How this calculator works
Asphalt is ordered by weight. The calculator finds the compacted volume, adds waste and multiplies by density, then converts pounds to US tons (2,000 lb).
Volume (ft³) = Length × Width × Thickness(in)/12 × (1 + Waste%/100)
Tons = Volume × Density ÷ 2000
Assumptions and tips
- Base preparation (gravel base) is not included — see the Gravel Calculator.
Worked example
Using the default values in the calculator above:
| Input | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 50 ft |
| Width | 12 ft |
| Compacted thickness | 2 in |
| Asphalt density | 145 lb/ft³ |
| Waste allowance | 5 % |
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Asphalt needed | 7.61 tons |
| Volume | 3.89 cubic yards |
| Area | 600 sq ft |
Step by step:
- Volume = 50 × 12 × 2/12 × 1.05 = 105 cu ft
- Weight = 105 × 145 lb = 15,225 lb
- Tons = 15,225 ÷ 2000 = 7.61
Asphalt tons for typical driveways
2 in compacted, 145 lb/ft³, 5% waste.
| Driveway | Asphalt needed |
|---|---|
| 10 × 20 ft | 2.54 tons |
| 12 × 50 ft | 7.61 tons |
| 20 × 20 ft | 5.08 tons |
| 20 × 50 ft | 12.69 tons |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Entering loose thickness rather than compacted thickness.
Frequently asked questions
How thick should an asphalt driveway be?
Residential driveways are often 2–3 in of compacted asphalt over a well-compacted gravel base. Your contractor sets the spec for your soil and traffic.