Landscaping calculator

Gravel calculator

Bulk gravel volume, estimated weight, and a visible delivery allowance.

Calculator result and formula

Bulk gravel order: 1.3 yd³

Formula: Area length × width × depth ÷ 27 × (1 + waste)

Formula ID: LAND-GRAVEL-001 · Version 1.0.0.

Inputs

  • Area length: Finished gravel area length Default: 12.
  • Area width: Average finished gravel area width Default: 10.
  • Installed depth: Compacted gravel depth Default: 3.
  • Supplier density: Tons per cubic yard; confirm material-specific density Default: 1.35.
  • Waste factor: Allowance for compaction, irregular edges, and site conditions Default: 10.

How this calculator works

This calculator converts a rectangular gravel area and compacted depth into bulk volume, then applies a documented allowance before delivery rounding and density-based weight estimation.

  1. Measure the finished gravel length, average width and compacted installed depth.
  2. Enter the supplier's density in tons per cubic yard for the selected material.
  3. Use the rounded volume and estimated weight as a starting point for a supplier quote and delivery discussion.

Worked example: Example: a 12 ft × 10 ft area at 3 in depth holds about 1.11 yd³ before waste. With 10% allowance, the bulk order rounds to 1.3 yd³; at 1.35 tons/yd³, that is about 1.76 tons.

Assumptions and limitations

  • Gravel area is treated as rectangular using average width.
  • The entered density is a supplier-specific planning input in tons per cubic yard.
  • Bulk volume is rounded up to the next 0.1 yd³ after allowance.

Common questions

Why does gravel weight vary?
Weight changes with material type, moisture, compaction and source. Confirm the supplier's current density before ordering.
Does this design a base course?
No. Confirm depth, drainage, geotextile, compaction and local project requirements independently.

Reference notes

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