This Asphalt Weight Calculator is used to calculate the weight, tonnage and volume of asphalt.This is the Asphalt Weight Calculator that is used to calculate the Asphalt Weight, Tonnage & Volume.
When you are thinking of having an asphalt driveway, parking lot, road, walkway, or asphalt paving project, some of the first questions you may ask is how much does asphalt weigh?
A knowledge of the area alone is not sufficient. While you might be familiar with your project size in square feet such as 500, 1,000 or 10,000 square feet, you still need to know the asphalt thickness and material density to determine the actual weight.
That's where an Asphalt Weight Calculator comes in handy.
The calculator helps you calculate asphalt weight, asphalt tonnage, asphalt volume and material quantity without having to do complicated conversions by hand.
From homeowners looking to estimate the amount of asphalt needed for a driveway to contractors preparing a preliminary estimate of materials, to anyone simply wanting to better understand how asphalt is weighed, this guide does just that.
What Is an Asphalt Weight Calculator?
Asphalt Weight Calculator is a free online weight calculator tool to calculate the weight of the asphalt from its volume and density.
Simple basic relationship:
Weight of Asphalt = Volume of Asphalt × Density of Asphalt
After the estimated weight is known, it can be translated in tons or tonnes as per the system of units used.
This is helpful since asphalt is often sold and delivered by weight.
For instance, if you require 5 cubic yards of asphalt, this does not necessarily indicate how many tons you require. The approximate density of the asphalt material needs to be known.
A weight calculator puts these measurements into context, which helps you to come up with a more meaningful estimate.
Asphalt weight calculations are necessary for many reasons.
People may have to find the weight of asphalt for a number of reasons.
You may be:
- Working with the asphalt supplier to place an order for the asphalt
- Estimating delivery requirements
- Planning a driveway
To determine the number of cars in a parking lot.
These costs were developed for use in calculating the amount of road paving material.
- Comparing contractor estimates
- Estimating material costs
- Checking the quantity of paving.
- Calculating the square footage of the area to be repaved in tons of asphalt.
- Planning transportation
The estimated weight is especially crucial when purchasing asphalt by the ton.
For instance, a contractor may inform you that the amount of asphalt needed for a project is around 20 tons. However, if you only worked out the volume of the project, you might not know where that number came from.
A weight calculation of the asphalt helps to clarify the situation.
Want to know the amount of weight in your asphalt volume? Use our Asphalt Weight Calculator to quickly and easily input your project details to obtain an estimate without having to manually convert weights.**
The asphalt weight calculator automatically generates the weight of asphalt based on the data you enter.
Usually, there are two key properties in the calculation:
Volume
and
Density
Volume indicates the amount of asphalt used in cubic feet.
Density is a measure of the mass of a unit volume of material.
The basic formula is the following:
Weight = Volume × Density
For instance, you may have 100 cubic feet of Asphalt with an estimated density of 145 lb per cubic foot.
It would be calculated as:
100 × 145 = 14,500 pounds
To convert to US tons:
14,500 ÷ 2,000 = 7.25 tons
Thus the estimated weight of the asphalt would be around 14,500 pounds or 7.25 United States tons.
This is a simplified example to illustrate. This is only a general indication of the density of the asphalt mix and should be used based on project information, if available.
What Is Asphalt Density?
Asphalt density is a measure of the weight of a given volume of asphalt.
It is usually measured in units of:
- Pounds per cubic foot
- cubic yards of soil per cubic yard of soil volume.
- grams per cubic meter
Per unit volume of ground, the amount of soil in tons.
One reason why density is important is that it enables volume to be converted to weight of the asphalt.
The typical planning value for HMA is approximately 145 pounds per cubic foot (pcf); actual densities may differ depending on the mix and project requirements.
This would make the material have a density of 145 lbs. per cubic foot at that assumed density.
But it cannot be presumed that all asphalt mixtures will have the same density.
The final density may vary with different types of aggregate materials, mix designs, amount of binder, and compaction conditions.
When working on a large project, use density provided by your asphalt supplier or project documents, if available.
The weight of asphalt per cubic foot varies depending on the type of asphalt used.
Asphalt has a density of about 145 lbs per cubic foot, therefore, one cubic foot of asphalt weighs:
145 pounds
That is about:
65.8 kilograms
This is a helpful planning number, but not a value that can be used for all asphalt mixtures.
Use the density specified in the project if a different density is given.
For instance, a given volume will weigh more if the actual density is greater than 145 lb/ft³.
If the density is less, the same volume of the material will weigh less.
