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Gravel and Paver Base Planning Guide

Plan gravel, pea gravel, driveway stone, paver base, sand layers, depth, cubic yards, compaction, and delivery.

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Planning sequence

1

Estimate each layer separately

A gravel driveway, paver patio, or path may have base stone, top stone, pea gravel, bedding sand, or edging. Each layer can use a different depth and material density, so estimate them separately.

2

Convert depth from inches to feet

Volume is area times depth. If depth is measured in inches, divide by 12 before multiplying by square footage. Divide cubic feet by 27 to get cubic yards.

3

Plan for compaction and settling

Base gravel is usually compacted, and loose material may settle after installation. Compaction can reduce final height, so supplier guidance and project use matter.

4

Match material to use

Pea gravel, crushed stone, paver base, drainage stone, and driveway gravel behave differently. Decorative gravel is not always suitable for compacted base layers.

Planning assumptions

Cubic yard conversion 1 cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet.
Depth input Convert inches to feet before calculating volume.
Compaction Compactable base material may need extra volume to reach final depth.
Delivery units Suppliers may price by cubic yard or ton depending on material.

Common mistakes

Skipping layer separation

Base and top layers often use different depths and materials.

Treating tons as cubic yards

Weight conversion depends on material density and moisture.

Forgetting edging

Loose gravel can spread without borders, especially pea gravel.

Related measuring guides

Gravel Calculator Guide Estimate gravel volume in cubic yards from area, depth, compaction, and waste. Driveway Gravel Estimate Estimate gravel for a driveway by measuring length, width, layer depth, and compaction. Pea Gravel Calculator Guide Estimate pea gravel cubic yards for patios, paths, play areas, and landscape beds. Paver Base Calculator Guide Estimate paver base gravel and sand from patio or walkway area, depth, and compaction.

Worked examples

Gravel Estimate for a 10x20 Driveway at 4 Inches

Worked gravel estimate for a 10x20 driveway layer using depth, cubic yards, and compaction allowance.

View worked example

Paver Base Estimate for a 12x12 Patio

Worked paver base estimate for a 12x12 patio with base gravel, bedding sand, depth, and compaction allowance.

View worked example

FAQ

How do I calculate gravel cubic yards?

Multiply length by width by depth in feet, then divide by 27.

Should I order gravel by ton or yard?

Use cubic yards for volume, then ask the supplier for ton conversion by material.

Does paver base need compaction allowance?

Yes. Compactable base material may need extra volume to reach the planned finished depth.