How deep to go
| Use | Published figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Residential driveway (CMHA minimum) | 6 in | cmha.org |
| Parking lot or residential street (CMHA) | 8 in | cmha.org |
| Driveway (Unilock guideline) | 8 to 12 in | unilock.com |
The Concrete Masonry and Hardscapes Association (formerly ICPI) sets a 6-inch minimum base for residential driveways and 8 inches for parking lots and residential streets. Unilock's own guideline is 8 to 12 inches for driveways. Soft or wet soil calls for the deeper end.
Working it out
Cubic yards = area (sq ft) × depth (in) ÷ 12 ÷ 27. Tons = cubic yards × weight per cubic yard.
Example: 40 × 12 ft at 8 inches with 10% extra is 13.0 cubic yards of crusher run, about 19.6 tons at 1.50 tons per cubic yard.
Rochester Concrete Products' install guide adds 10% for compaction and uneven ground.
Common questions
How much gravel do I need for a paver driveway base?
Measure the area, choose a depth from the table above and enter both in the calculator. It gives cubic yards, tons and bags.
Should I order extra?
Rochester Concrete Products' install guide adds 10% for compaction and uneven ground. Loose stone also compacts, so a compacted layer needs more loose material than its finished depth suggests.
Related calculators
Sources
- https://www.cmha.org/news-and-insights/proper-concrete-paver-base-and-depth-what-to-know-and-why-it-matters/
- https://unilock.com/diy/dos-and-donts-of-paver-installation-base-preparation-23/
- https://rochestercp.com/resources/installation-manuals/installation-manual-vintage-6.pdf