OUTDOOR
How to Estimate a Gravel Driveway
Contractor method for estimating a gravel driveway by volume, compaction, density and delivery.
A gravel driveway is priced by the tons of gravel, which come from the volume after compaction, plus install and delivery. The math keeps units straight between length, volume and weight.
THE SHORT ANSWER
How do you estimate a gravel driveway?
Multiply length by width by depth and compaction for the volume in cubic yards, then by density for tons. A 40 x 10 ft drive at 4 in is about 5.9 cu yd and 8.3 tons, totaling about $673.
Measure length, width and depth
Measure the drive and the gravel thickness. All three go into the volume.
- Length
- Width
- Depth
- Compaction
Compute the compacted volume
Multiply length, width and depth, then apply a compaction factor. In the US, convert cubic feet to cubic yards.
Convert volume to tons
Multiply the volume by the gravel density in tons per cubic yard. That gives the tons you buy.
Add install and delivery
Spreading and compacting is per unit of area, and delivery is a fixed fee. Use the Gravel Driveway Cost Calculator.