Asphalt tonnage calculator is used to calculate tons, weight and quantity of asphalt.
When you only know the dimensions of your driveway, parking lot, road or paving area, it can be frustrating to determine how many tons of asphalt you need.
If you have a length and width, then you need to take into account the thickness, density, volume and unit conversions of the asphalt before a tonnage estimate can be made.
This is exactly what an Asphalt Tonnage Calculator can aid you with.
We've designed our calculator to simplify the process of estimating asphalt tons, weight, volume, material quantity, coverage and cost related to your measurements and project.
From homeowners who are planning an asphalt driveway, to contractors who are preparing a preliminary estimate, to just those who are asking the question, "How many tons of asphalt do I need?," this guide explains how asphalt tonnage is calculated and what can influence the final tonnage.
What Is an Asphalt Tonnage Calculator?
An Asphalt Tonnage Calculator is an Internet program that can be used to estimate the number of tons of asphalt needed for a paving project.
Typically, the paved area and thickness of the asphalt will be the first set of parameters used to calculate the volume.
The volume is thus computed and converted to an estimated weight by using the density of the asphalt.
The basic process is as follows:
Area to Thickness to Volume to Weight to Tonnage
For a simple rectangular area:
Length × Width = Area
Then:
Area × Thickness = Volume
Then:
Volume × Density = Weight
Finally, in short tons (US):
Weight ÷ 2,000 = Tons
When all the steps are laid out, this may sound complicated, but an asphalt tonnage calculator will take care of the conversions for you online.
How Does an Asphalt Tonnage Calculator Work?
Some critical inputs for the calculation.
Area
The surface area you are going to pave.
For a rectangle:
Length × Width = Area
Thickness
The amount of material needed vertically is based on the thickness of the asphalt.
The thicker the layer of asphalt, the more asphalt needed.
Density
The volume (density) is converted to weight.
A typical planning density for hot-mix asphalt is approximately 145 lb/ft³, but the actual density may differ depending on the type of mix and the project requirements.
Unit Conversion
The calculator should use the same units for measurements.
For instance, if the area is in square feet and the thickness is in inches, the thickness will also need to be converted to feet before the cubic feet is calculated.
Tonnage
After the estimated weight is determined it can be converted to US tons.
This is especially helpful as asphalt is often sold and delivered by weight.
How to Calculate Asphalt Tonnage
The simple formula used in the United States is:
Tons = Area × Thickness in Feet × Density ÷ 2,000
If thickness is given in inches:
Thickness in feet = Thickness in inches / 12
Thus, you can compute tonnage of asphalt using:
Tons = Area × (Thickness ÷ 12) × Density ÷ 2,000
Let's say that you have a driveway area of 600 square feet and are trying to estimate the tonnage for a 3" thickness.
First convert thickness:
3 ÷ 12 = 0.25 feet
Then calculate volume:
600 × 0.25 = 150 cubic feet
Using 145 lb/ft³:
150 × 145 = 21,750 pounds
Convert to US tons:
21,750 ÷ 2,000 = 10.875 tons
Therefore, the theoretical estimate is some sort of:
10.88 US tons
This actual amount may vary with density, compaction, waste, asphalt mix and project conditions.
How Many Tons of Asphalt Do I Need?
There is no single answer to this question.
The tonnage of asphalt required will be primarily dependent on:
- Total paved area
- Asphalt thickness
- Asphalt density
The quantity required may also be influenced by other real-life considerations.
The amount of asphalt that is needed for a 500 square foot driveway will be different than that required for a 2,000 square foot parking area.
Similarly, a two-inch layer of asphalt will use less material to cover the same area as a four-inch layer of asphalt.
That is why it is best to get an actual area and thickness measurement to answer the question how many tons of asphalt do I need? instead of going by a rule of thumb.
Have the measurements but not the tonnage? Use our Asphalt Tonnage Calculator to determine the quantity and thickness of your project in no time, then call an asphalt supplier.
Calculate the Tonnage of Asphalt Needed for a Driveway
One of the most frequent uses for tonnage calculations of asphalt is driveways.
