Gravel Calculator
Find out exactly how much gravel you need — cubic yards, tons, and total cost — instantly. Perfect for driveways, pathways, drainage, and landscaping projects.
Reviewed by MyProjectCost Team
Key takeaway: Gravel costs $15–$140 per ton depending on type, with crushed stone (the most common driveway material) running $40–$58/ton. A standard 20×40 ft driveway at 4 inches deep needs about 14 tons of material.
Definition: Gravel cost is the total price of material and delivery needed to cover a driveway, patio, walkway, or landscaped area — calculated from area size, desired depth, and gravel type (pea gravel, crushed stone, river rock, or decomposed granite). This calculator estimates cubic yards, tons, and total cost.
Who should use this calculator? This gravel calculator is designed for homeowners, landscapers, and contractors estimating gravel quantity and cost for a driveway, patio base, walkway, or landscaping project before ordering material.
Gravel Cost Per Ton by Type
| Gravel Type | Low ($/ton) | Average ($/ton) | High ($/ton) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel | $35 | $45 | $58 |
| Crushed Stone | $40 | $48 | $58 |
| River Rock | $50 | $65 | $85 |
| Decomposed Granite | $30 | $40 | $52 |
| Crusher Run (#411) | $22 | $32 | $45 |
| White Marble Chips | $70 | $100 | $140 |
Gravel Cost Per Ton by State (2026)
Average bulk crushed stone price per ton, including standard delivery. Prices vary by gravel type and supplier.
| State | Low ($/ton) | Average ($/ton) | High ($/ton) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $28 | $40 | $56 |
| Alaska | $60 | $85 | $120 |
| Arizona | $34 | $48 | $68 |
| Arkansas | $26 | $38 | $54 |
| California | $46 | $65 | $92 |
| Colorado | $37 | $52 | $74 |
| Connecticut | $42 | $60 | $84 |
| Delaware | $38 | $55 | $78 |
| Florida | $34 | $48 | $68 |
| Georgia | $29 | $42 | $60 |
| Hawaii | $68 | $95 | $135 |
| Idaho | $32 | $45 | $64 |
| Illinois | $34 | $48 | $68 |
| Indiana | $32 | $45 | $64 |
| Iowa | $29 | $42 | $60 |
| Kansas | $28 | $40 | $56 |
| Kentucky | $29 | $42 | $60 |
| Louisiana | $29 | $42 | $60 |
| Maine | $40 | $58 | $82 |
| Maryland | $39 | $56 | $80 |
| Massachusetts | $46 | $65 | $92 |
| Michigan | $34 | $48 | $68 |
| Minnesota | $35 | $50 | $70 |
| Mississippi | $26 | $38 | $54 |
| Missouri | $31 | $44 | $62 |
| Montana | $34 | $48 | $68 |
| Nebraska | $29 | $42 | $60 |
| Nevada | $38 | $55 | $78 |
| New Hampshire | $42 | $60 | $84 |
| New Jersey | $43 | $62 | $88 |
| New Mexico | $32 | $46 | $66 |
| New York | $48 | $68 | $96 |
| North Carolina | $31 | $44 | $62 |
| North Dakota | $29 | $42 | $60 |
| Ohio | $32 | $46 | $66 |
| Oklahoma | $28 | $40 | $56 |
| Oregon | $40 | $58 | $82 |
| Pennsylvania | $37 | $52 | $74 |
| Rhode Island | $43 | $62 | $88 |
| South Carolina | $29 | $42 | $60 |
| South Dakota | $28 | $40 | $56 |
| Tennessee | $29 | $42 | $60 |
| Texas | $31 | $44 | $62 |
| Utah | $35 | $50 | $70 |
| Vermont | $40 | $58 | $82 |
| Virginia | $37 | $52 | $74 |
| Washington | $42 | $60 | $84 |
| West Virginia | $29 | $42 | $60 |
| Wisconsin | $34 | $48 | $68 |
| Wyoming | $32 | $45 | $64 |
How Much Gravel Do I Need?
