How to use the pea gravel calculator
- Enter the shape and size of the area: a rectangle for paths and patios or a circle for round beds.
- Enter the depth. Pea gravel is small and rolls underfoot, so walkways are usually kept fairly shallow, with edging to contain the stones.
- Enter the bag volume printed on the bag you plan to buy, and optionally its price.
- If you are comparing a bulk delivery, enter the price per ton.
How the calculation works
The area is multiplied by the depth to get volume, and the extra allowance is added. Bags are the total cubic feet divided by the bag volume, rounded up. Weight uses the bulk density you enter; rounded pea gravel packs a little differently from angular crushed stone, and 1.4 tons per cubic yard is a typical planning value.
Formula
Worked example
A 15 × 4 ft garden path, 3 in deep
Area = 60 ft². Volume = 60 × 0.25 = 15 ft³; with 5% extra = 15.75 ft³ (0.58 yd³).
Bags of 0.5 ft³: 15.75 ÷ 0.5 = 31.5 → 32 bags. Weight ≈ 0.58 × 1.4 = 0.82 tons.
Assumptions and limitations
- Bag volumes and weights differ by brand; use the figure on the bag.
- Density varies with moisture and stone size. Bulk suppliers may quote per ton or per yard; use their conversion when ordering.
- Playground surfacing has specific safety depth and material requirements. Follow the applicable playground safety guidance rather than general landscaping depths.
Frequently asked questions
How many bags of pea gravel are in a cubic yard?
A cubic yard is 27 ft³, so it takes 54 bags of 0.5 ft³.
Is it cheaper to buy pea gravel in bags or bulk?
Bags are convenient for small areas, but bulk is usually cheaper per cubic yard once you need more than about one yard, even after a delivery fee. Enter both prices to compare.
How deep should pea gravel be?
Decorative cover and paths are often 2-3 in. Deeper layers become loose and harder to walk on unless stabilized.