Aggregate calculator
Gravel calculator
Estimate loose aggregate volume and approximate mass for one rectangular area. Enter length, width, depth, waste, and a nominal material assumption.
Aggregate estimator
Enter area dimensions
Volume and estimated mass update when every value is valid.
Estimated requirement
Gravel needed
Estimated mass: 1.11 metric tonnes (1.22 short tons).
- Base volume
- 0.60 m³
- Waste added
- 0.06 m³
- Cubic yards
- 0.86 yd³
- Cubic feet
- 23.3 ft³
- Mass
- 1,109 kg / 2,444 lb
- Nominal density
- 1,680 kg/m³
- Waste allowance
- 10%
Mass is derived from the selected nominal density after waste is applied. Moisture, grading, voids, and compaction are not measured.
Estimating limits
Assumptions
- The area is rectangular with uniform loose depth.
- General gravel uses 1,680 kg/m³, crushed stone 1,600 kg/m³, and pea gravel 1,780 kg/m³.
- Waste is applied once to volume; mass is then derived from adjusted volume.
- Moisture, grading, compaction, voids, supplier measurement, and actual density can materially change the order.
Density choices are nominal estimating assumptions, not product specifications. See the shared calculation methodology.
Transparent method
Formula and method
Base volume = length × width × depth
Required volume = base volume × (1 + waste ÷ 100)
Estimated mass = required volume × nominal density
Dimensions convert to metres, volume remains in cubic metres, and mass remains in kilograms until display conversion.
Verified example
4 m × 3 m at 5 cm deep
General gravel produces 0.60 m³ base volume. With 10% waste, the requirement is 0.66 m³ or 0.86 yd³, with an estimated mass of 1.11 metric tonnes.
Common questions
Gravel calculator FAQ
Is this loose or compacted volume?
The geometry estimates loose placed volume. Compaction behavior is not predicted.
Why is mass only an estimate?
Bulk density changes with moisture, grading, voids, and handling.
What waste allowance should I use?
Choose an allowance reflecting uncertainty, spillage, and irregular ground; the default is 10%.
Can I estimate an irregular area?
This page handles one rectangle. Divide a suitable area into rectangles and combine estimates carefully.
How should I order from a supplier?
Confirm whether the supplier sells by volume, mass, or another unit and which conversion they use.
Related tools