Calculating gravel quantity comes down to three measurements: length, width, and depth. The formula is: Cubic Yards = (Length × Width × Depth in inches ÷ 12) ÷ 27. Then convert to tons: Tons = Cubic Yards × 1.4 (the standard weight factor for most crushed stone and pea gravel). For a 20 × 40 foot driveway at 4 inches deep, that is (20 × 40 × 4 ÷ 12) ÷ 27 = 9.88 cubic yards, or roughly 13.8 tons. Our calculator handles all of this instantly.
A common mistake is forgetting to account for compaction. Gravel compacts 10–15% after being spread and driven over, so ordering 10–15% extra ensures full coverage. Our high estimate automatically builds in this buffer.
Gravel Depth Guide
Getting the depth right is as important as getting the quantity right. Too little and the material shifts; too much wastes money. Here are the recommended depths by application:
- Driveways: 4–6 inches total. The best approach is a two-layer system — 4 inches of compacted base stone (such as #57 crushed limestone) topped with a 2-inch finish layer of pea gravel or crusher run screenings. This creates a stable, well-draining surface that resists ruts and shifting.
- Garden pathways and walkways: 2–3 inches. This depth provides comfortable footing, suppresses weeds, and looks tidy without requiring a massive amount of material. Use pea gravel, decomposed granite, or river rock for paths.
- Drainage applications (French drains, dry creek beds): 6–12 inches. Drainage projects need enough depth to surround a perforated pipe completely and allow water to move freely. Use clean washed stone (#57 or #89) to prevent fine particles from clogging the drain over time.
- Decorative landscaping beds: 2–3 inches. Enough to prevent soil erosion and suppress weeds while letting water through to plants.
Gravel Cost Per Ton — What to Expect
Gravel prices vary more than most homeowners expect. Here is a breakdown by the most popular types:
- Pea gravel ($35–$55/ton): Small, smooth, rounded stones in natural earth tones. Excellent for pathways, playgrounds, and decorative beds. Affordable and widely available, but tends to scatter in high-traffic areas without an edging border.
- Crushed stone ($40–$55/ton): Angular, mechanically crushed limestone or granite. The workhouse of gravel — ideal for driveways, base layers, and drainage because its irregular edges lock together and resist shifting. #57 stone (3/4 inch) is the most common size.
- River rock ($50–$80/ton): Naturally smoothed stones from riverbeds, ranging from 1 to 5 inches. Beautiful for dry creek beds, water features, and accent landscaping. More decorative than functional for driveways.
- Decomposed granite ($30–$50/ton): Fine-grained crushed granite that compacts to a firm, natural-looking surface. Popular for pathways, patios, and xeriscaping in dry climates. Stabilized decomposed granite (with a polymer binder) holds together even better.
Bulk delivery typically adds $50–$150 per load. Most suppliers have a 5–10 ton minimum for delivery, so small jobs may be cheaper with bagged stone from a home improvement store — though bagged material costs 2–3× more per ton.
Types of Gravel — Which Is Right for You?
Matching gravel type to application prevents costly rework:
- Pea gravel is the classic choice for attractive, low-maintenance landscaping. Its smooth texture is comfortable underfoot and works well around pool areas and garden beds. Install with a plastic or metal edging border to prevent migration.
- Crushed stone (particularly crusher run or #411) is the most practical choice for structural applications. The mix of crushed stone and stone dust compacts into a near-solid surface that handles vehicle weight well and sheds water effectively.
- River rock excels in water management applications — lining drainage swales, building dry creek beds, and decorating rain gardens. Its smooth surface lets water move quickly without clogging.
- Decomposed granite is a favorite in Western and Southwestern landscapes for a natural, dust-free finish on paths and patios. It is permeable, weed-resistant when applied at proper depth, and blends seamlessly with native plantings.
Planning related outdoor projects? See our mulch calculator or fence cost calculator for complementary estimates.
How Much Gravel Do I Need Calculator
Enter your area's length, width, and desired depth into the calculator above to get cubic yards, tonnage, and cost in seconds.
