How much gravel do I need for a gravel driveway?

For a typical gravel driveway, you need 4-6 inches of gravel depth. Calculate the area (length × width) and multiply by 0.33-0.5 (depth in feet) to get cubic feet, then divide by 27 for cubic yards. Add 10% for compaction. A 12' × 40' driveway typically needs 6-9 cubic yards of gravel.

What's the best gravel type for driveways?

Crushed stone (#57 or #67) is best for driveways due to its angular shape that locks together and provides good drainage. Quarry process gravel is also excellent for heavy traffic. Avoid pea gravel for driveways as it doesn't compact well and can shift under vehicle weight.

How do I prepare the base for a gravel driveway?

Excavate the area to 8-12 inches deep, remove organic material, level the surface, and compact the soil. Install landscape fabric to prevent weed growth, add a 4-6 inch base layer of larger stone (#411), compact thoroughly, then add your top layer of gravel and compact again.

How do I maintain a gravel driveway?

Inspect monthly and perform maintenance quarterly. Add fresh gravel to low spots, rake to redistribute material, remove weeds, and check drainage. Resurface every 2-3 years depending on traffic. Proper grading and edging help maintain the driveway's shape and prevent washout.

How long does a gravel driveway last?

A properly installed and maintained gravel driveway can last 10-20 years. Factors affecting longevity include traffic volume, climate conditions, base preparation quality, and maintenance frequency. Regular resurfacing and proper drainage significantly extend the life of gravel driveways.

Gravel Driveway Calculator

Driveway Parameters

Driveway Type

Select driveway width type

Length

Driveway length

Width

Driveway width

Gravel Depth

Gravel layer depth

Gravel Type

Select gravel material

Calculation Results

Gravel Driveway Calculator: Your Guide to Driveway Construction

Need to calculate gravel requirements for your driveway project? Our Gravel Driveway Calculator helps you determine the exact amount of gravel needed for a durable and attractive driveway surface.

Understanding Gravel Driveway Requirements

Gravel driveway calculations are important for several reasons:

Material Planning: Accurate quantity estimation
Cost Control: Budget management
Durability: Proper depth and compaction
Drainage: Effective water management
Maintenance: Long-term performance

How to Use the Gravel Driveway Calculator

Select Driveway Type: Choose the width type
Enter Length: Input the driveway length
Enter Width: Input the driveway width
Enter Depth: Input the gravel depth
Select Gravel Type: Choose the material
Click Calculate: Get material requirements

Gravel Driveway Calculation Formula

Volume Calculation:
V = L × W × D

Weight Calculation:
W = V × ρ

Where:
V = Volume (cubic yards)
L = Length (feet)
W = Width (feet)
D = Depth (inches)
W = Weight (tons)
ρ = Material density (tons/cubic yard)

Common Gravel Driveway Specifications

Single Car Driveway:
- Width: 10-12 feet
- Depth: 4-6 inches
- Material: Crushed Stone
Double Car Driveway:
- Width: 20-24 feet
- Depth: 4-6 inches
- Material: Quarry Process
Custom Driveway:
- Width: 8+ feet
- Depth: 4-8 inches
- Material: Various options

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Single Car Driveway

Driveway Type: Single Car
Length: 40 feet
Width: 12 feet
Depth: 4 inches
Material: Crushed Stone
Results:
- Volume: 5.9 cubic yards
- Weight: 8.9 tons
- Coverage: 480 square feet
- Cost Estimate: $590

Example 2: Double Car Driveway

Driveway Type: Double Car
Length: 60 feet
Width: 24 feet
Depth: 6 inches
Material: Quarry Process
Results:
- Volume: 26.7 cubic yards
- Weight: 40.0 tons
- Coverage: 1,440 square feet
- Cost Estimate: $2,670

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare the base?

Excavate, level, and compact the soil before adding gravel.

What affects gravel selection?

Climate, traffic, drainage, and aesthetic preferences.

How do I maintain the driveway?

Regular grading, adding fresh gravel, and proper drainage.

What is the minimum depth?

4 inches for light traffic, 6 inches for heavy traffic.

How do I prevent washout?

Proper grading, edging, and drainage systems.