How Does This Calculator Work?
The calculator finds the loose volume in cubic yards, then multiplies by a compaction factor (typically 1.2, or 20% extra) to account for settling once the gravel is driven on and compacted.
Driveway gravel compacts significantly once driven on, so ordering the raw calculated volume alone often leaves you short. This calculator adds a compaction factor to your base estimate.
Example Calculation
Driveway Example
600 sq ft, 6 inches deep, 1.2 compaction factor.
((600×(6/12))/27)×1.2 ≈ 16.0 cubic yards.
Tips
Use a compaction factor around 1.2–1.3 for crushed stone driveway base layers.