Assume that your driveway is:
40 feet long
and:
12 feet wide
The total area is:
40 × 12 = 480 square feet
For a proposed thickness of 3 inches:
3 ÷ 12 = 0.25 feet
Volume:
480 × 0.25 = 120 cubic feet
Assuming a density of 145 lb/ft³:
120 × 145 = 17,400 pounds
Convert to tons:
17,400 ÷ 2,000 = 8.7 tons
So, the theoretical requirement is around 8.7 US tons.
This is merely representative of suggested driveway thickness.
The type of pavement that is required is related to soil, drainage, traffic, base conditions, climatic conditions, and other variables.
Asphalt Tonnage for 500 Square Feet
The asphalt tonnage calculator is designed to calculate the tonnage of asphalt required to cover an area of 500 square feet.
At 2 Inches
500 × (2 ÷ 12) × 145 ÷ 2,000
≈ 6.04 tons
At 3 Inches
500 × (3 ÷ 12) × 145 ÷ 2,000
≈ 9.06 tons
At 4 Inches
500 × (4 ÷ 12) × 145 ÷ 2,000
≈ 12.08 tons
All of these numbers demonstrate the significance of the thickness of asphalt.
The same tonnage required for any given thickness may vary substantially for a 500 square foot area.
Asphalt Tonnage for 1,000 Square Feet
The asphalt tonnage calculator is used to calculate the tonnage of asphalt needed for an area of 1000 square feet.
For a 1,000-square-foot area, using 145 lb/ft³:
2-Inch Asphalt
Approximately:
12.08 tons
3-Inch Asphalt
Approximately:
18.13 tons
4-Inch Asphalt
Approximately:
24.17 tons
These are theoretical calculations that are dependent on the assumed density.
Depending on the project, additional asphalt may be needed to compensate for compaction, irregular edges, waste and other issues and your actual quantity may vary depending on the density used by your supplier.
Asphalt Tonnage for 2,000 Square Feet
This asphalt tonnage calculator is for 2,000 square feet.
For a 2,000 sq.ft. project, with the same 145 lb/ft³ planning density:
2 Inches
Approximately:
24.17 tons
3 Inches
Approximately:
36.25 tons
4 Inches
Approximately:
48.33 tons
This shows the material requirements for a larger project area and how quickly they grow.
If the project is a large parking lot, or commercial project, a detailed material takeoff is recommended to verify the amount.
How Many Square Metres Will One Ton of Asphalt Cover?
A ton of asphalt will cover how many square metres?
This varies in accordance with the thickness of the asphalt.
Assuming a planning density of ~145 lb/ft³:
One ton of 1-inch thick would cover about:
160 square feet
At 2 inches:
80 square feet
At 3 inches:
53 square feet
At 4 inches:
40 square feet
The following are generalized theoretical coverage estimates.
Actual coverage may vary due to density, compaction, mix characteristics, waste and installation conditions.
Therefore, whenever someone says "one ton of asphalt covers X square feet," always ask:
At what thickness?
The coverage figure is incomplete if there is no thickness.
Asphalt Tonnage Per Square Foot
The amount of asphalt tonnage that can be used on each square foot of the pavement.
Asphalt tonnage can also be estimated based on the number of square feet.
With a planning density of 145 lb/ft3:
1 Inch
Approximately:
0.00604 tons per square foot
2 Inches
Approximately:
0.01208 tons per square foot
3 Inches
Approximately:
0.01813 tons per square foot
4 Inches
Approximately:
0.02417 tons per square foot
This should give some insight as to why tonnage increases with thickness even if the surface area remains the same.
Asphalt Tonnage Per Square Yard
There are: in one square yard:
9 square feet
Assuming a density of 145 lb/ft³:
The approximate tonnage at 1” is:
0.0544 tons per square yard
At 2 inches:
0.1088 tons per square yard
At 3 inches:
0.1631 tons per square yard
At 4 inches:
0.2175 tons per square yard
The numbers in these figures are based on assumed density and are for estimation.
Asphalt Tonnage Per Cubic Yard
There are: _ in a cubic yard.
27 cubic feet
Using 145 lb/ft³:
27 × 145 = 3,915 pounds
Convert to US tons:
3,915 ÷ 2,000 = 1.96 tons
Thus, a cubic yard of asphalt would have about 1.96 US tons of weight, given that density.
That is the reason you will see the amount of asphalt sold in either tons or cubic yards.
Asphalt Density and Tonnage
Converted from density.
The volume of tonnage in asphalt as well as the density and mass of the asphalt.
