How Much Gravel for a Driveway

Calculating Gravel for a Driveway

A gravel driveway is one of the most practical and cost-effective surfacing options for Australian homes, providing excellent drainage while requiring minimal maintenance. A standard single-car driveway of 10 metres long by 3 metres wide covers 30 square metres. At the recommended 150mm depth for vehicle traffic, you'll need approximately 4.5 cubic metres of blue metal gravel to create a durable driving surface.

At 4.5 cubic metres, blue metal gravel weighs approximately 6.75 tonnes. This is a substantial delivery that will typically require a truck with a significant payload capacity. The weight also underscores why driveways need proper preparation, as this heavy material will compact and potentially shift without adequate base preparation.

Why 150mm Depth for Driveways

Vehicle traffic places significant demands on a gravel surface. The 150mm depth provides enough material to resist displacement from turning wheels and repeated weight loading. Thinner layers tend to scatter more quickly, exposing the base beneath and creating ruts. For driveways that will see regular use from standard passenger vehicles, 150mm is the minimum recommended depth. Heavier vehicles like trailers or delivery trucks may warrant even thicker applications.

Base Preparation Matters

Before laying your gravel, proper base preparation is essential for a long-lasting driveway. Remove any vegetation and excavate to allow for the gravel depth plus compaction. Ideally, lay a compacted roadbase layer beneath the gravel for added stability. Install edging along the sides to prevent gravel migrating onto lawns and garden beds. Once the gravel is spread, compact it thoroughly with a plate compactor or roller to lock the stones together.

Planning a different size driveway? Use our main gravel calculator to enter your exact dimensions.