How to use it
- Enter length (ft), width (ft) and depth (in).
- Click the Calculate button.
- View cubic feet, cubic yards and ton estimate.
What it does – You input the rectangular area (length × width) and how deep you’ll spread the gravel. The tool converts the dimensions to cubic feet, then to cubic yards (27 ft³ per yd³), and finally multiplies by 1.4 tons per cubic yard to give a weight estimate.
Why it matters – Knowing cubic yards avoids ordering too little (delays) or too much (extra cost). The ton figure helps you compare material prices that are listed by weight.
How to read – Cubic feet is the raw volume, cubic yards is what suppliers charge, and tons is the approximate weight for budgeting transport. If your depth is in inches, the calculator automatically converts it to feet before multiplying. You can also round up to the nearest half‑yard to account for compaction and spillage.
Pro tips
- Add 5‑10% waste allowance to cover compaction and spillage.
- Round up to the next whole yard for delivery to avoid short‑falls.
- Check your supplier’s ton‑per‑yard conversion; most use 1.4 tons per cubic yard.
- Measure depth in inches, not feet, to prevent unit errors.
Real-life examples
- Homeowner planning a new driveway needs exact gravel volume.
- Landscaper estimating material for a garden path.
- DIYer ordering gravel for a patio base and wants weight for truck rental.
Case study
Jane wanted a 12 ft × 20 ft patio 4 in deep. Using the calculator she saw she needed 2.96 cubic yards, about 4.1 tons. She ordered 3 yards, saved $150 on excess material, and completed the patio on schedule.