One of the critical factors in calculating is density.
An accepted planning figure is about:
145 lb/ft³
This does not indicate, however, that every asphalt mixture has a specific weight of 145 lbs. per cubic foot.
The actual density may vary with:
- Aggregate
- Mix design
- Binder content
- Air voids
- Compaction
- Material characteristics
Use the provided density by your asphalt supplier if one is provided for a more project-specific calculation.
This is especially crucial for large-scale commercial projects, where a slight variation in density can make a substantial impact on the overall tonnage.
How Thickness Changes Asphalt Tonnage
Asphalt tonnage varies with thickness because of its specific gravity.Asphalt tonnage varies with thickness due to specific gravity.
The thicker, the more.
Theoretically, if the area is the same and thickness is doubled, then the volume is doubled.
For instance, if you're dealing with an area of 1,000 square feet.
The volume at 2 inches is:
1,000 × 2/12 = 166.67 cubic feet
At 4 inches:
1,000 × 4/12 = 333.33 cubic feet
The 4” layer will need about double the amount of the 2” layer.
This means that it is going to need about twice the amount of weight when the density remains the same.
This is the reason that thickness should always be considered in determining the tonnage of asphalt.
What Quantity of Asphalt Will I Need?
The calculator provides you with a theoretical amount.
Order sizes may be subject to change.
True paving jobs can include:
- Irregular shapes
- Curved edges
- Measurement errors
- Material waste
- Compaction
- Grade variations
- Construction conditions
Some projects opt for an allowance, typically 5-10% depending on circumstances.
There is no standard percentage that is right for all projects, however.
A small rectangular driveway can be simpler to estimate compared to a large commercial parking lot with various sections and intricate borders.
Before ordering a lot of asphalt, you'll want to ask your supplier or paving contractor how much allowance they will accept.
Asphalt Tonnage vs Asphalt Weight
The differences between asphalt tonnage and asphalt weight.
The terms are related closely but with the use of different units.
Asphalt weight can be given in pounds or kilograms.
Asphalt tonnage is the same amount in tons.
For example:
20,000 pounds = 10 US tons
The important thing is to know which ton is being used.
In the US:
1 short ton = 2,000 pounds
In metric measurements:
1 metric tonne = 1,000 kilograms
These are not exact amounts.
Convert Between US Tons and Metric Tonnes
This is a very frequent point of confusion.
1 US ton, short is equal to:
2,000 pounds
1 metric tonne is equal to:
1,000 kilograms
A US short ton is about:
907.18 kilograms
Therefore:
1 metric tonne ≈ 1.102 US tons
and:
1 US ton ≈ 0.907 metric tonnes
When ordering asphalt internationally or comparing information from various websites, verify the unit prior to using the number.
Asphalt Tonnage and Cost
The tonnage and costs for asphalt.Asphalt tonnage and cost.
After determining an approximate tonnage, the approximate cost of the asphalt material can be calculated.
The fundamental equation is:
The estimated cost is the number of tons multiplied by the price per ton.
For example:
Estimated quantity:
15 tons
Price:
$120 per ton
Estimated material cost:
15 × $120 = $1,800
This is an estimated cost of asphalt material only.
A full paving job could also consist of:
- Delivery
- Labor
- Equipment
- Excavation
- Grading
- Base preparation
- Drainage
- Removal of old asphalt
- Compaction
- Other site work
However, don't assume that the number of tons times the asphalt price equals the price of a project.
Asphalt Tonnage for Parking Lots
Parking lots might need a lot more asphalt than driveways.
The fundamental formula is the same:
Area × Thickness × Density
But for commercial parking lots, more in-depth planning might be needed.
Considerations may be needed:
- Vehicle traffic
- Heavy trucks
- Parking layout
- Drainage
- Subgrade
- Base thickness
- Pavement structure
- Local regulations
A preliminary tonnage estimate can be made using an on-line calculator, but final commercial quantities can be obtained from the project plans and specifications.
Asphalt Tonnage for Roads
The volume of asphalt in road projects can be very large.
The length and width of the roadway are factors in calculating the surface area and the thickness of the pavement determines the volume.
However, road construction is much more complex than simply calculating the surface area.
The final pavement design is dependent on traffic loading, subgrade, drainage, pavement layers, climate and engineering specifications.
