Asphalt Calculator
Calculate the amount of asphalt needed for your paving project in tons
Quick presets:
Enter local asphalt price to estimate total cost
Asphalt Needed (with % wastage)
tons
Area
Exact Tons
before wastage
Volume
cubic yards
Volume
cubic feet
Estimated Material Cost
Based on /ton
Calculation Summary
| Area Shape | |
| Total Area | |
| Thickness | |
| Asphalt Type | |
| Density Used | lbs/cu ft |
| Wastage Factor | % |
| Total Asphalt Required | tons |
Important Notes:
- This is an estimate - confirm with your supplier for exact quantities
- Most suppliers have minimum order requirements
- Don't forget to calculate your gravel base separately
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About Asphalt Calculator
What is an Asphalt Calculator?
An asphalt calculator helps you estimate the amount of asphalt material needed for paving projects. Whether you're paving a driveway, parking lot, or road, this tool calculates the tonnage required based on your project dimensions and the type of asphalt you're using.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select Unit System: Choose between Imperial (feet/inches) or Metric (meters/centimeters)
- Choose Area Shape: Select rectangle, circle, or triangle based on your project shape
- Enter Dimensions: Input length, width, radius, or other measurements as applicable
- Set Thickness: Enter the desired asphalt thickness or use quick presets
- Select Asphalt Type: Choose your asphalt mix type (affects density)
- Add Wastage Factor: Account for 5-10% extra material for waste
- Enter Cost: Optionally add price per ton to estimate total cost
Understanding the Formula
Imperial Formula:
Volume (cubic feet) = Area (sq ft) × Thickness (inches) ÷ 12
Weight (pounds) = Volume × Density (lbs/cu ft)
Tons = Weight ÷ 2000
Simplified:
Tons = (Area × Thickness × Density) ÷ 24,000
Asphalt Density by Type
| Asphalt Type | Density (lbs/cu ft) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) | 145 | General paving, driveways |
| Dense-Graded Asphalt | 150 | Heavy traffic areas |
| Cold Mix Asphalt | 135 | Patching, repairs |
| Recycled Asphalt (RAP) | 120 | Eco-friendly projects |
Recommended Thickness Guidelines
| Project Type | Thickness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Driveway | 2-3 inches | Light vehicle traffic |
| Commercial Parking Lot | 3-4 inches | Regular vehicle traffic |
| Heavy Traffic Road | 4-6 inches | Trucks and high volume |
| Overlay/Resurfacing | 1.5-2 inches | Over existing pavement |
Area Calculation Formulas
Rectangle:
Area = Length × Width
Circle:
Area = π × Radius²
Triangle:
Area = (Base × Height) ÷ 2
Tips for Accurate Estimation
Measuring Your Project
- Measure the longest and widest points for irregular shapes
- Break complex areas into simple shapes and add them together
- Use a measuring wheel for large areas
- Mark boundaries clearly before measuring
Accounting for Waste
- 5%: Simple rectangular areas with clean edges
- 7-10%: Irregular shapes or areas with obstacles
- 10-15%: Complex projects with curves or multiple sections
Ordering Tips
- Always order slightly more than calculated (5-10% extra)
- Asphalt is sold by the ton (2,000 lbs)
- Most suppliers have minimum order quantities
- Schedule delivery when crew and equipment are ready
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does asphalt cost per ton?
Asphalt prices vary by region and type, typically ranging from $100-$200 per ton for material only. Installation labor adds $2-$5 per square foot.
How thick should my driveway asphalt be?
Residential driveways typically need 2-3 inches of asphalt over a proper gravel base (4-8 inches of compacted aggregate).
What's the difference between hot mix and cold mix asphalt?
Hot mix asphalt (HMA) is heated and must be applied hot. It's more durable and used for permanent installations. Cold mix is pre-mixed and can be applied at any temperature, mainly for repairs and temporary patches.
How many square feet does a ton of asphalt cover?
At 2 inches thick, one ton of hot mix asphalt covers approximately 80-100 square feet. At 3 inches thick, coverage drops to about 55-65 square feet.
Should I include the gravel base in my calculation?
No, this calculator is for asphalt only. The gravel/aggregate base layer is calculated separately and typically needs to be 1.5-2 times the asphalt thickness.
Important Considerations
- Actual asphalt density may vary by manufacturer and mix design
- Compaction reduces volume by 25-30% (calculations account for compacted density)
- Temperature affects workability - asphalt cools quickly in cold weather
- Proper base preparation is crucial for longevity
- Consider drainage slope (1-2% for water runoff)
Pro Tip: Get quotes from multiple suppliers and ask about their specific mix density for the most accurate calculation. Most suppliers can provide tonnage estimates if you give them your project dimensions.