Pea Gravel Calculator
Buy Pea Gravel at Home Depot →How this calculator works
Pea gravel uses the same density as standard gravel (1.4 tons per cubic yard), so the math is identical — only the default depth is shallower, since pea gravel is almost always a decorative top layer rather than a structural base.
Formula: Cubic yards = (Length ft × Width ft × Depth ft) ÷ 27. Tons = Cubic yards × 1.4.
Worked example
A 12 ft × 10 ft patio at 2 inches deep:
- Depth in feet: 2 ÷ 12 = 0.167 ft
- Cubic yards: (12 × 10 × 0.167) ÷ 27 = 0.74 yd³
- Tons: 0.74 × 1.4 = 1.04 tons
- At $60/ton, that’s $62.22 before waste.
Coverage reference
| Depth | Coverage per ton |
|---|---|
| 1 in | ~231 sq ft |
| 2 in | ~116 sq ft |
| 3 in | ~77 sq ft |
How to measure your area
For patios or paths, measure the full length and width of the finished surface, including any borders that will also be covered in pea gravel.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should pea gravel be for a patio?
2 inches is standard for a decorative patio or path surface over a compacted base or landscape fabric.
Is pea gravel the same weight as regular gravel?
Yes, pea gravel weighs about the same as standard gravel, roughly 1.4 tons per cubic yard, since it's the same rock, just smaller and rounder.
Do I need landscape fabric under pea gravel?
Yes, for most applications — it stops weeds and keeps the pea gravel from sinking into the soil over time.
How much does pea gravel cost?
Typically $55-70 per ton, more than standard gravel because of the extra processing to round and size the stones.
Estimates only. Verify quantities with your supplier before purchasing.