The weight of 1 cubic yard of asphalt is approximately 2,875 pounds.
A cubic yard is equal to:
27 cubic feet
Assuming a density of 145 lbs per ft3:
27 × 145 = 3,915 pounds
Thus, one cubic yard would weigh about:
3,915 pounds
That is approximately:
1.96 US tons
This is handy if someone provides you with a number of cubic yards of asphalt, but your supplier charges you by the ton.
Please note that the actual value will vary depending upon the density chosen.
What is the weight of a ton of asphalt?
A U.S. short ton is:
2,000 pounds
Therefore, if a person requests 10 US tons of asphalt, this equates to:
20,000 pounds
But, the physical space taken up by those 10 tons will vary according to the density of the asphalt.
With a planning density of 145 lb/ft³, 10 tons would fill up about:
20,000 ÷ 145 = 137.93 cubic feet
To convert to cubic yards:
137.93 ÷ 27 = about 5.11 cubic yards
This illustrates the difference between weight and volume.
In the US short-ton system, a ton does equal 2,000 pounds, but the volume of a ton is dependent upon density.
This calculator determines the amount of tons of asphalt needed for a given area in square feet.
A lot of people don't want to use pounds.
They want to know:
How much asphalt in tons do I need?
Which makes it useful to convert the calculated weight into tons.
The conversion for basic use in the USA is:
Tons = Pounds ÷ 2,000
For example:
15,000 pounds of asphalt:
15,000 ÷ 2,000 = 7.5 tons
If your answer is 25,000 pounds:
25,000 ÷ 2,000 = 12.5 tons
This makes it easier to communicate with the suppliers as the pricing and selling of asphalt is typically by ton.
Asphalt Weight Calculator in Metric Tonnes
In metric measurement, it might be necessary to calculate the weight of asphalt in metric tonnes.
1 metre tonne is the same as:
1,000 kilograms
Not to be confused with the US short ton.
A US short ton:
2,000 pounds ≈ 907.18 kilograms
A metric tonne:
1,000 kilograms ≈ 2,204.62 pounds
That means:
1 metric tonne ≠ 1 US ton
This is significant in comparing the amount of asphalt produced by various countries or suppliers.
Before ordering material always check if your supplier is using US tons or metric tonnes.
How to Calculate Asphalt Weight From Volume
If the amount of asphalt is already known then it is a fairly simple calculation.
Use:
Weight = Volume × Density
For instance, if you have a project that is 200 cubic feet of asphalt.
The density of water is assumed to be 145 lb/ft³:
200 × 145 = 29,000 pounds
Convert to US tons:
29,000 ÷ 2,000 = 14.5 tons
Thus the estimated amount is:
29,000 pounds
or:
14.5 US tons
If your project is in cubic yards, convert the cubic yards into cubic feet:
Cubic Yards × 27 = Cubic Feet
Multiply by the density afterwards.
How to Calculate Asphalt Weight From Area
At times, the volume of asphalt is not known yet.
Only the surface area and the intended thickness may be known.
If so, you need to find the volume first.
If an area is rectangular:
Volume = Area × Thickness
Be sure that the thickness is in the same unit as the area.
If the area is in square feet and the thickness is in inches, convert inches to feet, for instance.
Three inches equals:
3 ÷ 12 = 0.25 feet
If the project area is 1000 sq.ft. :
1,000 × 0.25 = 250 cubic feet
Using 145 lb/ft³:
250 × 145 = 36,250 pounds
Convert to US tons:
36,250 ÷ 2,000 = 18.125 tons
Thus, under the above assumptions, an area of 1,000 sq.ft., at 3 inches thickness, would need about 18.1 tons.
Asphalt Weight Calculator for Driveways
One of the most frequently used applications for an asphalt weight calculator is for driveways.
When planning a driveway, the starting point is typically:
- Length
- Width
- Asphalt thickness
For example:
40 feet × 12 feet = 480 square feet
If 3" of thickness is desired:
3 ÷ 12 = 0.25 feet
Volume:
480 × 0.25 = 120 cubic feet
At 145 lb/ft³:
120 × 145 = 17,400 pounds
That equals:
8.7 US tons
This is an initial approximation, based on assumed density.
Specific driveway needs may vary due to the type of asphalt mix, base, compaction, site conditions, etc.
**Planning a driveway and wondering how much asphalt it will weigh? Apply the calculator to your own dimensions, rather than some random number.
What is the weight of the asphalt in 500 square feet?
Let's say that you need 500 square feet of paving.
