How do you calculate gravel from square feet and depth?
Measure the square footage first, then multiply by the gravel depth in feet. A 100 square foot bed at 2 inches deep is 100 x 0.167 = 16.7 cubic feet. Divide by 27 to convert cubic feet to cubic yards.
The shortcut works because 1 cubic yard is 27 cubic feet, and 27 x 12 = 324. Add overage after the raw volume is calculated.
Why do gravel tons and cubic yards both matter?
Homeowners often measure coverage by area and depth, which gives volume. Suppliers may quote decorative rock by the cubic yard, but aggregate yards and quarries often sell by the ton. Density converts between the two, and it changes with stone type, size, fines, and moisture. The U.S. Geological Survey tracks crushed stone as a major construction aggregate, which is why local quarry pricing and supply can vary by region.
How deep should gravel be for beds, paths, and driveways?
Use 2 inches for many decorative landscape beds, 3 inches for a more reliable path or patio surface, 2 inches for a driveway refresh, and 4 to 6 inches or more for base, fill, or drainage projects. For structural driveway design, treat this page as a material estimate only. For road-grade work, the Federal Highway Administration gravel roads guide shows why aggregate depth and maintenance practices depend on the road base and use case.
What gravel ordering mistakes should you avoid?
- Calculating one side yard or bed, then forgetting there are two matching areas.
- Using a thin 2 inch layer where foot traffic really needs closer to 3 or 4 inches.
- Forgetting low spots, uneven edges, spreading loss, or compaction.
- Choosing round pea gravel where angular crushed rock would lock together better.
- Trying to judge a dumped pile exactly by eye instead of checking the order math.