The gravel calculator above eliminates guesswork from any outdoor project. Simply enter your area's length and width in feet, select your desired depth, and input a local price per ton — the tool calculates cubic yards, total tonnage, and estimated cost in seconds. It automatically applies the standard conversion factor of 1.4 tons per cubic yard and builds in a 10% compaction buffer so your order accounts for settling after installation. This matters because gravel compacts noticeably under foot traffic and vehicle weight, meaning a 4-inch depth can settle to 3.5 inches over time. Whether you are ordering crushed stone for a driveway base or pea gravel for a garden pathway, use the calculator as a starting point and always verify pricing with your local bulk gravel supplier before placing an order.
How Many Tons of Gravel Do I Need?
Multiply cubic yards by 1.4 to get tons — for example, a 20×40 ft driveway at 4 inches deep needs about 13.8 tons.
Gravel is typically sold and delivered in tons by bulk suppliers. To convert cubic yards to tons, multiply by 1.4 — the standard weight factor for most crushed stone and pea gravel. For example, a 20 × 40 foot driveway at 4 inches deep equals 9.88 cubic yards, which is approximately 13.8 tons. A 10 × 10 foot patio at 3 inches deep requires 0.93 cubic yards, or about 1.3 tons. Lighter materials like pumice weigh less per yard, while dense granite may weigh slightly more. Because suppliers typically sell in full-ton increments, always round up to the nearest ton to avoid a shortage mid-project. Use the calculator above to get your exact tonnage based on real dimensions, then add 10% for waste and compaction when placing your final order.
How Many Cubic Yards of Gravel Do I Need?
One cubic yard of gravel covers 324 sq ft at 1 inch deep, 162 sq ft at 2 inches, or 81 sq ft at 4 inches.
Cubic yards are the standard unit for measuring gravel volume. The formula is straightforward: multiply length (feet) × width (feet) × depth (inches ÷ 12) to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 to convert to cubic yards. A 50 × 10 foot path at 3 inches deep works out to (50 × 10 × 0.25) ÷ 27 = 4.63 cubic yards. One cubic yard of gravel covers 324 square feet at a 1-inch depth, 162 square feet at 2 inches, or 81 square feet at 4 inches. Most bulk gravel suppliers price material by the cubic yard or ton, so knowing both numbers helps you compare quotes accurately. The calculator above handles this conversion automatically, giving you cubic yards, tons, and cost in a single click based on your specific dimensions.
How Deep Should Gravel Be for a Driveway?
Most driveways need 4–6 inches of total gravel depth — a 4-inch compacted base layer topped with a 2-inch finish layer.
Most driveways need 4–6 inches of total gravel depth for stable, long-lasting performance. The recommended approach is a two-layer system: a 4-inch compacted base layer of larger angular stone (such as #57 crushed limestone or 3/4-inch crusher run) topped with a 2-inch finish layer of smaller pea gravel or #411 screenings. The base layer provides structural support and drainage; the finish layer creates a smooth, attractive surface. For heavy vehicles like trucks or SUVs, extend the base to 6 inches. Skip the two-layer approach and apply a single 4-inch layer of crusher run if simplicity is the priority — it compacts into a firm, durable surface on its own. Always prepare the subgrade first by removing vegetation and raking level before adding any gravel.
How Much Does Gravel Cost Per Yard?
Gravel costs $25–$90 per cubic yard depending on material type, location, and whether delivery is included.
Gravel prices per cubic yard typically range from $25 to $90, depending on material type, your location, and whether delivery is included. Crusher run and decomposed granite are the most affordable options at $25–$55 per cubic yard; pea gravel averages $45–$75 per yard; river rock and decorative marble chips run $65–$120 or more per yard. Most bulk suppliers price by the ton rather than the cubic yard — since one cubic yard weighs approximately 1.4 tons, you can convert by multiplying cubic yards by 1.4 to get tons, then applying the per-ton rate. For reference, a standard 10-ton bulk delivery truck holds approximately 7–8 cubic yards. If buying bagged gravel from a home improvement store, expect to pay 2–3 times more per cubic yard than bulk pricing. Always request quotes from at least two local suppliers before ordering.
