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Nestiex

Patio Gravel Calculator

Estimate gravel for a loose-gravel patio surface or the base beneath a paved one. Enter your patio dimensions and depth for cubic yards and tons.

Patio Gravel Calculator

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cubic yards
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tons
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bags (0.5 ft³)
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est. cost
Patio Gravel Calculator, live preview
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Enter values to see your estimate.

How to Calculate Gravel for a Patio

Change the calculator above and watch every figure and the diagram below update live.

Top-down view (area × depth)

W L depth 4"

Step 1 · Area

20 ft × 10 ft = 200 ft²

Step 2 · Volume (× depth, ÷ 27)

200 ft² × 0.33 ft ÷ 27 = 2.47 yd³

3.46
tons (× 1.4)
134
bags (÷ 0.5 ft³)

These figures update automatically as you change the calculator above.

Patio gravel coverage

Approximate coverage of one cubic yard of gravel at common depths.

Approximate coverage of one cubic yard of gravel at common depths.
DepthCoverage per yd³Relative coverage
1" 324 sq ft
100%
2" 162 sq ft
50%
3" 108 sq ft
33%
4" 81 sq ft
25%
6" 54 sq ft
17%
3 in
3"

At 3 inches deep, one cubic yard of gravel covers 108 sq ft.

Patio Gravel FAQs

How much gravel do I need for a patio?
Measure length × width, choose your depth, and divide the volume by 27 for cubic yards. A 12 × 12 ft patio at 2 inches needs about 0.9 cubic yards.
How deep should a gravel patio be?
About 2 inches of decorative gravel over a 2–4 inch compacted base gives a stable, comfortable surface.
What gravel is best for a patio?
Small, angular gravel like pea gravel or 3/8-inch stone is comfortable underfoot and stays in place well.
Do I need edging for a gravel patio?
Yes, edging keeps the gravel contained and stops it migrating into the surrounding lawn or beds.

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