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Asphalt Calculator

Find how many tons of hot mix asphalt a driveway or lot needs, with an optional gravel base and the cost.

Change the values and press Calculate to work out your own figures.

From length and width

Enter the length and width.

About lengthSize of this dimension.
About widthSize of this dimension.
About height or depthSize of this dimension.
About density unitUnit of your density.
About base gravel depth (optional)Compacted gravel under the surface.
About your density, lb/ft³ (optional)From your supplier; overrides the material's typical value.
About extra, % (optional)For waste, cuts or compaction; for example 10.
About price per ton (optional)For the cost.
Result
Asphalt
3.63 tons
Volume
50 cu ft (1.85 cu yd)
Weight
7,250 lb (3.29 metric tonnes)
Density used
145 lb/ft³ (typical hot mix; 142–148)

You need about 3.63 tons of asphalt.

Show the working
  1. cubic feet = area × thickness
  2. tons = cubic feet × 145 lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000

From an area

Enter the area.

About areaThe area to fill.
About height or depthSize of this dimension.
About density unitUnit of your density.
About base gravel depth (optional)Compacted gravel under the surface.
About your density, lb/ft³ (optional)From your supplier; overrides the material's typical value.
About extra, % (optional)For waste, cuts or compaction; for example 10.
About price per ton (optional)For the cost.
Result
Asphalt
21.75 tons
Volume
300 cu ft (11.11 cu yd)
Weight
43,500 lb (19.73 metric tonnes)
Density used
145 lb/ft³ (typical hot mix; 142–148)

You need about 21.75 tons of asphalt.

Show the working
  1. cubic feet = area × thickness
  2. tons = cubic feet × 145 lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000

How to use it

Enter the length and width. Enter the area.

Lengths can be decimals, fractions or tape entries such as 12' 6 1/2" (in feet or inches). Prices are optional.

Key facts

tons = length × width × thickness (cu ft) × 145 lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000

Thickness

Residential driveways are usually at least 3 in of asphalt (4–6 in in cold climates) over 4–8 in of compacted gravel; parking lots more.

Questions

How many tons of asphalt for 10 × 20 ft at 3 in?

3.63 tons (50 cu ft × 145 lb ÷ 2,000).

How much does asphalt weigh?

About 145 lb per cubic foot (142–148).

Formulas

tons = length × width × thickness (cu ft) × 145 lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000

Sources

Limitations

  • Material densities are typical values (the midpoint of the commonly published range); real loads vary with moisture, grading and compaction, so check with your supplier or type in their density.
  • Tank results are the geometric volume; real tanks have wall thickness and fittings.

Formula version 0.1.0Reviewed