches, waste allowance, and the supplier's bulk density. The result shows base volume, adjusted cubic yards, and estimated pounds and US short tons.

Volume comes before weight

Length times width times depth gives cubic feet after depth is divided by twelve. The waste percentage increases that loose volume, then cubic feet divided by 27 gives cubic yards. Weight is adjusted cubic feet multiplied by the density entered; 2,000 pounds equals one US short ton.

Density is an input, not a universal constant

Gravel weight changes with rock type, particle size, grading, moisture, and how loosely material is measured. The default 100 lb/ft³ is only a planning example. Use a bulk-density or coverage figure from the exact supplier and product whenever ordering or checking vehicle capacity.

Worked example

A 12-by-10-foot rectangle at 4 inches deep contains 40 cubic feet. Adding 10% gives 44 cubic feet, or about 1.63 cubic yards. At an assumed 100 lb/ft³, estimated weight is 4,400 pounds, equal to 2.20 US short tons.

Measuring useful depth

Measure finished coverage depth, not edging height or excavation depth unless both are truly equal. Separate irregular spaces into rectangles and add estimates. A sloped or uneven base can consume more material than a flat-area calculation suggests, so field measurements and supplier advice remain important.

Assumptions and limitations

This is a loose quantity estimate, not engineering or installation advice. It does not model compaction, settlement, base layers, drainage, fabric, grading, load-bearing design, product coverage, delivery minimums, truck limits, or price. Waste is a visible planning allowance, not a prescribed amount. Confirm units and round purchases according to supplier increments.