How Much Gravel Do I Need? Tons and Cubic Yards Calculator
One cubic yard of gravel weighs about 1.35 tons and covers 100 square feet at 3 inches deep.
Formula: Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (inches) / 12 = cubic feet. Divide by 27 for cubic yards. Multiply cubic yards by 1.35 for tons. A 12×40 foot driveway at 3 inches deep: 12 × 40 × 3/12 = 120 cubic feet = 4.4 cubic yards = 6.0 tons. At $25-50 per ton delivered, that is $150-300 for the gravel plus $50-100 delivery.
Gravel Types and Uses
Crushed stone (#57): angular, compacts well, excellent for driveways. Pea gravel: smooth, round, good for walkways and drainage. River rock: decorative, larger stones, does not compact. Crushed limestone: compacts into a firm surface, good for paths and patios. Base gravel (#2): large angular stones for foundation layers under driveways and patios (always use a base layer under decorative gravel).
Installation Tips
Always install landscape fabric under gravel to prevent weeds — this is not optional. Use edging to keep gravel contained (aluminum, steel, or plastic). Compact base layers with a plate compactor. Apply gravel in 2-inch lifts, compacting each layer. A 3-layer system (4 inches base, 2 inches mid, 2 inches surface) lasts decades and stays firm.