Asphalt Weight Calculator
Calculate the weight of asphalt based on volume measurements. Convert between cubic yards, cubic feet, and tons with our easy-to-use calculator.
Asphalt Weight Conversion Guide
Understanding Asphalt Weight
Asphalt is typically sold by weight (tons or tonnes) rather than volume. Understanding how to convert between volume and weight measurements is essential for accurate project planning and material ordering.
Key Conversion Factors:
- •1 cubic yard of asphalt ≈ 2 tons (4,000 lbs)
- •1 cubic meter of asphalt ≈ 2.4 tonnes (2,400 kg)
- •1 ton of asphalt ≈ 0.5 cubic yards
- •1 tonne of asphalt ≈ 0.42 cubic meters
Asphalt Density Variations
The density of asphalt can vary based on the specific mix design, aggregate size, and oil content. This calculator uses standard density values, but actual values may differ.
Common Asphalt Mix Densities:
- •Dense-graded mix: 145-150 lbs/ft³ (2,322-2,403 kg/m³)
- •Open-graded mix: 140-145 lbs/ft³ (2,243-2,322 kg/m³)
- •Stone matrix asphalt: 150-155 lbs/ft³ (2,403-2,483 kg/m³)
- •Cold mix asphalt: 135-140 lbs/ft³ (2,163-2,243 kg/m³)
Weight to Coverage Conversion
Understanding how much area a certain weight of asphalt will cover is important for project planning. The coverage depends on the thickness of the asphalt layer.
| Thickness | Coverage per Ton | Coverage per Tonne | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 inch (2.5 cm) | 162 sq ft | 15 sq m | Thin overlay |
| 2 inches (5 cm) | 81 sq ft | 7.5 sq m | Residential driveway |
| 3 inches (7.5 cm) | 54 sq ft | 5 sq m | Standard driveway |
| 4 inches (10 cm) | 40.5 sq ft | 3.8 sq m | Commercial use |
Frequently Asked Questions
A cubic yard of asphalt typically weighs about 2 tons (4,000 pounds). This can vary slightly depending on the specific mix design, aggregate size, and oil content. Dense-graded mixes may weigh slightly more, while open-graded mixes might weigh less.
Asphalt is sold by weight (tons) rather than volume (cubic yards) because weight is more consistent and easier to measure accurately. The volume of asphalt can change with temperature and compaction, while weight remains constant. Asphalt plants have scales that precisely measure the weight loaded onto trucks, making it the industry standard for pricing and billing.
To calculate the tons of asphalt needed for a driveway, first determine the volume by multiplying the length × width × thickness (in feet). Then divide by 27 to convert to cubic yards. Finally, multiply by 2 to convert to tons. For example, a 50 ft × 20 ft driveway with 3 inches (0.25 ft) thickness would need: (50 × 20 × 0.25) ÷ 27 × 2 = 18.5 tons of asphalt.
Several factors affect asphalt density: (1) Aggregate type and size - larger, denser aggregates increase overall density; (2) Binder content - more asphalt binder can decrease density; (3) Air void content - fewer air voids means higher density; (4) Compaction level - proper compaction increases density; (5) Mix design - different mix types (dense-graded, open-graded, etc.) have different densities.
This calculator provides a good estimate for planning purposes, but actual asphalt weights may vary based on the specific mix design and density. We use standard density values (145 lbs/cubic foot or 2,322 kg/cubic meter) for our calculations. For the most accurate results, we recommend consulting with your asphalt supplier about the specific density of their mix and adding 5-10% extra for waste.
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