Road Base Calculator
Calculate how much road base gravel you need for roads, driveways, and paving projects
Road Dimensions
Length of the road section to be constructed
Width of the road section (typical: 3-7 meters for single/double lane)
Standard road base depth: 100-150mm (10-15cm). Check local regulations for requirements.
Standard: 1,430 kg/m³ (typical range: 1,400-1,600 kg/m³)
Extra material for compaction (typical: 10-15%)
Road Base Requirements
Area: 0.0m × 0.0m = 0.00 m²
Volume: 0.00 m² × 0.000m = 0.000 m³
Mass: 0.000 m³ × 1430 kg/m³ = 0.000 tonnes
With 10% compression: 0.000 + (0.000 × 0.1) = 0.000 tonnes
Reference: With current density (1430 kg/m³), 1 cubic yard weighs 1.09 tonnes
Cost Estimation (Optional)
Example Calculation
Typical Road Section
Dimensions: 100m length × 6m width × 15cm depth
Area: 100 × 6 = 600 m²
Depth conversion: 15cm = 0.15 meters
Volume: 600 × 0.15 = 90 m³
Weight & Compression Calculations
Base gravel: 90 m³ × 1,430 kg/m³ = 128.7 tonnes
With 10% compression: 128.7 + (128.7 × 0.1) = 141.57 tonnes
Weight per yd³: 1,430 kg/m³ × 0.76 m³ = 1.09 tonnes
Total needed: 141.57 tonnes (90 m³ + compression)
Road Base Materials
Crushed Granite
Most common, excellent compaction and durability.
Density: ~1,450 kg/m³
Limestone Base
Good drainage and binding properties.
Density: ~1,430 kg/m³
Recycled Concrete
Environmentally friendly, cost-effective option.
Density: ~1,400 kg/m³
Gravel Mix
Combination of rocks, sand, and clay.
Density: ~1,500 kg/m³
Standard Depths
Construction Guidelines
Prepare proper subgrade foundation
Ensure adequate drainage design
Compact in layers (max 200mm per lift)
Achieve 95% standard compaction
Follow local road construction standards
Test CBR value for heavy traffic roads
Understanding Road Base Construction
What is Road Base?
Road base is a layer of crushed material placed on the subgrade to provide structural support for the pavement. It distributes traffic loads, prevents pavement cracking, and ensures road durability and safety.
Why is Proper Calculation Critical?
- •Ensures structural integrity and safety
- •Prevents premature pavement failure
- •Optimizes material costs and project budget
- •Meets engineering and regulatory standards
Calculation Formulas
Area: Length × Width
Volume: Area × Depth
Mass: Volume × Density
With Compression: Mass × (1 + %)
- Standard Density: 1,430 kg/m³ (gravel)
- Typical Depth: 100-150mm standard
- Compression Factor: 10-15% extra material
- 1 Cubic Yard: Weighs ~1.09 tonnes
Warning: Road construction must comply with local engineering standards and regulations. Consult qualified engineers for public roads.