Calculators / Mulch, gravel and soil
Pea gravel calculator: how much do you need?
Measure the patio, path or play area and how deep you want it. You'll get the tons to order in bulk, or the bags for a small spot.
Updated · How we check our numbers
Order this much
2 tons
That's 1.2 cubic yards of pea gravel, with 10% extra for packing down.
- Area
- 120 sq ft
- Depth
- 3 in
- Cubic yards
- 1.2 yd
- Tons
- 2
Estimate for planning only, not professional advice. Check the manufacturer’s instructions, your local code and a licensed professional before you buy, build or install. Use at your own risk. Terms.
area = 12 ft × 10 ft = 120 sq ft
volume = 120 sq ft × 3 in ÷ 12 = 30 cu ft = 1.1 cu yd
with 10% for compaction = 1.1 × 1.1 = 1.2 cu yd
tons = 1.2 × 1.35 t/yd = 1.7, rounded up to 2
We used 1.35 tons a yard for pea gravel. Stone runs 1.3 to 1.6 depending on size and how wet it is. Ask the yard what theirs weighs.
Put woven geotextile fabric down first. It keeps the stone from sinking into the mud and cuts down on weeds.
See woven geotextile fabric on Amazon (opens Amazon in a new tab)As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
How we work it out
We work out the cubic yards, add 10% for settling, then use 1.35 tons a yard for pea gravel. Round stone packs a little looser than crushed.
cubic yards = sq ft × depth in inches ÷ 12 ÷ 27
tons = cubic yards × 1.1 × 1.35
Go 2 to 3 in deep for a patio or path. Deeper and it shifts underfoot like sand. Small jobs get a bag count too; most bagged pea gravel at the store is 0.5 cu ft.
Pea gravel rolls and never locks up, so edge it with steel or pavers to keep it in place, and keep it off anywhere you drive.
Where the numbers come from
Not sure of the size?
More rock
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