How the math works
Area: 20 ft × 16 ft = 320 sq ftVolume @ 4": 320 × (4 ÷ 12) = 106.67 cu ftAdd 10%: 106.67 × 1.10 = 117.33 cu ftCubic yards: 117.33 ÷ 27 = 4.35 yd³Tons: 4.35 × 1.4 = 6.08 tonsTruck loads: 15.21 tons ÷ 15 tons per tandem = 2
Trade pro tips
- At 4" deep, 16x20 takes 6.08 tons — a single dump truck delivery covers it.
- Build in layers: 4" of #3 (2"–3") stone, 4" of #57, then 2" of crusher run / dense grade on top.
- Lay non-woven geotextile over clay soil first — it stops stone from sinking.
- Crown the driveway ½" per foot so water sheds to the sides.
- Spread with a box blade and compact each layer before the next.
Frequently asked questions
How many tons of gravel do I need for a 16x20 driveway?
At 4" deep: 6.08 tons. At 6": 9.13 tons. A complete 3-layer driveway (4" #3 + 4" #57 + 2" crusher run) is 15.21 tons. All include 10% extra.
How many cubic yards of gravel for 16x20?
2": 2.17 yd³; 4": 4.35 yd³; 6": 6.52 yd³; 8": 8.69 yd³. 16x20 is 320 sq ft.
How many truck loads of gravel for a 16x20 driveway?
A tandem dump truck carries about 15 tons. 16x20 at 4" (6.08 t) is 1 load; the full 3-layer build (15.21 t) is 2 loads.
How much does a 16x20 gravel driveway cost?
Stone alone at 4" is about $248 (~$55/yd³). A 3-layer build runs roughly $598 in material plus 40 sq yd of fabric; delivery and grading are extra.