How to use it
- Enter length in feet.
- Enter width in feet.
- Enter depth in inches.
- Read cubic yards, cubic feet, and tons.
What it does – The French Drain Gravel Calculator turns the dimensions of your trench (length, width, depth) into three practical measures: cubic feet, cubic yards, and estimated tons of gravel. Knowing the volume in cubic yards lets you order material in the units suppliers use, while the ton estimate helps you budget for delivery weight limits. The tool uses the standard conversion of 27 ft³ per yard³ and assumes gravel weighs 1.4 tons per yard³, so the ton figure is a close approximation. After you input the three numbers, the results appear instantly. Read the cubic yards for ordering, the cubic feet for on‑site verification, and the ton estimate for logistics planning. You can also compare multiple designs by changing one dimension at a time, letting you optimize material use and cost before any digging begins.
Pro tips
- Add 5‑10% extra for compaction and spillage.
- Round up to the nearest whole yard for ordering simplicity.
- Order by weight if the supplier quotes tons; use 1.4 tons per yard³ as a guide.
- Double‑check depth conversion from inches to feet before entering data.
Real-life examples
- Homeowner installing a new French drain around a basement wall.
- Landscaper estimating gravel for a garden drainage project.
- DIYer planning a backyard slope correction with a trench drain.
Case study
Mike needed a 12‑ft long, 4‑ft wide French drain 18 in deep. Using the calculator he saw he required 2.0 yd³ (≈2.8 tons) of gravel, ordered exactly that amount, and avoided a $150 over‑order.