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RealEstateTools

Uniform worksheet · Home Improvement

Form RET-212 · Effective August 2026 · Borrower’s copy

Gravel Calculator

Calculate gravel, rock, or sand needed for driveways or landscaping.

Area Dimensions

Material

Volume

0 cu yd

Tons (approx)

0 tons

Estimated Cost

$0

How to Use This Gravel Calculator

See Methodology

Our free gravel calculator determines exactly how many cubic yards of gravel, rock, or sand you need. Enter your area dimensions and desired depth for an instant estimate.

Gravel is sold by the cubic yard. One cubic yard covers 324 sq ft at 1 inch, 162 at 2 inches, or 108 at 3 inches.

Common types: pea gravel ($30-$50/yard), crushed stone ($25-$45/yard), river rock ($30-$60/yard).

Base preparation is essential for a long-lasting gravel surface. Before adding any gravel, excavate the area to the required depth and compact the subgrade soil with a plate compactor. Lay geotextile fabric over the compacted soil to prevent gravel from sinking into the subgrade — this is especially important for driveways and walkways on clay or soft soil. The fabric costs $0.15-$0.50 per sq ft but dramatically extends the life of your gravel surface.

Depth by application varies significantly. Driveways need 6-9 inches total: 4-6 inches of compacted crushed stone base plus 2-3 inches of finishing gravel. Walkways and patios require 4-6 inches, with 3-4 inches of base and 1-2 inches of top layer. Drainage applications (French drains, dry wells) typically need 8-12 inches of clean, uniform gravel to allow water flow. Garden paths may need only 2-3 inches over a compacted base.

Edge restraints prevent gravel from migrating outward over time. Use steel or aluminum edging, pressure-treated lumber, or concrete pavers as borders. For driveways, a 6-inch deep trench with compacted stone on each side helps contain the gravel. Without edge restraints, gravel surfaces will spread and thin out within a year, requiring frequent replenishment.

Seasonal maintenance keeps gravel performing well. Rake the surface annually to redistribute gravel that has migrated, add 1-2 inches of fresh gravel every 2-3 years to compensate for loss and compaction, and fill any potholes or low spots promptly to prevent water pooling. In freeze-thaw climates, add a fresh layer of crushed stone before winter to maintain a smooth driving surface.

When comparing to alternatives, gravel is the most affordable hardscape option: concrete costs $6-$15/sq ft installed, pavers run $8-$20/sq ft, and asphalt is $3-$7/sq ft. Gravel ($1-$3/sq ft) offers excellent drainage, is easy to repair, and can be installed as a DIY project with just a plate compactor rental. However, it requires more ongoing maintenance than permanent surfaces and may not suit formal landscape designs.

Related Topics

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Frequently Asked Questions about Gravel and Landscaping Materials

  • How do I calculate how much gravel I need for a driveway?

    Measure length × width × depth (all in feet) and divide by 27 to get cubic yards. For example, a 12×50-foot driveway at 4 inches (0.33 ft) deep requires about 7.4 cubic yards. Our calculator does this conversion automatically — just enter your dimensions and desired depth, and it also estimates the weight in tons for delivery purposes.

  • What is the best gravel size for a driveway?

    Use ¾-inch crushed stone as your base layer for maximum compaction and stability, then top it with ⅜-inch pea gravel or crushed limestone for a smooth driving surface. Avoid round river rock for driveways — it shifts and rolls under vehicle weight. For high-traffic areas, consider a geotextile fabric beneath the base layer to prevent gravel from mixing with the subsoil.

  • How much does a cubic yard of gravel cost?

    Pea gravel runs $30–$50 per cubic yard, crushed stone $25–$45, and river rock $30–$60. Delivery fees add $50–$150 depending on distance and order size. For larger projects, buying by the ton (roughly 1.4 tons per cubic yard for gravel) may be cheaper — crushed stone costs about $25–$40 per ton delivered.

  • How deep should gravel be for a driveway?

    A durable driveway needs 4–6 inches of crushed stone base compacted in 2-inch lifts, topped with 2–3 inches of finishing gravel for a total depth of 6–9 inches. Walkways and patios need only 4–6 inches total. Drainage applications typically require 6–12 inches depending on water flow volume. The subgrade should be compacted and graded before adding any gravel.

  • What is the difference between pea gravel and crushed stone?

    Pea gravel consists of smooth, rounded stones that feel comfortable underfoot but tend to shift and scatter, requiring periodic raking and edging to contain. Crushed stone has angular, jagged edges that interlock when compacted, creating a firm and stable surface ideal for driveways and high-traffic areas. Crushed stone also compacts better and resists displacement from vehicle tires and foot traffic.

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