At 2 inches thick:
500 × (2 ÷ 12) = 83.33 cubic feet
Using 145 lb/ft³:
83.33 × 145 = about 12,083 pounds
That equals approximately:
6.04 US tons
At 3 inches thick:
500 × (3 ÷ 12) = 125 cubic feet
Weight:
125 × 145 = 18,125 pounds
That equals:
9.06 US tons
At 4 inches thick:
500 × (4 ÷ 12) = 166.67 cubic feet
Weight:
166.67 × 145 = about 24,167 pounds
That equals:
12.08 US tons
The examples clearly demonstrate the effect of thickness on asphalt weight.
Weight of Asphalt for 1000 sq ft
At various thicknesses per 1,000 sq.ft. with 145lbs/ft3:
2 Inches
Estimated weight:
24,167 pounds
Approximately:
12.08 tons
3 Inches
Estimated weight:
36,250 pounds
Approximately:
18.13 tons
4 Inches
Estimated weight:
48,333 pounds
Approximately:
24.17 tons
The figures are based on the assumed density and are theoretical.
The results will vary if your supplier supplies a different density.
Weight of Asphalt Per Square Foot.
Weight per square foot is not fixed as the thickness of the asphalt varies.
1 square foot of asphalt at 1” thick does not weigh nearly as much as 1 square foot of asphalt at 4” thick.
Assuming a density of 145 lb/ft³:
At 1 inch:
145 ÷ 12 = about 12.08 pounds per square foot
At 2 inches:
Approximately 24.17lbs/ft²
At 3 inches:
Approximately 36,25 lbs/ft2.
At 4 inches:
Approx. 48.33 lb/sq.ft.
These are some useful values when considering the thickness and weight of asphalt.
Asphalt Weight Per Square Yard
One square yard is the same size as:
9 square feet
With the same planning density of 145 lb/ft³:
At 1 inch:
Approximately 108.75lbs of force per square yard
At 2 inches:
Approximately 217.5 lbs. per yard.
At 3 inches:
Approximately, 326.25 lbs/yd.
At 4 inches:
Approximately 435 lbs/yd.
Again, these numbers are based on the density assumption.
The density of asphalt is typically expressed as weight per cubic meter.
Cubic meters can be used in metric projects instead of cubic feet.
To calculate weight:
Weight = Volume × Density
When the density is expressed in kg/m3 multiply the volume (in m3) by the density.
For instance, when the density is 2,330kg/m³ and the volume is 10m³:
10 × 2,330 = 23,300 kg
That equals:
23.3 metric tonnes
If accuracy is required, the exact density should be specified by the asphalt mix or in the specification of the project.
Asphalt Density and Compaction
A key factor that can cause quantities of asphalt in the real world to be different than basic calculator quantities is compaction.
Installation involves placing and compaction of asphalt.
The material may be compacted, causing the density of the material to vary.
This is important because the calculator may be based on a stated or assumed density, and, in actual field situations, different results may be obtained.
The density assumptions for professional projects should be based on mix design and project specifications.
Typically, if the calculator is used by homeowners for a preliminary estimate, they will not be responsible for detailed compaction calculations.
Rather, use the calculator to get a sense of the approximate amount and inquire with the paving company about the method used to calculate the actual amount needed.
Why Asphalt Mix Matters
Not all asphalts are created equal.
Various types of asphalt mixtures may be composed of varying amounts of aggregate and asphalt binder.
Those differences can impact density and thus weight.
Therefore, care should be exercised in comparing two estimates of asphalt weight when the two estimates are based on different assumptions of the asphalt density.
For instance, some calculations use 145 lb/ft³, while some use different densities; then the estimated tonnage may not be the same, even if the area and thickness are the same.
For accurate quantities, refer to the actual supplier of asphalt or to an approved mix design.
Asphalt weight is not the same as asphalt volume.Asphalt weight is different from asphalt volume.
Both of these terms may be mistaken for each other.
Volume is the amount of space the asphalt takes up.
Weight is information that indicates the weight of that quantity of asphalt.
For instance, you may have:
5 yards of asphalt
That is a volume.
You can estimate weight of those 5 cubic yards using a density assumption.
At 145 lb/ft³:
5 × 27 × 145 = 19,575 pounds
That equals approximately:
9.79 US tons
Thus it is possible to describe the same material either in terms of volume or in terms of weight.
Asphalt Weight is the same as Asphalt Tonnage.Asphalt Weight equals Asphalt Tonnage.
The Asphalt Weight and Tonnage are the same quantity, but expressed in different units.
