Calculator 08 / 08
Gravel driveway calculator
A driveway is usually built in layers of different stone. Set the plan once, then the base and surface separately — you get a quantity for each and a combined order.
- Outputs
- Two layers · yd³ · tons · cost
- Material basis
- Crushed stone · 105 lb/ft³ default, editable
- Method
- Formulas & sources
Why two layers
Gravel driveways are usually built with a coarse base that spreads the load and a finer surface that drives well. One supplier's published guidance for a light-use residential driveway is 4–6 in total: 2–3 in of large angular stone such as #2, then 2–3 in of smaller stone such as #57. It recommends 8 in or more for heavy use Port Aggregates. That is one supplier's guidance, not a standard; soil, drainage, climate and traffic all matter.
Each layer here has its own material, depth, density and compaction allowance. The plan area and waste allowance are shared, because both layers cover the same footprint.
Compaction allowance
Driveway stone is compacted, so the loose volume you order is more than the finished volume. A gravel-roads manual prepared for the Federal Highway Administration notes a “30% or greater reduction in volume” from ordinary compaction in many areas source; that corresponds to about 43% extra loose material. The 20% starting value in this calculator is a planning allowance, not a measured figure. Ask your supplier what they see for their product and change it.
Worked example: 60 ft single-car driveway
| Base | Surface | |
|---|---|---|
| Plan | 60 ft × 10 ft = 600 ft² | |
| Depth (compacted) | 3 in | 3 in |
| Volume | 150 ft³ | 150 ft³ |
| + Compaction 20% | 180 ft³ | 180 ft³ |
| + Waste 5% | 189 ft³ = 7.0 yd³ | 189 ft³ = 7.0 yd³ |
| Weight at 105 lb/ft³ | ≈ 9.92 tons | ≈ 9.92 tons |
| Order | 14.0 yd³ ≈ 19.85 US tons in total | |
For layer choice, drainage and cost, read the gravel driveway guide.
Questions
How much gravel do I need for a driveway?
Measure length × width, decide the compacted depth of each layer, and add a compaction allowance because loose stone packs down. The calculator works out each layer and gives a combined order in cubic yards and tons.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
One supplier's guidance is 4–6 in total for light residential use and 8 in or more for heavy use, built in layers. Local soil and drainage conditions matter, so treat that as a starting point.
Does this include excavation or fabric?
No. It estimates stone only. Digging out, geotextile, edging, culverts and delivery aren't included.