How to Calculate Pea Gravel

Pea gravel is a common material homeowners use for walkways, driveways and garden landscape. Calculating the amount of pea gravel needed involves basic math to convert the figures to cubic yards. Many suppliers and vendors sell pea gravel for large projects by the cubic yard. An essential part of calculating pea gravel is figuring the depth needed for the project. Two or three inches should be sufficient for most projects.

Measuring tape
Pad and pencil
Calculator

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length and width of the area where you will lay the pea gravel. You should attempt to break down each area into squares or rectangles for ease of measuring.
- 2
  Divide the desired depth by twelve. For example, two inches of pea gravel will result in about .17 (2 / 12).
- 3
  Compute the total cubic feet for the pea gravel. Multiply the length times width times the .17 figure for gravel depth. For example, A 10-foot-by-6-foot area comprises 10.2 cubic feet (10 x 6 x .17).
- 4
  Convert the figure to cubic yards. Divide the cubic feet figure by 27, the number of feet in one cubic yard. An area of 10.2 cubic feet equals about .38 cubic yards (10.2 / 27).
- 5
  Add 10 percent to the total cubic yard figure to allow for settling or wasted material.

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