Gravel Driveway Calculator
Estimate tons of gravel for a driveway from its length, width and depth.
Calculator
| Cubic yards to order (+5%) | 1.30 yd³ |
|---|---|
| Cubic yards (exact) | 1.23 yd³ |
| Cubic feet | 33.3 ft³ |
How it is calculated
10 ft × 10 ft × 4 in ÷ 12 = 33.3 cubic feet = 1.23 cubic yards. Add 5% for settling and uneven ground: 1.30 cubic yards (about 1.81 tons).
About this calculator
Gravel driveways are built in layers: coarse stone at the bottom for strength and drainage, then smaller stone on top for a smooth surface. A total depth of around 4 to 6 inches is common for cars, with more for heavy vehicles or soft ground.
A gravel drive needs good drainage and edges. Crowning the middle slightly sheds water, and edge restraint keeps stone from washing off. Expect to top up the stone every few years.
Worked examples
| Project | Tons (about 1.4 t/yd³, +5%) | Rough cost |
|---|---|---|
| a 30 ft long, 10 ft wide gravel driveway, 4 in deep | 5.44 tons | $136 – $354 |
| a 50 ft long, 12 ft wide gravel driveway, 4 in deep | 10.89 tons | $272 – $708 |
| a 100 ft long, 12 ft wide gravel driveway, 6 in deep | 32.67 tons | $817 – $2,123 |
| a 150 ft long, 14 ft wide gravel driveway, 6 in deep | 57.17 tons | $1,429 – $3,716 |
Buying notes
- Ask your supplier which stone sizes to use for the base and the top layer.
- Order a little extra because the first layer compacts.
- Landscape fabric under the base helps separate stone from soil.
Quick answers by size
Click a size for the exact quantity and cost.
How to measure and use this calculator
- Measure the driveway length and average width.
- Choose a total depth; heavier vehicles need a deeper base.
- Read tons of gravel and plan layers: base stone first, finer stone on top.
- Allow for the first layer compacting down.
Common mistakes
- Using only one size of stone, which can rut easily.
- Skipping drainage and crowning, so water pools on the surface.
- Forgetting that edges wash out without restraint.
Tips
- Driveways are usually built in layers: coarse base stone first, finer stone on top.
- A 4–6 inch total depth works for light traffic; heavier loads need a deeper base.
- Order a little extra because the first layer compacts down.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
Four to six inches in total is common for cars; poor soil and heavier vehicles call for more.
How often does a gravel driveway need more gravel?
It depends on traffic, weather and drainage. Many gravel drives need a top-up every few years.
What size gravel is best for a driveway?
Larger angular stone for the base and smaller crushed stone for the top is a common approach. Your supplier can recommend products for your area.