Quick Takeaway
To calculate gravel weight: Area (Length × Width in feet) × Depth (in inches) ÷ 324 = Cubic Yards. Then multiply Cubic Yards by the material density (e.g. ~1.35 for gravel) to get US Tons. A typical 2-inch driveway layer covers 162 sq ft per cubic yard.
How to Estimate Gravel, Dirt, and Topsoil Needs
Different aggregates and earth materials have varying bulk densities due to moisture content, compaction, and grain size. For driveway foundations, crushed stone aggregates lock together, while rounded pea gravel is ideal for pathways and decorative borders.
Standard Material Density & Coverage Reference
| Material | Density (US) | Density (Metric) | Best Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel | 2,700 lbs/yd³ (1.35 tons/yd³) | 1.60 tonnes/m³ | Walkways, drainage, decorative borders |
| Crushed Stone #57 | 2,600 lbs/yd³ (1.30 tons/yd³) | 1.55 tonnes/m³ | Driveway base, concrete aggregate, french drains |
| Screened Topsoil | 2,200 lbs/yd³ (1.10 tons/yd³) | 1.30 tonnes/m³ | Lawns, flower beds, seed leveling |
| Fill Dirt | 2,500 lbs/yd³ (1.25 tons/yd³) | 1.45 tonnes/m³ | Grading, filling sinkholes, subgrade leveling |
| Mason Sand | 2,700 lbs/yd³ (1.35 tons/yd³) | 1.60 tonnes/m³ | Paver bedding, sandboxes, mortar mixes |
| Compost | 1,000 lbs/yd³ (0.50 tons/yd³) | 0.60 tonnes/m³ | Soil enrichment and vegetable gardens |