How much gravel do I need for a driveway?

How do I calculate gravel for a driveway?

For each rectangular section, multiply length in feet by width in feet by depth in inches, then divide by 324. That gives cubic yards before ordering extras. Calculate each layer separately and add only sections that do not overlap.

Start at the boundary

Walk the driveway and sketch the part that will receive gravel. Divide a regular area into rectangles, or trace an irregular boundary in the visual measuring tool. A parking turnout that overlaps the main rectangle should not be counted twice. Exclude islands and areas that will keep their existing surface.

Measure width in several places. If the edges taper, use a trapezoid or split the footprint into simpler shapes instead of assuming the widest dimension applies everywhere. A map is useful context but may not show the edge accurately.

A two-layer worked example

Take a 20 × 10 ft footprint: 200 ft². Suppose a project specification calls for a 4 in base and a 2 in surface. These thicknesses are example inputs, not a design recommendation.

Do not multiply the combined thickness by one density when the materials differ. Enter each density independently in the driveway calculator. Its material worksheet preserves both layers.

How do I convert driveway gravel volume to weight?

Multiply each layer’s volume in cubic meters by its bulk density in kg/m³. Divide the result by 1,000 for metric tonnes or 907.18474 for US short tons. Use the supplier’s density for each material; adding volumes does not establish the combined weight.

Turn the estimate into a quote

Ask your supplier which units they sell, what density they use, and whether their minimum or delivery increments change the purchase. If a layer needs 2.5926 yd³ and the supplier sells half-yard increments, you buy 3 yd³, not 2.5.

Confirm whether the specified thickness is loose or compacted. Apply a loose-volume adjustment only when required and avoid adding the same factor again under “extra.” Vulcan notes that project conditions affect final quantities; a worksheet does not replace a supplier’s project review.

Print the itemized estimate with its dimensions, densities and allowances. For subgrade, loading, drainage and structural depth, obtain site-specific guidance before ordering. This tool estimates quantities from your design; it does not create the design.