Gravel Driveway Calculator
This gravel driveway calculator finds how much gravel a driveway needs for a base layer and a top layer. Enter the driveway length and width, the depth of each layer, and the gravel density, and the gravel driveway calculator returns the total tonnes and cubic yards, the tonnes for each layer, and an optional cost.
Results
The Gravel Driveway Calculator is part of our Materials Estimating collection. Browse more materials estimating to size, convert, and check your work alongside this tool.
What the gravel driveway calculator shows
A durable gravel driveway is built in layers: a coarse base that carries the load and drains, and a finer top layer that drives smoothly. The gravel driveway calculator works out each layer separately, because the stone and depth often differ, then adds them for the total order in tonnes and cubic yards.
Figuring gravel for driveway layers
Each layer is calculated on its own and then added. Crushed stone usually weighs about 1.5 to 1.7 tonnes per cubic metre; ask your supplier for the exact density. Cubic metres convert to cubic yards by multiplying by 1.308.
Gravel driveway calculator example
A driveway 20 m long and 3 m wide with a 100 mm base and a 50 mm top layer, at 1.6 t/m³:
At 40 per tonne, the gravel costs about 576.
How to use the gravel estimator for driveway layers
Enter the driveway length and width, the base layer depth, the top layer depth, and the gravel density. Add a price per tonne if you want a cost. The gravel estimator for driveway layers returns the total tonnes, total cubic yards, the tonnes in each layer, and the cost. A base of about 100 to 150 mm and a top of about 50 mm suits most home driveways.
Reading how many tons of gravel for a driveway
Order each layer as a separate product if the stone differs. Gravel compacts as it is rolled, so add about 10 percent if you will compact heavily. Edging along the sides keeps the stone from spreading and keeps the depth even.
When figuring gravel for driveway work
- Building a new gravel driveway with the gravel driveway calculator
- Pricing the job with a gravel driveway cost calculator
- Topping up a worn driveway with a fresh top layer
- Planning a gravel pad or farm road
Common gravel driveway calculator mistakes
- Skipping the base layer. Top stone alone ruts quickly.
- Ignoring compaction. Add about 10 percent.
- No edging. Stone spreads and thins at the sides.
Tips for accurate results
- Ask the supplier for the exact density.
- Crown the surface so water runs off.
- Order both layers in one delivery.
How much stone for a driveway base
The base layer does the structural work, so it uses larger, angular stone that locks together and drains water. On soft or clay soil, a thicker base, or a geotextile fabric under it, stops the stone sinking into the ground. Excavating the topsoil first gives the base a firm footing, and the excavation calculator finds how much soil comes out. The top layer is thinner and finer for a smoother surface.
Gravel driveway cost calculator tips
Delivery is often charged per load, so ordering both layers together can save money. Prices per tonne vary by stone type and distance from the quarry; use the local price in the cost field.
Gravel needed for driveway reference (150 mm total depth)
| Driveway | Tonnes | Cubic yards |
|---|---|---|
| 10 × 3 m | 7.2 | 5.89 |
| 20 × 3 m | 14.4 | 11.77 |
| 30 × 3.5 m | 25.2 | 20.6 |
| 50 × 4 m | 48.0 | 39.24 |
At 1.6 t/m³, before compaction.
Gravel Driveway Calculator FAQ
How much gravel do I need for my driveway?
Multiply length × width × depth for each layer, then multiply by the gravel density for tonnes.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
About 100 to 150 mm of base and 50 mm of top stone for cars; more for heavy vehicles or soft ground.
How many tons of gravel per cubic yard?
About 1.2 to 1.4 short tons, depending on the stone.
Should I use the same gravel for both layers?
Usually not: a coarse, angular base and a finer top layer work best.