Gravel calculator
Gravel is sold by the tonne, by the bulk bag or by the cubic metre. Enter the area and depth to get all three.
Measuring in feet and inches? Use the US version
Gravel needed
0.94 tonnes
- Volume
- 0.55 m³
- Bulk bags
- 1 1 tonne bags
- Area
- 10 m²
How it works
The calculator works out the volume (length × width × depth, all in metres), adds your extra percentage, then multiplies by the weight of a cubic metre of gravel. That weight varies with the stone’s type, size and moisture, so use your supplier’s figure if they give one.
Bulk bags are sold by weight, typically about a tonne, which is roughly 0.6 m³ of gravel.
Example
With length 10 m, width 1 m, depth 50 mm, weight per cubic metre 1.7 tonnes, extra for settling and spillage 10%, the answer is 0.94 tonnes.
Tips before you buy
- Decorative gravel paths usually need 30–50 mm over a weed membrane. Driveways need a deeper, compacted sub-base underneath.
- Lay a permeable weed membrane first so weeds don’t grow up through the stones.
- Smaller, angular gravel stays put better on paths. Rounded pea shingle moves underfoot.
Common questions
How much area does a tonne of gravel cover?
At about 1.7 tonnes per m³, a tonne covers roughly 12 m² at 50 mm deep or 20 m² at 30 mm.
How much does a cubic metre of gravel weigh?
Usually 1.6 to 1.8 tonnes, depending on the stone and how wet it is.
How deep should a gravel path be?
30–50 mm of decorative gravel is typical, over a membrane and a firm base.