Rock

Pea Gravel Calculator

Calculate pea gravel by area and depth. Cubic yards, tons, and truckloads included.

Inputs

1/2-inch pea gravel stays in place slightly better on slopes and is a good pick for patios and dog runs.

Live estimate

Material needed

5.09 cu yd

Area
500 sq ft
Cubic feet
125
Cubic yards
4.63
Estimated tons
7.13
Estimated truckloads
0.42
Material cost
$356
Total cost
$356

Diagram

Custom areaPlan view3.0"Depth

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How it's calculated

Area is derived from your shape inputs and converted to sq ft.

Depth is converted to feet; cubic feet = area × depth.

Cubic yards = cubic feet ÷ 27, then × (1 + waste %) × (1 + compaction %).

Estimated tons = cubic yards (with waste) × 1.4.

Truckloads = cubic yards (with waste) ÷ truck capacity.

Total cost = cubic yards (with waste) × price per cubic yard + delivery.

Professional guidance

When to use pea gravel

Paths, dog runs, playgrounds, patios, and fire pit surrounds. Comfortable underfoot, drains freely.

Recommended depth

2 inches for light-use paths, 3–4 inches for patios, 6 inches over subgrade for playgrounds.

Pro tip

Pea gravel migrates. Use steel or paver edging at least as tall as the gravel depth.

Common mistakes

Laying pea gravel directly on soil. Always compact a 4-inch road-base layer underneath.

Material assumptions

  • Pea gravel density: about 1.4 tons per cubic yard.
  • Typical size: ¼ inch to ½ inch, smooth and rounded.
  • Path depth: 2–3 inches; patio depth: 3–4 inches over compacted base.

Frequently asked questions

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These results are estimates only. Confirm quantities, compaction, waste, and delivery requirements with your supplier or project professional before ordering materials.