Pea Gravel Calculator
Estimate pea gravel for patios, paths and landscape beds, with rounded-up bag quantities and editable supplier density.
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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.
Contain the rounded stone
Pea gravel is rounded and can migrate under feet or furniture. Plan edging and consider whether the loose finish suits the slope and intended users. A stable base and the decorative topping are separate quantities.
Use the actual bag weight
The bag estimate divides calculated pounds by your bag weight and rounds up. A 50-pound bag is not the same as a 0.5-cubic-foot bag. If the bag is sold by volume, use the supplier’s stated coverage or confirmed density.
Patio example
A 12 × 12-foot area at an example 2-inch depth contains 0.89 yd³. With 10% extra and an assumed 1.30 US tons/yd³, it needs about 1.27 US tons, or 51 bags at 50 pounds each. This is an example, not a required installation depth.
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.