Asphalt Calculator

How to Calculate Asphalt Tonnage

This calculator estimates how many tons of asphalt you need based on the area and depth of your project.

The method

1. Convert area and depth to cubic yards: Cubic Yards = Area × (Depth ÷ 12) ÷ 27
2. Convert cubic yards to tons: Tons = Cubic Yards × 2.025

The factor 2.025 represents the average density of compacted hot-mix asphalt (~145 lbs per cubic foot).

Step-by-step

1. Enter the surface area in square feet (length × width for rectangular areas).
2. Enter the depth in inches (typically 2–4 inches for driveways, 4–6 inches for heavy-use areas).

Worked example

600 sq ft driveway, 4 inches deep. Cubic yards = 600 × (4÷12) ÷ 27 = 600 × 0.333 ÷ 27 ≈ 7.41. Tons = 7.41 × 2.025 ≈ 15.0 tons.

Asphalt tips

Residential driveways typically use 2–3 inches over a prepared base. Commercial lots may need 4–6 inches. Always order 5–10% extra for edges, compaction variation, and uneven subgrade. Asphalt is sold by the ton, not by the square foot.