The asphalt tonnage calculator is a preliminary estimation tool, not a substitute for an engineered quantity calculation, for a road project.
Asphalt Tonnage for Irregular Areas
Calculate the tonnage of asphalt required for an irregular area.
Not all paving jobs are rectangular.
You may have:
- L-shaped driveways
- Curved parking areas
- Multiple road sections
- Extensions
- Islands
- Different pavement sections
One easy solution is to break the project up into smaller areas.
For example:
Area A = 500 sq ft
Area B = 300 sq ft
Area C = 200 sq ft
Total:
500 + 300 + 200 = 1,000 sq ft
If the thickness is uniform, then the total area can be used.
If the thickness varies from one part to another, compute each part and sum the tonnage.
Asphalt Tonnage for Various Thicknesses
In some cases, various depths of pavement may be needed for a project.
For example:
Section A: 500 sq ft at 3 inches
Section B: 500 sq ft at 4 inches
If you don't have a good reason to average the thickness, don't do it.
Rather, work out each part separately.
This provides a better estimation since not all sections are the same with respect to the amount of material in them.
Asphalt Tonnage and Compaction
Another reason for the possible difference between a calculator result and the final quantity used on a job is compaction.
Paving involves compaction of the asphalt to achieve the desired characteristics in the pavement.
The resulting compacted density and thickness may impact the correlation between the loose material and the finished pavement.
The quantities of materials should be calculated in accordance with the applicable mix design and construction specification for the professional works.
If the homeowner is just using the calculator to determine a ballpark of project size, it is important to realize the result is only an estimate.
Common Asphalt Tonnage Calculation Mistakes
There are some common mistakes made in calculating asphalt tonnage.Some common mistakes in asphalting tonnage are:
Forgetting Asphalt Thickness
Square footage isn't all that.
Using the Wrong Density
Different density results in different tonnages.
Mixing Inches and Feet
Convert thickness from inches to feet if the area is given in square feet.
Mixing Tons and Tonnes
Some students may confuse TONS and TONNES.Some students may mix up TONS and TONNES.
Always be sure to check the unit.
Ignoring Irregular Shapes
Divide larger areas into smaller ones.
Ordering the Exact Theoretical Quantity
Allowance may be required for real projects.
Treating Tonnage as Project Cost
Note that the material cost does not constitute the total installation cost.
Choosing Thickness Without Professional Advice
A calculator will display the effects of thickness on quantity, but not the proper pavement structure for your property.
When Using an Asphalt Tonnage Calculator, Is It Accurate?
All the information can be used to accurately make the mathematical calculation with the help of an asphalt tonnage calculator.
But, it is still an approximation.
Typically, the information and assumptions will be the largest factors.
For instance, if the assumed density differs from the actual asphalt density then the tonnage changes.
If this is not the actual compacted thickness, the thickness entered will be different and the quantity will change.
The final order can also vary if the project requires any extra material or has any irregularities in its shape or areas.
For this reason, the calculator should be used as a planning tool and major quantities verified with the asphalt supplier or the paving professional.
How to Get a Better Asphalt Tonnage Estimate
To achieve a better result, begin with proper measurements.
To determine the total paved area.To calculate the entire paved area.
Never estimate based on size of the property.
Calculate square yards of area to be asphalted.
Confirm the Thickness
Use the thickness that you need for your project.
Use Consistent Units
Convert measurements prior to calculating.
Always Use the Correct Density
Where provided by your supplier, use the mix density.
Divide Complex Areas
Work out an irregular part of a section separately.
Consider Material Allowance
Discuss waste and project needs with your supplier.
Ensure That the Final Order Is Correct
When ordering significant quantities of asphalt, confirm your estimate with the supplier's suggested quantity.
Asphalt Tonnage Calculator Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an asphalt tonnage calculator?
An asphalt tonnage calculator is used to calculate the number of tons of asphalt needed for a paving project by multiplying the area, thickness and density.
How many tons are in a square yard of asphalt?
To convert to US tons, multiply the area x the thickness of the asphalt (in feet) x the density of the asphalt and then divide the result (in pounds) by 2,000.
If the area is 500 square feet, how many tons of asphalt will it take?
At 145 lb/ft³, approximately 6.04 tons are needed at 2 inches, 9.06 tons at 3 inches, and 12.08 tons at 4 inches.
