Asphalt Driveway Calculator
Size up an asphalt driveway. Enter the length, width and compacted thickness — residential driveways are usually 2–3 in of asphalt over a gravel base — and the calculator returns the tons of hot mix asphalt, an estimated material cost and the area to prepare.
How it works
Tons = length × width × (thickness ÷ 12) × 145 lb/ft³ ÷ 2,000, plus waste. Material cost = tons × your price per ton. A driveway also needs a compacted gravel base — typically 4–8 in — under the asphalt; use the gravel calculator for that layer.
Frequently asked questions
How many tons of asphalt for a driveway?
A typical 40 × 12 ft driveway at 3 in of compacted asphalt is about 8.7 tons. A single-car 20 × 10 ft pad at 2 in is roughly 2.4 tons. Enter your exact size above for a precise figure.
How thick should an asphalt driveway be?
Plan on 2–3 in of compacted asphalt for a residential driveway — often a 2 in binder course plus a 1–1.5 in surface course — over 4–8 in of compacted gravel.
Do I need a gravel base under asphalt?
Yes. A compacted aggregate base spreads loads and drains water so the asphalt does not crack or heave. It matters as much as the asphalt thickness — size it with the gravel calculator.
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Estimates are for planning only. Material yields, densities and code requirements vary — confirm quantities with your supplier and local building code before ordering.