Gravel planning guide

How Much Gravel Do I Need?

Gravel volume is determined by area and compacted depth. The chart shows net cubic yards and uses 1.4 tons per cubic yard only as a rough weight conversion; actual density varies by aggregate and moisture.

Gravel cubic yards by area

Area2 in deep3 in deep4 in deep
50 ft²0.31 yd³0.46 yd³0.62 yd³
100 ft²0.62 yd³0.93 yd³1.23 yd³
150 ft²0.93 yd³1.39 yd³1.85 yd³
200 ft²1.23 yd³1.85 yd³2.47 yd³
250 ft²1.54 yd³2.31 yd³3.09 yd³
300 ft²1.85 yd³2.78 yd³3.70 yd³
400 ft²2.47 yd³3.70 yd³4.94 yd³
500 ft²3.09 yd³4.63 yd³6.17 yd³
750 ft²4.63 yd³6.94 yd³9.26 yd³
1000 ft²6.17 yd³9.26 yd³12.35 yd³

Example: 500 ft² at 3 inches

At 3 inches deep, 500 ft² requires about 4.63 cubic yards of net gravel. Using a rough 1.4-ton-per-yard conversion, that is approximately 6.48 tons before extra material. Ask the supplier for the actual density of the aggregate being purchased.

Calculate your exact gravel order

Enter dimensions, depth and extra material to compare cubic feet, cubic yards, approximate tons and bag equivalents.

Open Gravel Calculator →

Pea gravel, river rock, paver base and soil tools are available in the Landscaping Planning Hub.