How Much Does Gravel Cost Per Ton?
Bulk gravel costs $15–$75 per ton depending on type, with crushed stone averaging $40–$58 per ton.
Bulk gravel costs $15–$75 per ton depending on type and region. Budget options include crusher run at $22–$45 per ton and decomposed granite at $30–$52 per ton. Mid-range choices like pea gravel run $35–$58 per ton, and crushed stone (the most common driveway material) averages $40–$58 per ton. Premium materials such as river rock cost $50–$85 per ton, while white marble chips can reach $70–$140 per ton. These prices typically reflect bulk material at the quarry; delivery adds $150–$600 per load depending on distance and supplier. In 2026, prices have been elevated in many regions due to fuel surcharges and increased demand. To get the best rate, request quotes from multiple local suppliers and ask whether combining your order with a neighbor's can reduce the delivery fee.
How Much Gravel Do I Need for a Driveway?
A standard single-car driveway (10×50 ft) needs about 7.7 cubic yards, or 10.7 tons, at 5 inches deep.
Driveway gravel quantities depend on size and depth. A standard single-car driveway measuring 10 × 50 feet needs about 7.7 cubic yards (10.7 tons) at 5 inches deep. A two-car driveway at 20 × 40 feet requires 12.3 cubic yards (17.3 tons) at the same depth. A long country driveway of 20 × 200 feet at 4 inches deep demands 49.4 cubic yards — roughly 69 tons. For most residential driveways, plan on a 4-inch base layer of #57 crushed stone plus a 2-inch finish layer, then order 10–15% extra for compaction and edge spillage. Enter your exact dimensions into the calculator above to get a precise estimate along with a cost range based on your local per-ton price. Using recycled crushed concrete as the base layer can cut material costs by 20–30%.
How Much Gravel Do I Need for a Patio?
A 12×16 ft gravel patio needs about 2.1 cubic yards, or 3 tons, at 3 inches deep.
A gravel patio requires less depth than a driveway but still needs a solid base to prevent settling and weed breakthrough. For a casual patio or sitting area, plan on 3–4 inches of gravel depth. A 12 × 16 foot patio at 3 inches deep requires about 2.1 cubic yards (3 tons) of material. A larger 20 × 20 foot patio at 4 inches needs 4.9 cubic yards (6.9 tons). Most designers recommend a base layer of compacted #57 crushed stone topped with 1–2 inches of pea gravel or decomposed granite for a comfortable, attractive surface. For a structured patio, install a plastic or metal edging border before laying gravel to prevent spreading onto the lawn. Use the calculator above to enter your patio's exact dimensions and choose your desired depth for an instant material estimate.
What Type of Gravel Is Best for Driveways?
Crusher run (#411) is widely considered the best material for residential driveways because it compacts into a near-solid, rut-resistant surface.
Crusher run (#411) is widely considered the best single material for residential driveways. It is a blend of crushed stone and stone dust that compacts into a near-solid surface, resists ruts, and handles vehicle weight without shifting. For a premium two-layer driveway, use 4 inches of #57 crushed limestone as the structural base and 2 inches of crusher run or pea gravel on top. Pea gravel alone looks attractive but migrates under tire pressure unless retained by sturdy edging on both sides. River rock and decorative stones are generally too smooth and round for driveways — they scatter unpredictably and reduce steering traction. Decomposed granite is a popular choice in dry climates for its natural look and firm surface when properly compacted. In 2026, angular crushed stone remains the go-to material for DIY driveway projects nationwide due to its low cost and durability.
What Is Pea Gravel Used For?
Pea gravel is best for garden pathways, playgrounds, pool surrounds, and decorative landscape beds due to its smooth, comfortable texture.
