Pea Gravel
Pea gravel consists of small, rounded stones (1/8” to 3/8”) that create a smooth, decorative surface. Ideal for garden paths, patios, and play areas, it’s comfortable to walk on but less suited for heavy traffic.
Gravel Calculator
Enter your project dimensions and gravel type to calculate volume and weight.
Types of Gravel for Your Project
Selecting the right gravel is key to balancing aesthetics, durability, and function. Here are the most common types:
Crushed Stone
Crushed stone, made by crushing larger rocks, offers angular pieces for stability. Perfect for driveways, roads, and foundations, it comes in sizes like #57 (3/4”) and #2 (1-2”).
River Rock
River rock features smooth stones (1” to 3”) from riverbeds, used in garden beds, water features, or as mulch for a natural aesthetic.
Bank Gravel
Bank gravel, a mix of sand, clay, and gravel, is cost-effective for drainage, backfill, or construction bases.
For more details, explore gravel types and uses on Wikipedia.
How to Calculate Gravel Needs
Accurate calculations save time and money. The formula is:
Volume (cubic feet) = Length (feet) × Width (feet) × Depth (feet)
Convert depth from inches to feet (divide by 12), then convert volume to cubic yards (divide by 27). For weight, multiply cubic yards by the gravel’s density.
| Gravel Type | Density (tons/cubic yard) |
|---|---|
| Pea Gravel | 1.3 |
| Crushed Stone | 1.5 |
| River Rock | 1.3 |
| Bank Gravel | 1.4 |
Example: For a 15ft × 10ft driveway with a 4-inch depth of crushed stone:
- Volume = 15 × 10 × (4/12) = 50 cubic feet
- Cubic Yards = 50 / 27 ≈ 1.85 cubic yards
- Weight = 1.85 × 1.5 ≈ 2.78 tons
Considerations:
- Depth: Driveways need 4-6 inches; paths need 2-3 inches.
- Compaction: Order 10-20% extra for settling (up to 30%).
- Irregular Shapes: Divide into rectangles and sum volumes.
Gravel Applications
Gravel is versatile for various projects:
- Driveways: Crushed stone (4-6 inches) ensures durability for vehicles.
- Garden Paths: Pea gravel or river rock (2-3 inches) creates walkable, attractive paths.
- Drainage: Bank gravel or crushed stone supports water flow in drains.
- Landscaping: Pea gravel and river rock enhance garden beds and water features.
Benefits of Gravel Calculators
Manual calculations are complex, especially for irregular shapes. Online calculators provide instant, accurate results, saving time and reducing errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much gravel is needed for a driveway?
Driveways require 4-6 inches of crushed stone. Use our calculator for precise estimates.
What’s the best gravel for landscaping?
Pea gravel and river rock are ideal for their smooth, aesthetic appeal.
How do I account for compaction?
Gravel settles up to 30%; order 10-20% extra.
How do I calculate for irregular shapes?
Divide the area into rectangles, calculate each volume, and sum them.
How do I convert cubic yards to tons?
Multiply cubic yards by the gravel’s density (e.g., 1.5 tons/cubic yard for crushed stone).
Tips for Gravel Projects
Ensure success with these tips:
- Measure Accurately: Double-check dimensions.
- Choose Wisely: Match gravel type to project needs.
- Prepare Site: Clear debris and level ground.
- Add Base Layer: Use larger gravel for driveway stability.
- Plan Delivery: Ensure access for trucks.