Asphalt Calculator

Enter the area and compacted thickness and get the volume in cubic yards, the weight in US tons and tonnes, and an optional cost per ton.

Asphalt is sold by weight, so the tonnage figure is what you will actually order.

How to use the asphalt calculator

Enter the driveway or lot dimensions.

Set the compacted thickness and mix density.

Read tons, tonnes and cost.

Why use the Build Tally asphalt calculator

Sold by the ton

Gives the unit suppliers actually quote in.

Adjustable density

Use your supplier's figure for accuracy.

Metric too

Tonnes and cubic metres included.

Any shape

Rectangle, circle, triangle or known area.

Why asphalt is ordered by weight

Unlike concrete, asphalt is quoted and delivered by the ton. The conversion from volume depends on the mix density, typically 140–150 lb per cubic foot for standard hot mix — around 2 tons per cubic yard. The calculator lets you set the density if your supplier gives you a specific figure, which improves accuracy on larger jobs.

Compacted versus loose thickness

The thickness you enter should be the finished, compacted depth. Asphalt is laid loose and rolled, and it compacts by roughly 20–25% in the process — so a 3 inch finished surface is laid at about 4 inches loose. Suppliers calculate tonnage from compacted depth, which is what this tool assumes, but it is worth confirming when you order.

Typical thicknesses

A residential driveway is usually 2–3 inches of surface course over 4–8 inches of compacted aggregate base. Parking areas and anything taking delivery trucks need more — often 3–4 inches of asphalt over a deeper base. As with concrete, the base does most of the structural work, and asphalt laid on an inadequate base will crack and rut regardless of its thickness.

Read the guide: How Much Gravel Do I Need? Tons, Cubic Yards and the Right Depth

Frequently asked questions

How much asphalt do I need?

Area × compacted thickness gives volume; multiply by the density to get weight. Enter your figures above and the calculator returns tons.

How many tons of asphalt in a cubic yard?

About 2 US tons at a typical density of 145 lb per cubic foot.

How thick should an asphalt driveway be?

Two to three inches of asphalt over 4–8 inches of compacted aggregate base for residential use.

How much does asphalt cover per ton?

At 2 inches compacted, one ton covers roughly 80 square feet. At 3 inches, about 53 square feet.

Should I enter loose or compacted thickness?

Compacted. Asphalt reduces by roughly 20–25% when rolled, and suppliers price from the finished depth.

Can asphalt be laid over concrete?

Sometimes, but the concrete must be sound and the joints will usually reflect through eventually. Ask a paving contractor.