Pea gravel is a versatile, smooth-surfaced material ranging from 1/4 to 3/8 inch in size, named for its resemblance to garden peas. Its most popular uses include garden pathways and walkways, playground surfaces, pool surrounds, dog runs, and decorative landscape beds. The smooth texture feels comfortable underfoot, making it a better barefoot surface than crushed angular stone. At $35–$55 per ton, it is one of the more affordable natural stone options. For pathways, 2–3 inches is sufficient; for playgrounds and fall-protection zones, 3–6 inches provides cushioning. The main drawback of pea gravel is migration — it moves underfoot and under tire pressure, so always install a solid edging border (plastic, metal, or brick) around any pea gravel surface to keep it contained. Landscape fabric underneath helps suppress weeds while allowing water drainage through the stone.
How Much Does Gravel Delivery Cost?
Gravel delivery costs $150–$600 per load, with most suppliers offering free delivery above a 5–10 ton minimum order.
Gravel delivery in 2026 typically costs $150–$600 per load, depending on distance from the quarry and the supplier's minimum order policy. A standard bulk delivery truck carries 10–15 tons, so delivery fees are often calculated per load rather than per ton. Many suppliers offer free delivery within a specific radius (usually 20–30 miles) when you order above their minimum — typically 5–10 tons. For orders under 5 tons, delivery fees can significantly increase the per-ton cost, making bagged gravel from a home improvement store a more practical choice for small projects. Some companies charge a split-load fee if you need different gravel types in one delivery. To minimize delivery costs on larger projects, coordinate with a neighbor doing similar work — splitting a single bulk delivery can cut the per-ton delivery cost in half.
How Much Gravel Do I Need for Landscaping?
A 200 sq ft garden bed at 2 inches deep needs about 1.25 cubic yards, or roughly 1.75 tons.
Landscaping gravel quantities vary by project type. Decorative flower beds and garden borders typically need 2–3 inches of depth — at 2 inches, one ton covers roughly 160 square feet; at 3 inches, the same ton covers about 100 square feet. For a 200-square-foot front garden bed at 2 inches deep, you need 1.25 cubic yards (approximately 1.75 tons). Dry creek beds and drainage swales need more material — 4–6 inches of washed stone to channel water effectively. Xeriscaping projects in dry climates often use 3–4 inches of decomposed granite or crushed gravel to replace lawn grass, dramatically reducing water usage. When estimating landscaping gravel, sketch out all beds and calculate each area separately, then add 10% for waste and irregular edges. The calculator above handles rectangular areas and provides cost estimates alongside volume totals.
How Many Square Feet Does a Ton of Gravel Cover?
One ton of gravel covers about 200 square feet at 1 inch deep, or 50 square feet at 4 inches deep.
Coverage per ton depends entirely on how deep you spread the gravel. At a 1-inch depth, one ton covers approximately 200 square feet. At 2 inches, coverage drops to about 100 square feet per ton. At 3 inches, a ton covers 65–70 square feet. At 4 inches (the standard driveway base depth), one ton covers just 50 square feet. These figures assume an average gravel density of 1.4 tons per cubic yard, which applies to most crushed stone, pea gravel, and crusher run. Lighter materials like pumice or lava rock cover more area per ton; denser materials like wet river rock cover slightly less. For quick field estimates, the rule of thumb is: divide 200 by the depth in inches to get approximate square feet of coverage per ton. The calculator above uses this same logic and adds a 10% compaction buffer to your total.
What Is the Difference Between Gravel and Crushed Stone?
Natural gravel is smooth and rounded from weathering, while crushed stone is mechanically broken with sharp angular edges that interlock for structural stability, according to official aggregate classification standards published by ASTM International.
Gravel and crushed stone are related but distinct materials. Natural gravel forms through weathering and erosion — river rock and pea gravel are classic examples. These stones have smooth, rounded surfaces because water has worn down their edges over time. Crushed stone is mechanically broken from larger rocks using industrial crushers, producing sharp angular edges that interlock when compacted. For structural applications like driveway bases, retaining wall backfill, and French drains, crushed stone outperforms natural gravel because angular edges resist lateral movement. For decorative uses where appearance matters more than strength — flower beds, pool surrounds, and pathways — smooth natural gravel is often preferred. In pricing, crushed stone typically costs $20–$55 per ton while decorative natural gravel runs $35–$100 per ton. Both are sold by the ton for bulk delivery and are compatible with landscape fabric underlayment to control weeds and prevent mixing with native soil.
