Gravel Calculator .org

Conversion guide

Gravel density and weight

Understand bulk density, convert cubic yards to tons, and choose a realistic planning value for crushed stone, pea gravel, river rock, and road base.

Calculate yards and tons Read the density guide

Planning values

Gravel bulk density table

Use these rounded defaults for early planning only. Enter the supplier value for a purchase decision.

MaterialPlanning densityApprox. tons per yd³Common uses
Crushed stone100 lb/ft³1.35Driveways, drainage, base layers
Pea gravel106 lb/ft³1.43Paths, patios, decorative beds
River rock103 lb/ft³1.39Drainage features, borders, beds
Decomposed granite97 lb/ft³1.31Paths, patios, compacted surfaces
Road base119 lb/ft³1.60Load-bearing compacted base

What density means

Bulk density includes the spaces between stones

A gravel pile is not solid rock. Bulk density measures the combined mass of stone, moisture, fine particles, and the voids between particles inside a known volume. That is why two products made from the same rock can weigh different amounts per cubic yard.

Particle size and grading

A blend of large and small particles can fill voids more efficiently than one narrow size range. More material fits into the same volume, so bulk density can increase.

Particle shape

Angular particles interlock and arrange differently from rounded particles. Shape affects void space, compaction, and how the surface behaves under load.

Moisture and fines

Water adds weight. Fine particles can also hold moisture and fill voids. Ask whether the quoted density is dry, typical delivered, loose, or compacted.

Compaction state

A loose truckload and a compacted layer do not have the same bulk density. The calculator estimates delivered quantity from a planning density, while the project specification should define finished compacted thickness.

Ordering workflow

Use density without false precision

  1. Calculate geometric volume

    Measure area and finished depth, then convert the result to cubic yards or cubic meters.

  2. Apply product density

    Use the exact loose bulk density from the supplier when possible. Otherwise use a rounded planning value.

  3. Match supplier rounding

    Ask whether the order is rounded by weight, volume, truck size, or minimum load before finalizing quantity.

Quick answers

Gravel density questions

What density should I use for gravel?

Use the loose bulk density for the exact product being delivered. If that is unavailable, select the closest calculator preset for planning and confirm the estimate with the supplier before ordering.

How do I convert gravel cubic yards to tons?

Multiply cubic yards by the product weight in tons per cubic yard. If density is listed in pounds per cubic foot, multiply it by 27 and divide by 2,000 to get short tons per cubic yard.

Why does wet gravel weigh more?

Water adds mass inside and around the aggregate particles. A delivered truck weight can therefore change with moisture even when the geometric material volume is similar.

Is compacted density the same as loose bulk density?

No. Compaction reduces void space and increases mass per unit of finished volume. Supplier sales data may describe loose delivery density, while a design specification may use compacted density. Confirm which value you were given.