How This Pea Gravel Calculator Works
Pea gravel — the smooth, rounded stone about the size of a pea — weighs around 1.4 tons per cubic yard, a little lighter than angular crushed rock because rounded stones don't pack as tightly. This calculator applies that density automatically and pre-loads the right depth for each project type: 2 inches for landscape beds and patios, 2.5 inches for walkways, and a full 10 inches for playground fall zones. Choose "custom depth" for anything else, or use the general gravel calculator if you're working with a different material.
Where Pea Gravel Works Best (and Where It Doesn't)
Pea gravel's smooth texture makes it the most comfortable loose stone to walk on — barefoot-friendly for patios and safe for children's play areas, which is why playgrounds specify it at 9–12 inches deep for impact absorption. It drains beautifully, suppresses weeds when laid over fabric, and comes in warm natural color mixes. Its weakness is the same roundness: it migrates under vehicle traffic and on slopes, so it's the wrong choice for driveways — use angular crushed stone there, as covered in our driveway calculator. Contain pea gravel with edging on every project or it will wander into your lawn.
Pea Gravel Coverage Quick Reference
| Depth | Coverage per Ton | Coverage per Cubic Yard |
|---|---|---|
| 2 inches | ~100 sq ft | ~162 sq ft |
| 2.5 inches | ~80 sq ft | ~130 sq ft |
| 3 inches | ~70 sq ft | ~108 sq ft |
| 4 inches | ~50 sq ft | ~81 sq ft |
| 10 inches (play area) | ~20 sq ft | ~32 sq ft |
Full tables for every material and depth are on the gravel coverage chart.