How Do I Calculate Gravel for an Irregular Shape?
Break the area into rectangles, triangles, or circles, calculate each sub-area separately, then add them together before applying your desired depth.
Calculating gravel for odd-shaped areas requires breaking the space into simpler geometric shapes. Divide the irregular area into rectangles, triangles, or circles — whichever fits best. Calculate each sub-area separately: rectangle = length × width; triangle = 0.5 × base × height; circle = 3.14 × radius². Add all sub-areas together, then multiply by your desired depth in feet (inches ÷ 12) to get cubic feet. Divide by 27 to convert to cubic yards, then multiply by 1.4 for tons. For example, an L-shaped gravel bed with sections measuring 10 × 8 and 6 × 5 feet has a total area of 110 square feet. At 3 inches deep, that is 1.02 cubic yards or about 1.43 tons. The calculator above works for rectangular areas; for complex shapes, measure each rectangle separately, run the calculator for each, and add the results together.
How Much Does It Cost to Gravel a Driveway?
Graveling a driveway costs $300–$1,500 for DIY projects, or $1,000–$4,000+ for professional installation with grading and edging.
Graveling a standard residential driveway costs $300–$1,500 for DIY projects and $1,000–$4,000 or more for professional installation with grading and edging. Material is the biggest variable: gravel costs $15–$75 per ton, and a typical 20 × 40 foot driveway at 4 inches deep requires about 14–17 tons, putting material costs at $250–$1,000 depending on gravel type. Delivery adds $150–$600 per load. For DIY projects, additional tools include a plate compactor (rentable for $75–$150 per day) and a rake. Professional driveway installation includes subgrade preparation, grading, edging, material, and spreading — typically $2–$5 per square foot all-in. A 20 × 100 foot driveway professionally graveled in 2026 would cost $4,000–$10,000. For most homeowners, DIY gravel installation is straightforward and one of the best cost-saving opportunities in home improvement.
How Many Inches of Gravel Do I Need Under a Patio?
A decorative gravel patio needs 3–4 inches of base depth, while a paver or flagstone patio needs a two-layer base of 4–6 inches.
A gravel base under a patio provides drainage, prevents frost heaving, and gives pavers or stepping stones a stable surface that resists settling. For a simple decorative gravel patio, 3–4 inches of depth is sufficient. For a paver or flagstone patio, use a two-layer base: 4 inches of compacted crushed stone (#57 or #411) topped with 1 inch of coarse sand or stone dust. In northern climates where the ground freezes, extend the base to 6 inches of crushed stone to ensure the surface stays level through freeze-thaw cycles. For concrete or solid hardscape patios, base requirements increase to 4–6 inches of compacted gravel plus the slab thickness. When calculating patio base material, factor in both the gravel base and any topping layer separately using the calculator above. Proper base preparation accounts for roughly 30–40% of total patio project cost.
Does Gravel Need Landscape Fabric Underneath?
Landscape fabric is recommended for pathways and garden beds, but should be skipped under driveways since vehicle traffic punctures it over time.
Landscape fabric under gravel is recommended in most situations but not universally required. The fabric creates a barrier that prevents weeds from pushing through while allowing water to drain freely. It also keeps gravel from gradually mixing with the underlying soil over time, which causes surfaces to become muddy and uneven. For driveways and high-traffic areas, skip the fabric — vehicles and foot traffic puncture it over time, and it does not hold up under repeated compaction stress. For garden beds, pathways, and decorative areas with pea gravel or river rock, landscape fabric pays for itself in reduced weeding time over several seasons. The fabric costs $0.10–$0.25 per square foot and installs easily with landscape staples. Overlap seams by 6 inches to prevent gap weeds. Woven fabric is more durable than non-woven for most gravel applications, and heavier weight (3–4 oz/yd²) performs better long-term.
