How the gravel estimate works
Add the areas of all sections using the same gravel and layer depth. The calculator finds geometric volume, adds only the allowance you enter, then rounds each supplier order up to its minimum and increment. Calculate base and surface layers separately if they use different materials or depths.
Example: a 20 × 10 ft path
At 3 in deep, 200 ft² needs 50 ft³, or about 1.85 yd³, before any extra allowance. If your supplier confirms a density of 1.4 short tons/yd³ for that product, the weight estimate is about 2.59 short tons. A supplier selling half-yard increments would quote 2 yd³ before any minimum order.
Check the quote before buying
Gravel density varies by material and condition; the example density is an illustration, not a default for your project. Confirm the product, placed depth, density, minimum order, delivery, and any taxes with the supplier. This estimate does not predict compaction or guarantee delivered yield.
Read how cubic yards become short tons or review our volume and rounding method.