Weight could be measured using:
- Pounds
- Kilograms
Tonnage can be measured in:
- US tons
- Metric tonnes
For example:
20,000 pounds = 10 US tons
But:
20,000 pounds ≈ 9.07 metric tonnes
Always be sure of the system of measure being used.
The weight of the asphalt and the cost of the material.
The weight of the asphalt is another factor that can be used to estimate the cost of the material.
If the price of asphalt is given by the ton:
The estimated cost is the number of tons multiplied by the price per ton.
If you estimate your quantity will be 10 tons with a price of $120 per ton, for instance:
10 × $120 = $1,200
The cost of the materials is the estimated amount.
It does not necessarily contain:
- Delivery
- Labor
- Equipment
- Excavation
- Grading
- Base preparation
- Drainage
- Removal
- Installation
The price of the paving job can thus be significantly more expensive than the cost of the asphalt material.
The volume of one ton of asphalt in cubic yards is 20.8.
With an assumed density of 145 lb/ft3:
One cubic yard:
27 cubic feet
Weight:
27 × 145 = 3,915 pounds
US tons:
3,915 ÷ 2,000 = 1.9575 tons
Thus, one cubic yard is about:
1.96 US tons
This is a good rule of thumb computation, but the actual conversion will vary according to the density of the asphalt mix.
How many cubic yards can be poured from a ton of asphalt?
The reverse calculation can also be of help.
At 145 lb/ft³:
One US ton:
2,000 pounds
Volume:
2,000 ÷ 145 = 13.79 cubic feet
Convert to cubic yards:
13.79 ÷ 27 = about 0.51 cubic yards
Thus, a US ton is roughly:
0.51 cubic yards
The density assumption was used for the purpose of this example.
Again, volume will change as density varies.
What is the weight of a truck load of asphalt?
Weight of an asphalt truck load is determined by the type of truck and the maximum legal load allowed by law.
There is no universal weight for a truckload.
The capacity of the truck may be different depending on:
- Truck type
- Bed size
- Local regulations
- Road restrictions
- Payload capacity
- Distance
- Material density
When ordering asphalt for a large project, the asphalt supplier should be able to provide you with information on the amount of material that can be hauled in each load.
Your calculator estimation might help you understand an approximate total quantity, and the supplier will decide practically on the delivery arrangements.
When making a weight estimate, do I need to add additional asphalt to the calculation?
A calculated weight is a theoretical weight normally.
Allowance may be needed due to actual paving projects due to:
- Waste
- Irregular shapes
- Measurement differences
- Compaction
- Edge conditions
- Grade changes
- Handling
Depending on the project, a small extra allowance may be used, but there's no set percentage that can be applied to any driveway or paving project.
If you are getting a big order for material, consult with your supplier or paving company about what allowance they suggest.
Don't put on too much because of fear of running out.
Your purchases can add up if you order too much.
Common Asphalt Weight Calculation Mistakes
Don't use the wrong density.Do not use the incorrect density.
The estimated weight is directly related to the density.
Forgetting Thickness
Weight of asphalt cannot be determined with area alone.
Mixing Units
Appropriate conversion between feet, inches, meters and centimeters.
Confusing Tons and Tonnes
The unit of weight for the U.S. is ton, and for the metric system is tonne.
Ignoring Compaction
Conditions in the field and theoretical volume may vary.
This is a guide for using generic numbers in a major project.This is a guide for using generic numbers for a major project.
A planning density might be suitable for a quick estimate but shouldn't be used in lieu of project-specific information.
You can order directly from an online estimate.It is possible to order directly from an online estimate.
For important orders, always check with supplier.
The density of all types of asphalt is the same.All types of asphalt have the same weight.
The density of a mix may vary depending on the type of mix.
An Asphalt Weight Calculator is accurate?
An asphalt weight calculator can have mathematical accuracy when running it, depending on the value that is entered and the assumption that was used.
The estimate is only as accurate as those inputs, however.
The answer will vary if the area, thickness or density is wrong.
The actual amount may also be influenced by real-world factors like compaction, type of asphalt mix, waste, and site conditions.
An internet-based calculator is extremely helpful for simple planning.
If working on a large commercial or engineering project, use the calculator as a rough guide, and check the amount with project details and qualified professionals.
What is the weight of asphalt on a cubic foot basis?What is the weight per cubic foot of asphalt?
What is an asphalt weight calculator?
The asphalt weight calculator is used to calculate the weight of asphalt from its volume and density. It can also convert the estimated weight to tons or tonne.
What is the weight of an asphalt?
