Gravel Calculator — Tonnes & Cost
Calculate gravel needed in cubic metres, tonnes or bags for driveways, paths and landscaping.
Last updated: April 2026 · Source: GOV.UK — Building Regulations Approved Document H
Volume
0.75 m³
Weight
1.13 tonnes
25kg Bags
45
Est. Cost
£50.63
Disclaimer
This calculator is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial or tax advice. All calculations are performed locally in your browser — no personal data is collected or sent to our servers. Rates and thresholds are sourced from HMRC and GOV.UK and are updated for the current tax year. Always verify results with HMRC or consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.
How It Works
Gravel quantity is calculated by multiplying area × depth to get volume, then converting to tonnes using the bulk density. Most decorative gravel has a bulk density of 1.5–1.8 t/m³. A typical driveway uses a 40–50 mm depth of gravel over a compacted sub-base. Paths and borders need 25–40 mm depth.
This calculator shows results in cubic metres, tonnes and bulk bags (a standard bulk bag contains approximately 0.5 m³ or 0.8–0.9 tonnes). For driveways, a geo-textile membrane under the gravel prevents weed growth and stops gravel mixing with the sub-base. Gravel grids (honeycomb panels) stabilise the surface for vehicle use.
Enter the area dimensions and desired depth. The calculator shows volume, weight in tonnes, number of bulk bags and estimated cost (delivered gravel in the UK typically costs £50–£80 per tonne for standard aggregates, or £80–£150 per tonne for premium decorative gravel).
Example: Driveway 8 m × 3 m, 50 mm deep, 20 mm shingle
- Area: 24 m²
- Volume: 24 × 0.05 = 1.2 m³
- Weight: 1.2 × 1.7 = 2.04 tonnes
- Bulk bags: 2.04 ÷ 0.85 ≈ 2.4, order 3 bulk bags
- Estimated cost: ~£150–£240 delivered
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does the Gravel Calculator — Tonnes & Cost do?
- Calculate gravel needed in cubic metres, tonnes or bags for driveways, paths and landscaping. All calculations are performed in your browser using official UK rates and thresholds.
- Does this include waste allowance?
- Yes. Most building material calculations include a standard 10% waste allowance. You can adjust this figure depending on the complexity of your project and cutting requirements.
- Are prices accurate?
- Material prices are indicative estimates based on average UK prices. Actual costs vary by region, supplier, brand and current market conditions. Always get quotes from local suppliers.