How this calculator works
This runs our asphalt and sealer calculators on one set of measurements. Asphalt weighs about 145 pounds per cubic foot once compacted, so the tons are the area times the thickness in feet times 145, divided by 2,000, with your waste allowance. The crushed stone base is the area times the base depth with 20% extra because loose stone compacts. Asphalt thicker than about 2 inches is laid in two lifts.
Worked example: a 50 × 12 ft driveway (600 ft²) with 3 inches of asphalt needs 11.4 tons with 5% extra, laid in 2 lifts, on 18.7 tons of crushed stone for a 6 inch base. Two coats of sealer later need 16.5 gallons. With 2 inches of asphalt it is 7.6 tons, with 4 inches 15.2 tons, and a 100 × 16 ft driveway needs 30.5 tons at 3 inches.
Asphalt for common driveways (3 in, 6 in base, 5% waste)
Tons of asphalt and of base stone.
| Driveway | Area | Asphalt | Base stone | Sealer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 × 10 ft | 300 ft² | 5.7 tons | 9.3 tons | 8.3 gal |
| 50 × 12 ft | 600 ft² | 11.4 tons | 18.7 tons | 16.5 gal |
| 80 × 12 ft | 960 ft² | 18.3 tons | 29.9 tons | 26.4 gal |
| 100 × 16 ft | 1600 ft² | 30.5 tons | 49.8 tons | 44.0 gal |
| 150 × 20 ft | 3000 ft² | 57.1 tons | 93.3 tons | 82.5 gal |
Tips before you buy
- The base matters more than the asphalt. Most failures come from a thin, wet or poorly compacted base, so ask the contractor about its depth.
- Asphalt goes down hot and has to be compacted within minutes, so it is a job for a crew with a roller. Compare quotes that state the thickness, the tons and the base.
- Slope the drive at least 1/4 inch per foot so water drains off. Standing water breaks asphalt up.
- Keep cars off a new surface for a couple of days, and avoid turning the wheels while stopped for the first few weeks, which scuffs the surface.
- Wait 6 to 12 months before the first sealcoat, so that the oils have a chance to cure.
Tools & materials for this project
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Frequently asked questions
How many tons of asphalt do I need for a 50x12 driveway?
A 50 × 12 ft driveway needs 7.6 tons at 2 inches thick, 11.4 tons at 3 inches and 15.2 tons at 4 inches, all with 5% extra.
How thick should an asphalt driveway be?
Two to three inches of compacted asphalt for cars, in one or two layers, and 3 to 4 inches for heavy loads. The base underneath matters more than the asphalt.
How much gravel base does an asphalt driveway need?
Four to eight inches of compacted crushed stone, depending on the soil. A 6 inch base for a 50 × 12 ft drive takes about 18.7 tons.
How much does a ton of asphalt cover?
At 3 inches thick, one ton covers about 55 ft². At 2 inches it covers about 83 ft².
When can I seal a new asphalt driveway?
Wait 6 to 12 months so the oils can cure. Two coats on a 50 × 12 ft drive need about 16.5 gallons of sealer.
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Related calculators & guides
Estimates only. Results assume standard materials and simple shapes. Supplier products vary, and the final call on quantity, structure and safety is yours. Check your local code and your supplier's guidance before ordering.