How much gravel does a driveway need?
Work out each layer separately: area × layer depth ÷ 27 = cubic yards, then × the stone's weight = tons. Add them up, with a little extra for compaction.
A 12 × 100 ft driveway (1,200 sq ft) with a 6 inch base and a 2 inch top: 22.2 + 7.4 = 29.6 yd³. At about 1.4 to 1.5 tons per yard that's 41 to 44 tons, before compaction extra.
Driveway layers
| Layer | Stone | Depth (The Brickyard) | Depth (Hello Gravel) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Crusher run or #3/#4 stone | 4–6 in | 4–6 in (1½ in+ stone) |
| Middle | ¾ in crushed stone | – | 3–4 in |
| Top | #57 stone or crusher run | 2–3 in | 1–2 in |
On weak clay, The Brickyard goes to 10 to 12 inches in total. A geotextile fabric under the base keeps stone from sinking into soft soil.
#57 stone, crusher run, pea gravel: what goes in each layer and why.
Read the guideCrown it
Shape the driveway with a slight crown or cross-slope so water runs off. Standing water is what turns gravel driveways into potholes.
Only need the base layer? Use the road base calculator.
Road base calculatorFrequently asked questions
How many tons of gravel for a driveway?
More than most people expect. A 12 × 100 ft driveway with a 6 inch base and a 2 inch top layer is about 30 cubic yards: roughly 41 to 44 tons of stone, depending on the stone's weight.
How deep should a gravel driveway be?
The Brickyard recommends 4 to 6 inches of compacted crusher run for the base plus a 2 to 3 inch top layer of #57 stone, and 10 to 12 inches in total on weak clay. Hello Gravel describes a three-layer build: 4 to 6 inches of 1½ inch or larger stone, 3 to 4 inches of ¾ inch stone, then 1 to 2 inches on top.
What is the best gravel for a driveway?
Angular crushed stone in layers: large stone or crusher run for the base, #57 stone or crusher run on top. Rounded pea gravel and river rock roll under tires.
How many truckloads of gravel for a driveway?
Divide the total tons by what one truck carries. Truck sizes vary, so ask your quarry how many tons their trucks hold.
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