Typically, planning density is approximately 145 pounds per cubic foot, depending on the type of asphalt mix and density used.
What is the weight of a cubic foot of asphalt?
If the density is assumed to be 145 lb/ft³, the weight of one cubic foot is about 145 lb.
What is the weight of a cubic yard of asphalt?
The weight of one cubic yard at 145 lb/ft³ is about 1.96 US tons.
If the density of asphalt is 4000 pounds per cubic yard, how many tons are in a cubic yard of asphalt?
With the assumed density of 145 lb/ft³, 1 cubic yard is about 1.96 US tons.
How many cubic yards of asphalt are in a ton?
One US ton of this weighs about 0.51 cubic yards at 145 lb/ft³.
How to estimate the weight of asphalt?
Asphalt density times asphalt volume. To convert to US tons, divide the result (in pounds) by 2,000.
What is the weight of asphalt per square foot?
To determine volume, multiply square footage by thickness of asphalt (in feet); weight is determined by multiplying volume by asphalt density.
What is the weight per square foot of asphalt?
This is thickness dependent. With an assumed density of 145 lb/ft³, one square foot of thickness will weigh approximately 12.08 pounds.
What is the weight of 2” asphalt?
2 inches of asphalt's weight is about 24.17 pounds per square foot, when the asphalt density is 145 lb/ft³.
What is the weight of 3-inch asphalt?
The asphalt is 3 inches thick and has a density of 145 lb/ft³, which is about 36.25 lb/ft² of asphalt.
What is the weight of 4" asphalt?
After measuring the weight of 4 inches of asphalt, the result is about 48.33 pounds per square foot, given that the value of 145 lb/ft³ is known.
What is the tonnage of asphalt per 1000 sqft?
The required amount at 145 lb/ft³ is about 12.08 tons at 2 inches, 18.13 tons at 3 inches and 24.17 tons at 4 inches.
The two terms, "ton" and "tonne," are equivalent.There is no difference between the terms asphalt ton and tonne.
No. A U.S. short ton is 2,000 pounds and a metric tonne is 1,000 kilograms.
Does the density of asphalt effect the weight?
Yes. The higher the density, the more weight for the same volume and the lower, the less weight.
Is there any difference in weight between different types and thicknesses of asphalt?
Yes. The thicker it is, the more asphalt it contains, and the more asphalt it contains, the more weight it will be estimated to contain.
How can I determine the weight of asphalt for a driveway?
Yes. Use the area of the driveway, thickness of asphalt and calculate with the proper density to estimate weight.
Is there a calculator where I can get a parking lot?
Yes. The calculator can be used to get a first approximation for the size of parking areas, but caution should be used when dealing with large commercial projects, which should be verified with project specifications.
Can I use an Asphalt Weight Calculator for Road Projects?
Yes, for preliminary material calculations. More detailed engineering and quantity calculations are needed for major road projects.
Why is the supplied asphalt weight different than mine?
The supplier could have a different asphalt density, mix specification, compacted quantity or measure of the project. If appropriate, inquire about the assumptions used by the supplier.
What should I use, 145 lbs per cubic foot or not?
A common planning assumption is 145 lb/ft³ but this is not universal. If project-specific density information is available, use this data.
When ordering should I order exactly the weight calculated?
Not necessarily. This is only an approximation. Always double check the order quantity with your asphalt supplier/paving contractor.
The weight of the asphalt used is calculated with our asphalt weight calculator.
There are a number of conversions that may be involved in making manual computations of asphalt weight.
Conversions might be required from square feet to cubic feet, from inches to feet, from volume to pounds and from pounds to tons.
It's quite a bit of effort required to make a calculation that should be easy.
Our Asphalt Weight Calculator amalgamates those steps for you to quickly estimate the weight of asphalt in your project.
Calculate a driveway, parking lot, road, walkway or any other paved surface—measure carefully and then use the calculator for a preliminary calculation.
Keep in mind that the calculator is a device used for estimating.
The actual weight of asphalt will vary with the type of asphalt, the density, compaction, thickness, site conditions, and project requirements.
When ordering major materials, always check the quantity with your asphalt supplier or experienced paving contractor.
Calculate Before You Order
There are many different ways that an asphalt estimate can go wrong, including ordering too little, ordering too much, or simply having a confusion over a contractor's estimate.
There is no need to make a guess.
Simply input your asphalt volume, area, thickness and other necessary data into our Asphalt Weight Calculator to obtain a clear estimate of the weight and tonnage of the asphalt.
Know the numbers before ordering the material – a few minutes calculation can save you a costly mistake later.