How Long Does a Gravel Driveway Last?
A well-installed gravel driveway lasts 10–20 years, with top-dressing recommended every 3–5 years.
A well-installed gravel driveway lasts 10–20 years before requiring major renovation, though the surface benefits from top-dressing every 3–5 years. Crusher run and compacted angular crushed stone age better than smooth-stone surfaces because angular material resists displacement. The most common causes of deterioration are improper base preparation, insufficient initial depth, and lack of edging — all of which cause gravel to migrate laterally onto adjacent lawn. Routine maintenance every 1–2 years includes raking displaced gravel back to center, filling low spots with fresh material, and re-grading the crown to shed water toward drainage. In 2026, a gravel driveway remains one of the most cost-effective options for rural and semi-rural properties, running 50–80% less than asphalt or concrete over a 20-year period. Proper drainage channels along both edges are the single biggest factor in longevity — without them, water pools under the surface and accelerates frost heave damage in cold climates.
What Size Gravel Is Best for Walkways?
3/8-inch pea gravel, fine crushed stone, or decomposed granite are best for walkways — comfortable underfoot and stable at 2–3 inches deep.
Walkway gravel should be small, comfortable underfoot, and stable enough to stay in place under regular foot traffic. The best sizes are 3/8-inch pea gravel, fine crushed stone chips, or decomposed granite. Pea gravel is the most popular walkway choice — smooth, affordable at $35–$55 per ton, and available in earth tones or colorful options. Decomposed granite compacts into a firm, dust-free path that resembles a packed trail, ideal for naturalistic garden settings. Avoid gravel larger than 3/4 inch for walkways — larger stones feel unstable underfoot and increase tripping risk. Install 2–3 inches deep on top of landscape fabric, contained by plastic or steel edging on both sides. For accessibility-compliant paths, stabilized decomposed granite (mixed with a polymer binder) creates a firm ADA-friendly surface at $1–$2 more per square foot than loose material. Use the calculator above to estimate how many tons you need for your walkway dimensions and desired depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
A standard two-car driveway measuring 20 × 40 feet at a 4-inch depth requires about 12.3 cubic yards, which equals roughly 17 tons of gravel. A longer driveway of 20 × 100 feet at the same depth needs about 30 cubic yards (42 tons). Use our calculator to enter your exact dimensions and get the precise tonnage for your project.
Depth requirements vary by application: driveways need 4–6 inches (with a compacted base layer of 4 inches plus a 2-inch top dressing), garden pathways need 2–3 inches for comfortable walking, French drains and drainage projects need 6–12 inches of washed stone around the pipe, and decorative landscaping beds need 2–3 inches. For driveways, a two-layer approach works best — a larger crushed stone base (3/4 inch) topped with smaller pea gravel or screenings for a smooth surface.
One ton of gravel covers approximately 100 square feet at a 2-inch depth, 80 square feet at 3 inches, or 55 square feet at 4 inches. In cubic yards, 1 ton equals roughly 0.71 cubic yards (since gravel weighs about 1.4 tons per cubic yard). Lighter materials like pea gravel cover slightly more; denser crushed stone covers slightly less. Our calculator applies the standard 1.4 tons/yd³ conversion automatically.
Crushed stone (#57 or #411 crusher run) is the top choice for driveways because its angular edges lock together and compact well, preventing shifting. A two-layer system works best: 4 inches of #57 crushed stone as a base, topped with 2 inches of #411 or pea gravel. Pea gravel alone is attractive but tends to scatter underfoot and under tires. River rock looks beautiful in decorative beds but is too smooth and round for stable driveways.
Gravel delivery typically costs $50–$150 per load for a standard 10-ton bulk truck, plus the per-ton material price. Many suppliers offer free delivery above a minimum order (usually 5–10 tons). For small jobs under 1 ton, buying bagged gravel at a home improvement store is more practical, though it costs 2–3× more per ton than bulk. Some suppliers charge a flat delivery fee regardless of quantity, making larger orders more economical.