Pea Gravel Calculator — How Much Pea Gravel Do I Need?
Enter your area and depth to get pea gravel in cubic feet, cubic yards and tons. No sign-up, no data stored.
Pea gravel needed
How pea gravel volume is estimated
- Cubic feet = length x width x depth (in) / 12.
- Cubic yards = cu ft / 27.
- Tons = cu yd x 1.4 (typical loose pea gravel density).
- Bags = ceil(cu ft / 0.5) for 50-lb bags (about 0.5 cu ft each).
Pea gravel compacts less than crushed stone, so the ordered volume is what you lay - compaction is minimal. A bulk order usually has a minimum delivery charge, which is why small patios are often cheaper in bags even though the per-volume price is higher.
Area → pea gravel reference
At 3-in depth (0.25 ft), loose density 1.4 tons/cu yd.
| Area | Cu ft | Cu yd | Tons | 50-lb bags |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 sq ft | 12.5 | 0.46 | 0.65 | 25 |
| 100 sq ft | 25 | 0.93 | 1.3 | 50 |
| 200 sq ft | 50 | 1.85 | 2.6 | 100 |
| 400 sq ft | 100 | 3.70 | 5.2 | 200 |
Last updated: October 2026 · Density varies with moisture and stone size; 1.4 tons/cu yd is a good planning value. Confirm with your supplier for exact delivery volume.
Pea gravel FAQ
On grades over about 5%, round stones roll downhill. Edge the bed with pavers or steel edging " "and consider angular crushed stone for steeper areas. The calculator assumes a level or gently " "sloped bed.
For occasional parking, 4-in depth over compacted base works. Daily parking pushes the stones " "into ruts, and the rounded stones spin under tires. Crushed limestone or a paver pad is a better " "daily-driver surface.
Install edging slightly proud of the gravel surface - metal or paver edging stops the scatter. " "A row of edging on both sides of a path is the difference between neat and a driveway of stray stones.
Bagged pea gravel is usually clean; bulk gravel carries dust that washes off in the first rain. " "Rinsing before spreading gives an instant finished look but doubles the work - most people skip it.
Landscape fabric over compacted soil, then the gravel. On paths add a 1-2-in crushed stone " "base under the fabric for a firm bed - pea gravel alone on soft soil develops footprints fast.
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How Much Pea Gravel Do I Need?
Depth choices, drainage uses and delivery math for pea gravel.
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