How the math works
Area = length (ft) × width (ft)Volume (cu ft) = area × depth (in) ÷ 12Add waste: × 1.10Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27Bags = cubic feet ÷ bag yield (0.5 cu ft bag (~50 lb) = 0.5 cu ft) — always round upWeight = cubic yards × 2,800 lb/yd³
Trade pro tips
- Build in layers: 4" of #3 (2"–3") stone, 4" of #57, then 2" of crusher run / dense grade on top.
- Lay non-woven geotextile over clay soil first — it stops stone from sinking.
- Crown the driveway ½" per foot so water sheds to the sides.
- Spread with a box blade and compact each layer before the next.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
A new driveway needs 8"–12" total in layers (4" large stone, 4" #57, 2" crusher run). A refresh of an existing driveway needs only 2"–4" of top stone.
How much does a cubic yard of gravel weigh?
About 1.4 tons (2,800 lbs) for crushed stone. Pea gravel and river rock run 1.3–1.5 tons per yd³.
How many square feet does a ton of gravel cover?
At 4" deep, one ton of crushed stone covers about 58 sq ft; at 2" about 116 sq ft.
Do I need landscape fabric under a gravel driveway?
On clay or soft soil, yes — a non-woven geotextile keeps the stone from pumping into the mud and can halve the stone you need over time.