Path planning
Garden path gravel depth and quantity guide
Estimate path gravel by measuring the finished route and choosing a practical depth.
How to choose a planning depth for a garden path before calculating gravel volume, tonnes, and bags.
Measure the actual route
A path may curve, narrow, or widen, so split it into simpler sections before calculating area.
- Measure straight sections separately.
- Use average width for gentle curves.
- Exclude fixed steps, drains, or edging.
Depth depends on the build-up
The calculator estimates the gravel layer after you choose a depth, but the path may also need membrane, edging, or base preparation.
- Confirm whether the path is decorative or high-traffic.
- Allow for settling and uneven ground.
- Ask a supplier or landscaper for load-bearing projects.
This is an estimate. Site conditions, compaction, and aggregate type can change the final quantity.
Worked examples
5 x 3 m driveway A starting estimate for a 5 x 3 m area at 5 cm finished depth. 10 x 1 m path A starting estimate for a 10 x 1 m path at 4 cm finished depth. 4 x 4 m area A starting estimate for a 4 x 4 m area at 5 cm finished depth. 6 x 0.5 m border A starting estimate for a 6 x 0.5 m border at 4 cm finished depth.