Coverage
How Much Gravel Do I Need for 1,000 Square Feet?
Covering 1,000 ft² takes about 6.2 cubic yards (9 tonnes) at 2 inches deep. Here is the full breakdown by depth, in cubic yards and tonnes, plus the cost to budget for.
Gravel for 1,000 ft² by depth
A cubic yard covers 27 ft² at 12 inches, so 1,000 ft² takes the following at common depths:
| Depth | Cubic yards | Cubic metres | Tonnes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 in (5 cm) | ≈ 6.2 yd³ | ≈ 4.7 m³ | ≈ 9.0 t |
| 3 in (7.5 cm) | ≈ 9.3 yd³ | ≈ 7.1 m³ | ≈ 13.5 t |
| 4 in (10 cm) | ≈ 12.3 yd³ | ≈ 9.4 m³ | ≈ 18.0 t |
| 6 in (15 cm) | ≈ 18.5 yd³ | ≈ 14.2 m³ | ≈ 27.0 t |
Tonnage assumes a typical density of about 1.5 t/m³. Add 5–10% extra for compaction and uneven ground.
What will it cost?
At roughly CAD $20–$70 per cubic yard for bulk gravel, 1,000 ft² at 2 inches (about 6.2 yd³) runs around $125–$435 in material, before delivery. A 4 inch layer roughly doubles that. Decorative stone such as river rock or coloured gravel costs more.
How the math works
Multiply area by depth (in the same units), then convert: 1,000 ft² × 2 in ÷ 12 = 166.7 ft³, and 166.7 ÷ 27 ≈ 6.2 yd³. To skip the arithmetic, enter your numbers in the Cubic Yards of Gravel Calculator or the Aggregate Calculator. See also how much a tonne of gravel covers.
Frequently asked questions
How many yards of gravel do I need for 1,000 square feet?
About 6.2 cubic yards at 2 inches deep, 9.3 yards at 3 inches, and 12.3 yards at 4 inches. Multiply area by depth in feet, then divide by 27 to get cubic yards.
How many tonnes of gravel for 1,000 square feet?
Roughly 9 tonnes at 2 inches, 13.5 tonnes at 3 inches, and 18 tonnes at 4 inches, using a typical gravel density of about 1.5 t/m³. Add 5–10% for compaction.
How much does it cost to gravel 1,000 square feet?
At about $20–$70 per cubic yard for bulk gravel, a 2 inch layer over 1,000 ft² costs roughly $125–$435 in material before delivery. A 4 inch layer is about double, and decorative stone costs more.
How deep should gravel be for a 1,000 sq ft area?
It depends on use: 2 inches for decorative ground cover, 3–4 inches for paths, and 4–6 inches of compacted base for driveways or parking. Deeper layers need proportionally more gravel.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general estimates for planning. Actual gravel quantities, weights and prices vary with material type, particle size, moisture, compaction, supplier and your province. Costs are material-only ballparks in Canadian dollars and exclude labour, delivery and taxes unless stated. Always confirm quantities and prices with your local supplier.