Gravel Calculator

About Gravel Use and Weight Estimation

Gravel is a versatile material used in construction, landscaping, and drainage applications. It’s essential for projects like driveways, walkways, foundations, and garden beds. This calculator helps estimate the amount of gravel required, its total weight, and approximate cost based on your project dimensions and material type.

Common Gravel Densities

• Pea Gravel – ~1600 kg/m³
• Crushed Stone – ~1700 kg/m³
• River Rock – ~1500 kg/m³
• Limestone – ~1550 kg/m³
• Granite – ~1680 kg/m³
• Slag – ~1850 kg/m³
• Recycled Concrete – ~1750 kg/m³

Coverage Guide (Approximate)

The table below shows how much area 1 cubic meter (or 1 cubic yard) of gravel covers at different depths.

Example Calculation

Suppose you have a driveway measuring 6 m long, 3 m wide, and 10 cm deep (0.1 m).
Volume = 6 × 3 × 0.1 = 1.8 m³
If you select crushed stone (density 1700 kg/m³), total weight = 1.8 × 1700 = 3060 kg (≈3.06 tons).

Conversion Reference

• 1 cubic meter (m³) of gravel ≈ 1.6–1.8 metric tons
• 1 cubic yard (yd³) ≈ 1.2–1.4 tons
• 1 ton of gravel ≈ 0.6–0.7 m³ (or 22–25 ft³)

Selecting the Right Gravel Type

• Pea Gravel: Ideal for landscaping, garden beds, and walkways.
• Crushed Stone: Best for road base, driveways, and foundations.
• River Rock: Great for decorative and drainage applications.
• Limestone: Common in concrete and construction projects.
• Granite: Durable and weather-resistant for heavy-duty use.

Environmental & Cost Insights

Using locally sourced or recycled gravel reduces transportation costs and carbon emissions. Compare bulk prices from nearby suppliers to minimize expenses, and plan for a 5–10% surplus for leveling and compaction losses.

Usage Tips

• Always compact gravel in layers to prevent uneven settling.
• Use a landscaping fabric beneath gravel to block weed growth.
• Consider edge restraints for pathways to prevent gravel spread.