How much does 1 cubic yard of gravel weigh?

Gravel Calculator

Estimate gravel quantity in tons or cubic yards for driveways, pathways, landscaping, and drainage projects.

Length (feet)

Width (feet)

Depth (inches)2–3 in for pathways/resurfacing; 4–6 in for base.

Gravel Density (lb / cu ft)Standard crushed limestone is approx. 100–105 lb/cu ft.

Compaction & Waste Allowance (%)

SPEC_VERIFIED

Total Weight in US Tons

2.5tons

Total Volume in Cubic Yards

2.04cu yd

Detailed Material Breakdown

Calculates the volume of crushed stone or gravel in cubic yards and converts it to tons based on aggregate bulk density.

Tons = (Cubic Yards × 1.4 tons/cu yd) × (1 + Compaction %)

Calculate cubic feet = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × [Depth (in) ÷ 12]
Convert to cubic yards = Cubic Feet ÷ 27
Calculate weight in tons = Cubic Feet × Density (approx. 100–105 lb/cu ft) ÷ 2000 lb/ton
Add 10%–15% for compaction and sub-grade settling.

Note: 1 cubic yard of standard crushed stone (#57 or Crusher Run) weighs approximately 2,800 lbs (1.4 US tons).

Adding a 3-inch top dressing of #57 crushed limestone to an existing 50-foot driveway.

Dimensions:10 ft × 50 ft = 500 sq ft

Depth:3 inches

Waste/Compaction:10%

Calculation Steps:

Order 7.5 to 8 tons of crushed gravel.

Enter area length and width in feet or meters.
Enter gravel layer depth in inches or cm (driveway surface is typically 2–3 inches; base is 4–6 inches).
Set aggregate density (100 lb/cu ft is standard for crushed limestone/granite).

Not factoring in compaction: loose gravel compacts by 10% to 15% when rolled or driven on.
Using pea gravel for slopes or main driveways where stones shift under tires.