Estimate the cubic yards and tons of gravel, crushed stone or sand needed to cover an area to a given depth.
Weight
Same volume, different materials
Volume
Cost
Show the working
Volume = area × depth = 0.926 yd³
Weight = volume × density = 2625 lb = 1.313 US tons
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Formula
Volume = area × depthWeight = volume × density1 US ton = 2,000 lb; 1 yd³ = 27 ft³
How it works
Quarries sell gravel by weight but you design by volume, so the calculation has two steps: area × depth gives the volume, and volume × density gives the weight. At about 105 lb/ft³, a cubic yard of gravel weighs roughly 2,800 lb, or 1.4 US tons.
Density depends on the stone and how wet it is. Washed, uniform pea gravel packs less tightly than crushed stone with fines (such as #57 or crusher run), and wet material is heavier. Ask your supplier for their figure if you need an exact order.
For driveways, plan 4–6 inches of compacted base under a 2–3 inch top layer; for walkways and patios, 2–3 inches over landscape fabric is typical. Compaction reduces depth by about 10%, so add that margin when ordering for a compacted base.
Frequently asked questions
How many tons are in a cubic yard of gravel?
Usually 1.3–1.5 US tons, depending on the stone size and moisture. 1.4 is a good planning number.
What is the difference between a ton and a tonne?
A US (short) ton is 2,000 lb (907 kg); a metric tonne is 1,000 kg (2,205 lb). Switch the output unit to match your supplier.