Structures
Gravel and Path Calculator
Convert path length, width, and depth into tons or cubic yards of gravel, base, and edging needed.
Gravel needed
Order 5-10% extra to cover compaction settling and uneven subgrade.
Getting the layers right, not just the volume
A gravel path or driveway that lasts isn't just a pile of stone spread over dirt — it's a layered system, and getting the layer depths right matters as much as getting the total volume right. Skimp on the base layer and the surface gravel will sink into soft subgrade within a season; skip landscape fabric and weeds will push through within a year. Calculating how much material to buy starts with deciding on the right total depth for your project, then converting that footprint and depth into tons or cubic yards you can actually order.
Depth recommendations by project type
| Project | Base layer | Surface layer | Total depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garden walking path | 2-3 in compacted base | 1-2 in decorative gravel | 3-5 in |
| Backyard patio path | 3-4 in compacted base | 2 in decorative gravel | 5-6 in |
| Driveway (light vehicle) | 4-6 in compacted road base | 2 in surface gravel | 6-8 in |
| Driveway (heavy use) | 6-8 in compacted road base | 2-3 in surface gravel | 8-11 in |
Why base material and surface gravel are different products
Compacted base material — often labeled road base, crusher run, or Class II base — is a mix of angular crushed stone and stone dust that locks together tightly when compacted, forming a stable, load-bearing layer. Decorative surface gravel, like pea gravel or river rock, is rounded and doesn't compact or interlock the same way, so it's meant to sit on top of a stable base rather than serve as the structural layer itself. Using only decorative gravel without a proper base is a common mistake that leads to ruts, sinking, and gravel migrating into the surrounding soil.
Converting area and depth into tons
Once you know your path's length, width, and target depth, multiply them together (after converting depth to feet) to get cubic feet, divide by 27 to get cubic yards, then multiply by your material's density — typically around 1.4 to 1.5 tons per cubic yard for standard crushed gravel — to get the tonnage most gravel suppliers price and deliver by.
Edging matters as much as depth
- Steel or plastic landscape edging keeps gravel from migrating into lawn or beds over time.
- Landscape fabric under the base layer prevents weeds and stops the base from sinking into soft soil.
- A slight crown or slope (1-2%) across a path sheds water instead of pooling in the middle.
- Compact each layer separately with a plate compactor rather than dumping everything at once and compacting only the top.
Choosing gravel size and type
Smaller, rounded gravel like pea gravel (3/8 inch) feels comfortable underfoot but shifts more easily and isn't ideal for wheelchairs, strollers, or wheelbarrows. Angular crushed gravel in the 3/8 to 3/4 inch range compacts and stays put better, making it a common choice for paths that see foot traffic or occasional cart use. Driveways typically use larger, angular stone (3/4 to 1.5 inch) in the surface layer for better load distribution and drainage.
How deep should a gravel path be?
A pedestrian path typically needs 2-3 inches of decorative gravel over a 3-4 inch compacted base layer, for about 5-7 inches total. Driveways need considerably more, often 4-6 inches of base plus surface gravel, to handle vehicle weight without rutting.
Why do I need a separate base layer under decorative gravel?
A compacted base of angular crushed stone (often called road base or Class II base) interlocks and resists shifting under foot or vehicle traffic, while the decorative surface layer (like pea gravel or river rock) is rounded and would sink or scatter without a stable base beneath it.
How much does gravel weigh per cubic yard?
Most gravel and crushed stone weighs approximately 1.4 to 1.5 tons per cubic yard, though it varies by material — denser stones like granite run heavier, and lighter materials like lava rock or pea gravel run somewhat lighter.
Should I use landscape fabric under gravel paths?
Yes, in most cases — landscape fabric between the soil and base layer suppresses weed growth and prevents the base material from working its way down into the soil over time, which keeps the path stable and reduces long-term maintenance.
Last reviewed February 2026