How Many Yards of Gravel I Need?

Publish on: 16-Jan-2026

Gravel is a versatile material used for driveways, walkways, patios, drainage solutions, and landscaping. Whether you're working on a small DIY project or a larger construction job, knowing how much gravel to order is crucial. Buying too little means delays, while buying too much wastes money.

In this guide, we’ll break down the exact steps to calculate the amount of gravel you need in cubic yards, with practical examples for different scenarios.

Why Measure in Cubic Yards?

Gravel is typically sold by the cubic yard (1 yard = 3 feet). A cubic yard covers:

Measuring in cubic yards ensures you get the right amount from suppliers.

Calculate How Many Yards of Gravel Need

Step 1: Measure the Area

First, measure the length and width of the area in feet. If the area is irregular, break it into smaller rectangular sections.

For a rectangular area:

Length (L) = Distance in feet
Width (W) = Distance in feet

Step 2: Determine the Depth

Decide how deep you want the gravel layer to be (in inches). Common depths:

Driveways: 4-6 inches
Pathways: 2-3 inches
Landscaping: 1-2 inches

Convert the depth from inches to feet by dividing by 12:

$Depth (ft) = \frac{Depth (inches)}{12}$

Step 3: Calculate Volume in Cubic Yards

The formula to find cubic yards is:

$Cubic Yards = \frac{Length (ft) \times Width (ft) \times Depth (ft)}{27}$

(27 cubic feet = 1 cubic yard)

Special Cases:

1. Circular Areas (for ponds, fire pits, etc.)

Use the formula for the area of a circle:

$Area = π \times (Radius)^{2}$

Then calculate cubic yards:

$Cubic Yards = \frac{Area \times Depth (ft)}{27}$

2. Triangular Areas (for garden beds, etc.)

Use the formula for the area of a triangle:

$Area = \frac{1}{2} \times Base \times Height$

Then calculate cubic yards:

$Cubic Yards = \frac{Area \times Depth (ft)}{27}$

Step 4: Adjust for Compaction and Waste

Gravel settles over time, so it’s wise to order 10–20% extra.

$Total Gravel Needed = Cubic Yards \times 1.1 (or 1.2)$

Example Calculations

Example 1: Gravel for a Driveway

Dimensions: 30 ft (length) × 12 ft (width)
Depth: 5 inches

Calculations:

Convert depth to feet: $5 \div 12 \approx 0.42 ft$
Calculate volume: $30 \times 12 \times 0.42 = 151.2 cubic ft$
Convert to yards: $151.2 \div 27 \approx 5.6 cubic yards$
Add 10% extra: $5.6 \times 1.1 \approx 6.16 cubic yards$

Order 6.5 cubic yards of gravel.

Example 2: Gravel for a Circular Fire Pit

Diameter: 8 ft → Radius = 4 ft
Depth: 3 inches

Calculations:

Convert depth to feet: $3 \div 12 = 0.25 ft$
Calculate area: $3.14 \times (4)^{2} \approx 50.24 sq. ft$
Calculate volume: $50.24 \times 0.25 = 12.56 cubic ft$
Convert to yards: $12.56 \div 27 \approx 0.47 cubic yards$
Round up to 0.5 cubic yards.

Example 3: Gravel for an Irregular-Shaped Garden

Break the area into two rectangles:

Section 1: 10 ft × 8 ft
Section 2: 6 ft × 4 ft
Depth: 2 inches

Calculations:

Convert depth to feet: $2 \div 12 \approx 0.167 ft$
Calculate volume for Section 1: $10 \times 8 \times 0.167 = 13.36 cubic ft$
Calculate volume for Section 2: $6 \times 4 \times 0.167 \approx 4 cubic ft$
Total volume: $13.36 + 4 = 17.36 cubic ft$
Convert to yards: $17.36 \div 27 \approx 0.64 cubic yards$
Order 0.75 cubic yards (rounding up).

Conclusion

Knowing how to calculate how many yards of gravel you need is a vital step in planning any outdoor or landscaping project. By understanding the simple formula—Length × Width × Depth ÷ 27—you can avoid wasting time, money, and materials. We’ve covered everything from basic math to real-life examples, types of gravel, and even visual guides.

Whether you're building a driveway, laying a path, or filling a foundation, accurate calculations will ensure your project goes smoothly. Just remember to double-check your measurements, consider gravel type and depth, and always round up a bit to cover your bases.

FAQs

1. How much does 1 yard of gravel cover?

One cubic yard of gravel typically covers about 81 square feet at 4 inches deep. Use the gravel coverage chart for other depths.

2. Can I use gravel calculators for irregular-shaped areas?

Yes, but break the area into smaller rectangles, calculate each section, and then add them together for a more accurate estimate.

3. How do I convert gravel volume to tons?

On average, 1 cubic yard of gravel weighs between 1.2 to 1.5 tons depending on moisture and type. Multiply your cubic yards by 1.4 to get a rough estimate in tons.

4. What type of gravel should I use for a driveway?

Crushed stone (#57 gravel) is ideal for driveways due to its angular shape and durability. It locks together better than rounded stone like pea gravel.

5. Is gravel calculation different for sloped areas?

Yes. Sloped or uneven surfaces may require more gravel to maintain even depth throughout. Measure carefully and consider adding 10–15% extra.

How Many Yards of Gravel I Need?

Calculate How Many Yards of Gravel Need

Step 1: Measure the Area

Step 2: Determine the Depth

Step 3: Calculate Volume in Cubic Yards

Special Cases:

Step 4: Adjust for Compaction and Waste

Example Calculations

Example 1: Gravel for a Driveway

Example 2: Gravel for a Circular Fire Pit

Example 3: Gravel for an Irregular-Shaped Garden

Conclusion

FAQs

1. How much does 1 yard of gravel cover?

2. Can I use gravel calculators for irregular-shaped areas?

3. How do I convert gravel volume to tons?

4. What type of gravel should I use for a driveway?

5. Is gravel calculation different for sloped areas?

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