Gravel Driveway Calculator
Plan your driveway one layer at a time. Estimate aggregate volume and weight, then compare supplier prices.
Tell us about your project
Build your layer plan.
Use the footprint above for each layer. Depth inputs below are in inches or centimeters to match the calculator. All starter values are examples, not installation specifications. Each row has its own material, density, allowance and optional rate per US ton.
Layer costs exclude delivery, taxes and labor. Unpriced layers are excluded from the priced subtotal. Main calculator pricing applies only to its single selected layer.
Keep your project handy.
Save a plan file, load one later, or create a link with your current inputs. Shared links include your ZIP and quote reference if entered. Keep private information out of those fields.
Separate support from surface
A new driveway may need different aggregate in its structural base and wearing surface. Estimate each specified layer separately with the planner below. For resurfacing, measure only the area and depth actually being added.
Do not choose thickness by calculator default
The starting depth is an example input, not a design recommendation. Soil support, traffic, drainage and climate determine the required section. Confirm finished versus loose depths before placing an order.
Driveway example
A 60 × 12-foot footprint with a 4-inch example base layer contains 8.89 yd³ before allowance. At 10% extra and an assumed 1.50 US tons/yd³, that base layer requires approximately 14.67 US tons. A surface layer must be calculated separately.
Sources and methodology
Our volume and weight formulas are documented in the calculation methodology. Material densities are editable planning assumptions, not measured product specifications. For road selection and drainage principles, see Penn State Extension. For sand product distinctions, see QUIKRETE Mason Sand and All-Purpose Sand. Follow local and manufacturer specifications.
Measure twice.
Order once.
For a rectangle, multiply length × width × depth with all dimensions in feet. Divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards. For a circle, area is π × radius².
Order volume = measured volume × (1 + extra percentage ÷ 100). Weight = order volume in cubic yards × density in US tons per cubic yard. One US short ton is 2,000 pounds; it is different from a metric tonne.
A calculator for the job.
A little know-how goes a long way.
Plan your gravel driveway
Measure the footprint, think in layers, and account for delivery.
Read the guide ↗02 / MATERIALSChoose material & stone size
Compare aggregate types, stone sizes, fines, and the right uses for each.
Read the guide ↗03 / ORDERINGYards, tons, and the delivery truck
Turn your estimate into a useful conversation with your supplier.
Read the guide ↗Plan it with a little expert help.
Independent third-party resources. Regional guidance and product specifications may differ from your site.
Better access roads
Explore surface aggregate selection, drainage and road maintenance.
Read expert article ↗CMHA · PAVER INSTALLATIONBuild the layers correctly
Industry guidance covering site preparation, base aggregate, bedding and installation.
Read technical guide ↗UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSIONThink about runoff
Learn about rain-garden siting, soil testing and managing water in the landscape.
Read expert article ↗Before you order
How much does one cubic yard of gravel weigh?
There is no single weight for every gravel product. This calculator starts at 1.4 US tons per cubic yard for crushed gravel as a planning assumption. Ask your supplier for the actual bulk density, then change the density field.
Does this account for compaction?
The extra percentage is an ordering allowance, not an engineered compaction factor. If your depth describes the finished compacted layer, ask the supplier or contractor how much loose material is required to achieve it.
How do I measure an irregular area?
Break it into rectangles and circles and calculate each section separately. Avoid counting overlapping sections twice. For varying depths, take several measurements and use a representative average, or calculate each depth zone separately.