Use the toggles below to set typical values for your project type.
Material Required:
Gravel: 0 Tonnes
Asphalt: 0 Tonnes
This tool calculates the required asphalt tonnage based on the industry-standard density of 2.4 metric tonnes per cubic meter (approximately 150 lbs per cubic foot). This is the formula professional estimators use to order materials from the plant.
A common scam in the paving industry is "shorting" the job—charging you for 3 inches of asphalt but only installing 2 inches. By calculating the tonnage yourself, you can ask your contractor to see the Weigh Tickets from the asphalt plant. If the tickets don't match your calculation, you may be paying for material you didn't get.
Asphalt compresses when rolled. To get a finished thickness of 3 inches, the contractor must lay approximately 4 inches of loose asphalt. Our calculator accounts for the finished, compacted thickness you expect. Always ensure your contract specifies "Compacted Thickness".
Disclaimer: The results provided by the AsphaltU Calculator are estimates based on national averages and standard industry material densities. Material costs, labor rates, and local taxes vary by region.