Driveways, paths, drainage, and rock
Cubic Yard Calculator for Gravel and Rock
Estimate gravel or rock in cubic yards and tons, with depth presets for driveways, paths, and drainage projects.
Calculate Gravel
Gravel Types and Their Uses
Pea gravel works well for decorative beds and low traffic paths. Crushed stone locks together for driveways and bases. River rock is heavier and often used for drainage channels or visible landscape areas.
Tons vs Cubic Yards
Gravel is often sold by ton because it is weighed at the yard. Cubic yards tell you how much volume will cover the ground, while tons help match supplier tickets and truck capacity.
Depth Guide by Project Type
| Project | Typical depth |
|---|---|
| Driveway top layer | 2 inches |
| Walkway | 3 inches |
| Drainage area | 4 inches or more |
Gravel Weight by Type
| Type | Approx. lbs per cubic yard |
|---|---|
| Pea gravel | 2,800 |
| Crushed stone | 2,800 |
| River rock | 4,500 |
| Decomposed granite | 2,800 |
FAQ
Measure length and width in feet, multiply by gravel depth in feet, then divide by 27. A 3 inch depth is 0.25 feet.
Using 2,800 lbs per cubic yard, gravel is about 1.40 tons per cubic yard. River rock and crushed stone can vary.
A light top layer may be 2 inches, but a full driveway base is usually deeper. Confirm the base design for vehicle traffic.
Pea gravel and crushed stone are close, but exact weight varies by rock type and moisture. Use supplier weights for hauling.
Many suppliers sell gravel by the ton. Use cubic yards for volume planning and tons for ordering when needed.
Order about 10 percent extra for compaction, uneven base, and spreading loss. Larger jobs may need a supplier review.
A 3 inch layer is common for a walkway surface over a prepared base. Drainage and soil conditions may require more.
Yes, select rock for heavier decorative stone or gravel for standard aggregate. Ask your supplier for exact density if available.
There are 27 cubic feet in 1 cubic yard. The calculator shows both values.
Yes. Angular gravel compacts more than rounded stone, so overage is useful for final grade.