Asphalt Calculator
Calculate the amount of asphalt needed for your project based on area and thickness. Get instant results and helpful insights for your construction planning.
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Dimensions
- • Measure length and width of your project area
- • Determine required thickness based on usage
- • Input all measurements in the same unit system
Select Unit System
- • Choose Imperial (feet, inches) for US projects
- • Choose Metric (meters, cm) for international projects
- • Calculator automatically converts between systems
View Results
- • See calculated area in square feet/meters
- • View volume in cubic feet/meters
- • Get asphalt needed in tons/tonnes
Check Bonus Insights
- • See estimated truckloads required
- • View approximate material costs
- • Download results for your records
Asphalt Calculator Guide
Understanding Asphalt Measurements
Asphalt is typically measured by weight (tons or tonnes) rather than volume. This calculator converts your project dimensions into the weight of asphalt needed.
Key Factors:
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Density
Asphalt typically weighs about 145 pounds per cubic foot (2,322 kg/m³).
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Compaction
Asphalt is compacted during installation, affecting the final volume needed.
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Thickness
Proper thickness is crucial for durability and load-bearing capacity.
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Temperature
Asphalt must be installed at specific temperatures for proper compaction.
Recommended Asphalt Thickness
| Application | Recommended Thickness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Driveway | 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) | Suitable for light vehicles |
| Commercial Driveway | 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) | For heavier traffic |
| Parking Lot | 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) | Standard commercial use |
| Heavy-Duty Parking | 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) | For trucks and heavy equipment |
| Roadway | 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) | Depends on traffic volume |
Asphalt Pavement Layers
Additional Considerations
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Base Material:
A proper base of 4-8 inches of crushed stone or gravel is recommended beneath the asphalt.
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Waste Factor:
Consider adding 5-10% extra material to account for waste and spillage.
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Compaction:
Asphalt is typically compacted to about 75-85% of its loose volume.
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Minimum Order:
Many asphalt suppliers have minimum order requirements (often 5-10 tons).
How Much Does 1 Ton of Asphalt Cover?
Frequently Asked Questions
Asphalt typically costs between $85-$150 per ton, depending on your location, oil prices, and project size. For a more accurate estimate, use our Asphalt Cost Calculator .
A ton of asphalt typically covers about 80 square feet at a 2-inch thickness, 55 square feet at a 3-inch thickness, or 40 square feet at a 4-inch thickness.
Asphalt typically has a density of about 145 pounds per cubic foot (2,322 kg/m³), though this can vary slightly based on the specific mix and aggregate used.
This calculator provides a good estimate for planning purposes, but actual asphalt needs may vary based on site conditions, compaction rates, and waste factors. We recommend adding 5-10% extra for waste.
Yes, this calculator works for both residential and commercial projects. For large commercial projects, we recommend consulting with a professional contractor for the most accurate estimates.
Need help estimating larger projects?
Our team of experts can provide personalized assistance for complex construction projects.
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