How to Use This 3/4 Gravel Calculator?
Enter the required inputs in the units of your convenience and the calculator will automatically calculate the total volume of gravel needed and the estimated weight of 3/4 gravel required based on typical density values. You can change the density value for customized calculation. This calculator is ideal for homeowners, contractors, and landscapers working on driveways, drainage systems, walkways, patios, or base layers for construction projects.
What Is 3/4 Gravel?
3/4 inch gravel is a crushed stone aggregate where the majority of particles are approximately 3/4 inch in diameter. It is typically angular in shape, which allows it to compact well and lock into place. Most commonly made from limestone, granite, or trap rock, 3/4 gravel is widely used in construction and landscaping due to its drainage properties and load-bearing capacity.
Depending on the supplier, this product may also be labeled as 3/4 clean stone, 3/4 crushed rock, or simply crushed stone #67, depending on the grading system used.
How Is It Different from #57 Gravel?
| Property | #57 Gravel | 3/4 Inch Gravel |
|---|---|---|
| Size Range | About 0.5" to 1" (typically 3/4" average) | Exactly 3/4" nominal size |
| Shape | Angular | Angular |
| Material Type | Crushed stone (granite, limestone, or trap rock) | Crushed stone (same as #57 gravel) |
| Common Uses | Driveways, drainage, concrete mix, French drains | Driveways, base for pavers, road base |
| Drainage Capability | Excellent (due to varied particle sizes) | Excellent |
| Compaction | Moderate (not ideal for compaction) | Good compaction when used with fines |
| Construction Use | Backfill, pipe bedding, concrete aggregate | Road base, foundation fill, trench backfill |
| Landscaping Use | Decorative beds, erosion control | Base material under hardscape, gravel paths |
| DOT/Highway Use | Widely accepted in DOT projects | Also used but depends on exact grading specs |
| Price (typically) | Slightly higher due to grading standards | Often similar in price; varies by region |
| Grading Standard | Follows ASTM C33 or AASHTO M43 (typically) | May or may not follow a specific standard |
| Availability | Common and standardized | Widely available but naming may vary regionally |
What Are the Uses of 3/4 Gravel?
3/4 gravel is widely used in construction, landscaping, and infrastructure. Common uses include:
- Driveway topping for stability and drainage
- Base layer for patios, pavers, and concrete slabs
- French drains and other subsurface drainage systems
- Backfill around foundations, posts, or retaining walls
- Road and highway base material
- Erosion control in sloped areas or near downspouts
- Decorative ground cover in low-traffic landscape areas
Its angular structure allows excellent interlocking and makes it suitable for both load-bearing and drainage applications.
Densities of 3/4 Gravel
The density of 3/4 gravel can vary slightly depending on material and moisture content. Here is a useful reference table:
| Material Type | Density (lb/ft³) | Density (kg/m³) |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Crushed Limestone | 96 – 104 | 1,540 – 1,670 |
| Washed Granite Gravel | 100 – 110 | 1,600 – 1,760 |
| Moist Crushed Stone | 105 – 120 | 1,680 – 1,920 |
Note: For calculator purposes, 100 lb/ft³ (1,600 kg/m³) is commonly used as an average.
Where Not to Use 3/4 Gravel
Despite its versatility, 3/4 gravel is not ideal in every situation:
- Not suitable as a finish layer for high-traffic pedestrian paths (can be uncomfortable to walk on)
- Avoid using in playgrounds or recreational surfaces where cushioning is needed
- Poor choice for tight compaction needs (such as under asphalt or fine grading) unless mixed with smaller fines
- Not suitable for mortar mix – use sand and specific aggregate types instead
Always consider the project requirement, compaction need, and comfort level before choosing 3/4 gravel.
FAQs About 3/4 Gravel
Is 3/4 gravel the same as crushed stone?
Yes, it is a type of crushed stone, typically crushed from natural rock into angular pieces. It’s commonly used in the same applications as other crushed aggregates.
Can I use 3/4 gravel for drainage?
Absolutely. It’s one of the best options for drainage due to its size and shape, especially when used in French drains, under concrete slabs, or around foundations.
How many tons of 3/4 gravel do I need for a driveway?
Use the calculator above for precise results. On average, 1 ton of 3/4 gravel covers approximately 100 square feet at a depth of 2 inches.
Does 3/4 gravel compact well?
It offers moderate compaction. For tighter or more solid surfaces, you can combine it with crusher fines or compacted road base underneath.
Is 3/4 gravel safe for pets or kids?
It’s not ideal for play areas. The angular stones can be uncomfortable and may cause minor scrapes or injuries. Rounded gravel like pea gravel is a better option for those settings.
Does 3/4 gravel need a weed barrier underneath?
Yes, especially for landscape beds, walkways, or decorative applications. A weed fabric beneath the gravel prevents unwanted plant growth while still allowing water drainage.