If I have 1000 sq.ft. how many tons of asphalt do I need?
At 145 lb/ft³, approximately 12.08 tons are needed at 2 inches, 18.13 tons at 3 inches, and 24.17 tons at 4 inches.
If I need 2,000 sq.ft of asphalt how many tons of it will that take?
At 145 lb/ft³, approximately 24.17 tons are needed at 2 inches, 36.25 tons at 3 inches, and 48.33 tons at 4 inches.
How many square yards of asphalt are in a ton?
The amount of material that can be spread from one ton is theoretically 80 square feet at 2 inches and 40 square feet at 4 inches at an assumed density of 145 lb/ft³.
What is the weight of 1 cubic yard of asphalt?
The weight of 1 yard of gravel is about 3,915 pounds or 1.96 US tons per cubic yard at 145 lb/ft³.
How many cubic yards of asphalt are in one ton?
One US ton of rock at 145 lb/ft³ is about 0.51 cubic yards.
Does tonnage change due to the density of the asphalt?
Yes. The weight and, consequently, calculated tonnage is directly influenced by the density.
Does thickness of the asphalt make a difference to tonnage?
Yes. The thicker it is, the more asphalt is produced and the greater the tonnage of asphalt produced.
Asphalt tons and tonnes are the same?
No. There are 2,000 pounds in a US short ton, and 1,000 kilograms in a metric tonne.
What is the cost of ton of asphalt?
The cost of asphalt is determined by a number of factors, including the type of asphalt mix, the quantity of asphalt purchased, delivery requirements and market conditions. Use a up to date supplier quote for actual pricing.
Yes, in fact the easiest way to find asphalt costs is to determine the tonnage.
Yes. Estimate the cost of the material by multiplying the estimated number of tons by the current price per ton.
Do I need to add additional tonnage of asphalt to the total tonnage?
Depending on the project, it may be appropriate to pay an allowance. Inquire from your supplier/contractor how much is required for waste, compaction, irregular areas, etc.
Yes, an asphalt tonnage calculator can be used to estimate the amount of tonnage necessary for a driveway.
Yes. The most common application of an asphalt calculator is driveway tonnages.
Is it appropriate to use for a parking lot?
Yes, for a preliminary estimate. For large commercial projects, the specifications for the project should be consulted.
Yes, it can be used to build a road.
Yes, for approximate calculations. Detailed Engineering and Quantity Takeoffs for major road projects are required.
Why isn't my tonnage estimate the same as my contractor's estimate?
The results can vary depending on the assumptions made regarding area, thickness, density, compaction, waste, or scope of the project. Inquire with the contractor about the assumptions made.
What density will I need for my asphalt?
A planning value of approximately 145 lb/ft³ is typical; the planning value will vary with the types of asphalt mix. Where there is supplier or project-specific information, use this.
Does the tonnage of asphalt calculated mean I should order that EXACT amount of asphalt?
No. This is an initial approximation. Discuss the final order quantity with the supplier (asphalt company) or the paving contractor.
Use Our Asphalt Tonnage Calculator
To calculate the asphalt tonnage you need, use our Asphalt Tonnage Calculator.
There's no need to convert square feet to cubic feet, inches to feet, pounds to tons and volume to weight just to answer one simple question:
How many tons of asphalt will I need?
We've created an Asphalt Tonnage Calculator for just that reason.
Input your project measurements, verify asphalt thickness, and use the tonnages as a starting point for planning your material order.
It may be helpful for:
- Residential driveways
- Parking lots
- Private roads
- Walkways
- Paving projects
- Preliminary contractor estimates
- Asphalt material budgeting
Keep in mind that the actual quantity of asphalt will vary with density, mix, compaction, waste, project shape and construction conditions.
Always double check the actual amount with your asphalt supplier, paving contractor or qualified professional for large jobs.
Before ordering asphalt, you can use the tonnage calculator to determine how many tons of material you'll need.
When ordering asphalt without a good estimate of how much you need, you may be in for a surprise when you get the bill.
It is not necessary to perform all the calculations by hand.
Input your area and thickness in our Asphalt Tonnage Calculator and receive a fast quote of the tons your paving job may need.
Before you order, compare quotes or build a project budget, it pays to know your tonnage because it can save you money and headaches down the road.