Asphalt Calculator
Enter your driveway or lot dimensions and get real cubic yards and estimated tons of asphalt.
You'll need
0.62 cubic yards
(16.7 cubic feet)
Estimated weight
1.23 tons
Keep going
- Asphalt goes down over a compacted gravel base, not bare ground; the gravel calculator sizes that base layer on its own. Gravel Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
How thick should an asphalt driveway be?
2-3 inches of compacted asphalt is a common trade recommendation for a residential driveway over a proper gravel base; commercial or heavy-vehicle areas often go thicker (4" or more, sometimes in two layers).
How much does asphalt weigh?
This calculator uses 2.0 tons per cubic yard, based on the standard trade figure of ~145 lb per cubic foot for compacted hot mix asphalt. Real weight varies slightly with the specific mix design.
Do I still need a gravel base under asphalt?
Yes -- asphalt itself isn't structural fill. A compacted gravel base (commonly 4-8 inches, more for poor soil) underneath is what actually supports the load; the asphalt layer is the durable, smooth wearing surface on top. See the gravel calculator for that layer.
How long does asphalt take to cure?
It's typically firm enough to walk on within 24-72 hours and safe for vehicle traffic after about a week, but full cure -- when it reaches its maximum hardness -- can take 6-12 months. Avoid parking in the same spot repeatedly or turning the wheel while stationary during that early period, since the surface is still softening.
What's the difference between hot mix and cold mix asphalt?
Hot mix asphalt (HMA) is produced and laid at high temperature (around 300°F) and is what's used for real driveways and roads -- it's what this calculator assumes. Cold mix is a pre-mixed patch product sold in bags for small repairs and pothole fills; it's more convenient but weaker and shorter-lived than a proper hot mix job.