Estimating gravel by eye often backfires as you can end up with costly leftovers or an annoying shortage at critical times. A gravel calculator fixes that by taking your inputs and bringing you the exact gravel volume and weight you need. It cuts waste, speeds up planning, reduces extra delivery runs, and works for project of any shape and size.
Gravel Types
Pea Gravel
Small, rounded pebbles (≈ 10 mm) gentle underfoot—ideal for garden paths, dog runs, and play areas.
Density ≈ 1600 kg/m³
Crushed Stone (Angular)
Sharp-edged fragments that interlock tightly—perfect for driveways, road bases, and high-load areas.
Density ≈ 1680 kg/m³
River Rock
Smooth, naturally tumbled stones used decoratively in dry creek beds, water features, and edging.
Density ≈ 1500 kg/m³
Granite Chippings
Pink, grey, or red specks of crushed granite—popular for modern paths and decorative mulch.
Density ≈ 1700 kg/m³
Limestone Gravel
Pale grey, calcium-rich chips that compact firmly—great under pavers and for road sub-base.
Density ≈ 1550 kg/m³
Quartzite Gravel
Sparkling, exceptionally hard fragments that resist weathering—suitable for high-traffic areas.
Density ≈ 1650 kg/m³
Slate Chippings
Thin, flat shards in blue, plum, or green tones—give contemporary texture around borders and ponds.
Density ≈ 1400 kg/m³
Marble Chips
Bright white, reflective pieces that keep soil cool—great for formal beds but can glare in strong sun.
Density ≈ 1650 kg/m³
Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA)
Crushed, screened concrete—eco-friendly choice for sub-base layers and temporary access roads.
Density ≈ 1450 kg/m³
Decomposed Granite
Weathered granite fines that compact into a firm surface—perfect for patios, trails, and xeriscapes.
Density ≈ 1750 kg/m³
Real World Applications
Landscaping & Paths
Garden walkways & stepping-stone beds
Zen or rock gardens
Fire-pit seating rings
Decorative borders & flower beds
Pergola or gazebo floors
Driveways & Vehicle Areas
Straight, curved, or circular driveways
Parking pads & RV spots
Farm-lane or tractor access roads
Boat & trailer storage bays
Snow-melt gravel turnarounds
Drainage & Foundations
French drains & curtain drains
Trench backfill & utility lines
Perimeter foundation drainage
Retaining-wall base & backfill
Erosion control on slopes
Recreation & Animals
Playground surfacing
Dog runs & kennels
Bocce & pétanque courts
Horse paddock drainage
Chicken-coop floor bedding
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about gravel calculations, project depths, and ordering the right amount of material
How do I calculate how much gravel I need?
Enter project length × width × depth, pick the unit you prefer, and the calculator
instantly returns volume and tonnage. No manual formulas or spreadsheets.
What depth should I use for different projects?
• Garden paths: ≈ 2 in (50 mm) of decorative gravel
• Driveways: 4 in surface over 4-6 in base
• French drains: trench filled to within 2 in of grade
• Planter beds: 1-1.5 in mulch layer to suppress weeds
Should I order extra to account for settling?
A 5 % contingency covers minor compaction and edge losses. The
calculator includes an “Add 5 % extra” toggle if you want to build it in automatically.
Can I mix metric and imperial units?
Keep length, width, and depth in the same system for accuracy. You can
switch the output between cubic yards, cubic metres, or tons with a single dropdown.
How accurate are the results?
The math is exact, but real-world deliveries vary with moisture and compaction.
Verify the bulk density your supplier provides and consider that 5 % margin for perfect coverage.